Arabic Language & Omani Culture Programme begins at SQU

MUSCAT: The Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) on Sunday launched the 3rd edition of its landmark 'Arabic Language and Omani Culture Programme' organised by the university’s International Cooperation Office. The programme runs until February 22.
The programme’s opening ceremony was held under the auspices of HH Sayyid Dr Fahd bin Al Julanda al Said, Vice-Chancellor of SQU (SQU).
Salim bin Mohammed al Hajri, Acting Head of the Academic and Student Exchange Department at the SQU, in his speech underlined role of Arabic language in promoting cultural communication and enhancing knowledge transfer.
He added that the programme reflects the university’s efforts in teaching Arabic to non-native speakers, in cooperation with international universities, including Kazan Federal University in Russia, the universities of Pusan National University ​​and Dankook University in South Korea and Peking University in China.

Al Hajri pointed out that the programme seeks to provide the participating students with skills of speaking, writing and reading in Arabic. The programme also aims to promote the Sultanate of Oman’s cultural and historical heritage through field visits that are organised for the students to tourist and civilisational landmarks in different governorates and wilayats of Oman, he added.
Dr Mohammed al Ammary, Director of the Centre for Arab Culture (Civilisation) at Kazan Federal University, said, “The programme serves as a bridge for communication among civilisations. It allows the students to delve deeper in Omani culture that focuses on the values ​​of peace and coexistence under the wise leadership of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik.”
As many as 84 students participate in the programme this year, among them 71 come from the Russian Federation, 7 from the People's Republic of China, 5 from South Korea and 1 from the Republic of Estonia.
The programme features an intensive curriculum combining classroom learning with a practical application system known as 'Language Partner' that consolidates the SQU’s position as a leading international centre of scholarly and cultural influence. — ONA