President of Sudanese Arabic Language Academy: "Serving Arabic Requires Sustained Institutional Planning"
Prominent Arabic linguist Dr. Bakri Mohammed Al-Haj, President of the Sudanese Arabic Language Academy, called for a shift from a temporary, celebratory approach in serving the Arabic language to a permanent, institutional one. This approach should be based on sound linguistic planning and a unified strategic vision among concerned institutions.
This came during a lecture he delivered as part of the celebration organized by the Arabic Language Department at the Islamic University of Minnesota - Main Center, on the occasion of World Arabic Language Day.
At the beginning of his speech, Dr. Al-Haj praised the university and its role in supporting the Arabic language, expressing his appreciation for the organizational efforts and those responsible for this event that brings together individuals interested in Arabic from diverse backgrounds.
The honored guest reviewed the journey of global celebrations for the Arabic language, noting that it has transformed from a fleeting occasion into an extended series of international events involving numerous institutions. He mentioned his personal participation in several of these prestigious events, such as the celebration marking the launch of the Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Language in Doha, which took 12 years to prepare, as well as events organized by the Organization of Islamic Cooperation in Jeddah.
Dr. Al-Haj touched upon the role of the Sudanese Arabic Language Academy (founded in 1990) as a model for active linguistic institutions. He explained that the Academy operates through 12 specialized scientific departments covering fields such as lexicography, translation, education, media, and the Sudanese linguistic environment with its diverse components, all aiming to serve and develop the Arabic language.
He emphasized that the real key to making a tangible impact on the reality of the language lies in unifying efforts and organized planning, away from randomness and improvisation. He stressed that any real progress in the journey to advance Arabic is contingent upon adopting serious and sustainable action plans.
In conclusion, Dr. Bakri extended his thanks to the university administration and the Arabic Language Department, with special appreciation for Dr. Suhair Sayed Khalil for her coordination efforts, wishing the university continued progress in serving the Arabic language.
It is worth noting that Dr. Bakri Mohammed Al-Haj is considered one of the foremost scholars of Arabic. He holds the position of President of the Sudanese Arabic Language Academy and is a member of several prestigious language academies, such as the Cairo Academy, the Makkah Al-Mukarramah Academy, and the Sharjah Academy. He also serves as the General Secretary for the State of Sudan in the working team for the Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Language project and has rich scientific contributions through numerous publications, research, and seminars.
