Doha: The Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MOEHE) organized on Monday the second edition of the Arabic Language Forum for private schools and kindergartens. The forum is being held under the theme 'Arabic Language in Private Schools: Challenges and Opportunities,' with participation from experts and researchers.
According to Qatar News Agency, the two-day forum, under the patronage of HE Minister of Education and Higher Education Lolwah bint Rashid Al Khater, will provide participants with opportunities to discuss key themes including curricula, teacher competencies, educational innovation, academic partnerships, and the future of the Arabic language in multilingual educational environments.
The forum's activities feature development workshops aimed at improving teaching and assessment methods in private schools. These workshops are presented by specialized speakers from both Arab and friendly countries, enriching the forum's educational offerings.
In his opening remarks, Assistant Undersecretary for Private Education Affairs at MOEHE, Omar Abdulaziz Al Naama, highlighted the significance of private schools as strategic partners in the educational system. He emphasized the ministry's commitment to maintaining a strong presence of the Arabic language in these institutions, describing it as a vessel of identity and a pillar in shaping children's character. Despite existing challenges, Al Naama expressed optimism about transforming these into real opportunities.
The forum seeks to modernize and make the learning of Arabic language appealing by leveraging modern technologies and artificial intelligence (AI). It also aims to share successful experiences that make learning Arabic a passion rather than just a school obligation.
Al Naama concluded by affirming the forum's goal of fostering a generation that values the heritage of the Arabic language while aligning with contemporary demands, in support of Qatar National Vision 2030 (QNV 2030). He extended gratitude to partners, especially Qatar University (QU), and organizers of the forum.
Dr. Rania Yousry Mohamed, Director of Private Schools and Kindergarten Department and Acting Director of the Private School Licensing Department at MOEHE, stated that the forum is based on recommendations from its first edition and in anticipation of World Arabic Language Day on Dec. 18. She urged schools to develop AI-powered Arabic digital platforms and enable teachers to utilize these tools, highlighting AI as a supportive tool rather than a replacement for human interaction in education.
During the forum, a team formation was announced to develop Arabic language education in private schools across Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, with plans to expand to other Arab countries. The team aims to create a joint strategic plan, monitor implementation of initiatives, and measure their impact on Arabic education quality.
The objectives also include enhancing coordination between GCC Ministries of Education, sharing best practices, and strengthening students' linguistic and cultural identity. This initiative is expected to facilitate a qualitative shift in Arabic language education, leading to an advanced Gulf model for teaching Arabic that can benefit educational institutions across the Arab world.