Vice President "Arabic is Identity and Mission"
The Vice President of the Islamic University of Minnesota - Main Center, Dr. Omar Al-Maqrami, affirmed that the university elevates the status of the Arabic language and places it at the forefront of its academic and research priorities. This stems from its position as the language of the Holy Quran, a fundamental tool for understanding the religion, and a principal pillar of the nation's civilizational identity.
He made these remarks during a speech delivered at the ceremony organized by the university in celebration of World Arabic Language Day, attended by a number of faculty members, students, and guests. Dr. Al-Maqrami welcomed the attendees, expressing his pride in this occasion, which embodies the university's steadfast commitment to promoting the Arabic language and highlighting its beauty and expressive and intellectual capabilities.
The Vice President clarified that the care for Arabic is not a cultural luxury, but rather an essential gateway to understanding religious texts and comprehending their objectives, citing the virtues and breadth of this language as mentioned by leading scholars. He pointed out that the status of Arabic extends beyond the religious sphere to include literature, arts, and sciences, affirming it as a living language capable of accommodating contemporary developments and transmitting human knowledge.
Dr. Al-Maqrami noted that the mission of promoting the Arabic language in the modern age requires organized institutional efforts. He explained that the university has taken practical steps in this field by establishing a specialized department for teaching Arabic to non-native speakers, alongside its core Arabic Language department. This enables non-native speakers to connect directly with the sources of Islam and its sciences.
He emphasized that the university does not rely solely on academic curricula to promote the language, but also employs scientific events, literary competitions, and specialized seminars, all of which contribute to highlighting the global standing of Arabic. He indicated that this approach explains the significant influx of students from various nationalities and cultures – exceeding seventy nationalities – joining the university's programs to learn and master the Arabic language.
Concluding his speech, Dr. Al-Maqrami extended thanks to the Arabic Language Department for organizing the event, and to the Media Center and relevant administrative units for their efforts. He congratulated the winners of the accompanying cultural competition, calling for further dedication in serving the Arabic language and enhancing its presence locally and globally.
