Launch of Arabic Language Courses for Non-Native Speakers

Minnesota, May 5, 2024 - On the occasion of the opening of the Language and Translation Center at the Islamic University of Minnesota, under the slogan "Training for Coexistence... The Ultimate Goal of Arabic Language Dissemination," the university has launched its first Arabic language courses for non-native speakers.

Dr. Imad Ahmed Al-Khatib, the certified linguistic skills trainer at the center, expressed his congratulations to the trainees and the university administration for this important step. He emphasized that the Arabic language has transcended its national boundaries and has spread globally, especially given the world's interest in Arab affairs, history, and culture. He affirmed that it is necessary for individuals to learn the Arabic language, even at a basic level, in order to understand Arab news and their religious, historical, and social heritage.

Al-Khatib explained that the Arabic language program for non-native speakers aims to provide comprehensive education in linguistic, literary, educational, and cultural media skills, with the goal of preparing graduates to pursue further studies and enter the job market, meeting the needs of the content, publishing, media, editing, and writing industries.

Regarding the steps taken to achieve these goals, Al-Khatib pointed out that a placement test is conducted to determine the level of each trainee, and they are assigned to the appropriate levels. The suitable courses are then offered for each level, and the trainees are trained and provided with field training that corresponds to their level. In addition, workshops, review meetings, appropriate teaching methods, and suitable educational techniques are employed.

Al-Khatib affirmed that the total number of hours for the courses is 256 hours, distributed over a training period of 64 days, at a rate of 4 hours per day. He explained that each level includes 16 days and 64 hours. The different courses in the program include a variety of language skills such as reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Basic vocabulary and grammar rules are also taught. 

The language courses include written and oral tests to assess the progress and proficiency of the trainees in the Arabic language. Various teaching methods are used, such as interactive lessons, games and educational activities, written and oral exercises. Educational materials and necessary resources are provided to students to enhance the learning process.

Furthermore, sealed certificates are provided to each trainee who successfully completes the Arabic language training program.