Opinion | Editorials
More learning centres needed
Efforts to offer Arabic language training are commendable but more needs to be done.
- Gulf News
- Published: 23:24 July 26, 2008
The outpouring of popular interest in registering for Arabic language classes, which is part of a recent Dubai Municipality initiative, reflects a need that should be fulfilled. Many non-Arabic speaking individuals are willing to learn the language if given the facility.
The recently launched free Arabic language course is being organised by the municipality in association with public libraries and is initiated as part of the Arabic Language Protection Campaign. The classes extend over a period of about three weeks and are conducted at various branches of the public libraries. According to municipality officials, all the classes are full and thus have been closed for any newcomers. "We are offering this course in response to requests made by many non-Arabic speakers and also due to shortage of Arabic books at our libraries, as well as books specifically written to teach the language," said Mohammad Jasem, manager of Dubai Public Libraries Department.
Since offering the Arabic language classes has drawn crowds of enthusiasts, the idea should be commended and encouraged, with the facilitation of more such classes. This would help build cultural bridges and establish an understanding about the local society and culture.
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