Islamic University of Minnesota Holds Distinguished Academic Ceremony for World Arabic Language Day

Minnesota, December 18, 2026 - The Islamic University of Minnesota - Main Center, represented by the Arabic Language Department of the College of Arts and Humanities, celebrated World Arabic Language Day with a grand academic and literary ceremony. The event, held on December 18th, featured an elite group of academics, linguists, and guests from within and outside the university.

The ceremony, themed "Arabic: A Language of Thought, Identity, and Knowledge," emphasized the Arabic language's ability to maintain its presence in the global academic sphere and keep pace with modernity while preserving its authenticity.

Speeches Emphasize Identity and Responsibility

The ceremony was opened by Dr. Imad Ahmed Al-Khatib, Director of the University's Conference Unit, who stressed that discussing the language is a discussion about identity and the responsibility to protect it. Student Bilal Yosri Mohammed Attia then recited verses from the Holy Quran, highlighting the profound connection between the language and its immortality as the vessel of revelation.

University Vice President Dr. Omar Al-Maqrami delivered a speech affirming that understanding religion and building civilization are only possible through the Arabic language. For her part, Deputy Vice President Dr. Zainab Bassiouni stated that celebrating the language is "a moment of awareness" with the spirit and civilizational memory of the nation, praising the university administration's support for Arabic as a "pillar of science, a cornerstone of identity, and a face of civilization."

Arabic: The Language of Science and Creativity

Dr. Ismail Hamed, Dean of the College, reviewed the historical role of Arabic as a language of science. Meanwhile, Department Head Dr. Osama Abdulrahman emphasized the language's richness and capacity for renewal, and the necessity of promoting its use in all fields of life.

The ceremony featured the participation of two linguistic luminaries: Professor Bakri Mohammed Al-Haj, President of the Arabic Language Academy in Sudan, and Dr. Khaled Al-Jiryan, Vice President of the Makkah Arabic Language Academy in Saudi Arabia, who both delivered speeches (to be published separately).

Artistic Segments and Visual Presentations

The ceremony included a poetic recital by student "Al-Khansa," a visual presentation on the history and aesthetics of the language, and a theatrical performance titled "The Cry of Letters," written by Dr. Nadia Abu Awda, which discussed the relationship between Arabic and artificial intelligence.

The event concluded with the honoring of guests and speakers, and the announcement of the results of the Arabic Language Department's Creativity Forum competition, reaffirming the university's commitment to celebrating the Arabic language as a "continuous academic and cultural project" that combines authenticity and renewal.