Ankara: The United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) and Ibn Haldun University (IHU) have signed a partnership agreement to establish the 'Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak Centre for Arabic Language' at the IHU campus in Trkiye. This initiative coincides with the visit of H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, known as the 'Mother of the Nation', to the Republic of Trkiye. Sheikha Fatima holds several key positions, including Chairwoman of the General Women's Union and President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood.
According to Emirates News Agency, the centre is being founded in acknowledgment of Sheikha Fatima's contributions to enhancing UAE-Trkiye cultural relations and her dedication to promoting the Arabic language among non-native speakers. The partnership agreement was formalized by Zaki Anwar Nusseibeh, Chancellor of UAEU, and Professor Atilla Arkan, President of Ibn Haldun University.
The centre is set to provide specialized educational programs for teaching Arabic to both Turkish and international students. It will also organize training courses, workshops, and support scientific research related to the Arabic language and culture. Additionally, the centre aims to function as a hub for cultural dialogue, fostering understanding between the Arab world and Trkiye through cultural events.
Zaki Nusseibeh emphasized that the centre's naming after Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak symbolizes her vision and efforts in promoting the Arabic language globally. He stated that the centre would act as an educational and cultural beacon, enhancing the prominence of Arabic and facilitating dialogue among nations. Nusseibeh also highlighted the partnership's role in underscoring UAEU's commitment to global cultural dialogue and educational access, thereby elevating the status of the Arabic language.
Professor Atilla Arkan expressed pride in establishing an institution that honors Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, a renowned figure in social, humanitarian, and development spheres. He commended her initiatives in advancing Arabic language and culture internationally and described the collaboration with UAEU as a significant step in reinforcing Arabic as a language of science and culture in Trkiye.
UAEU will support the centre's activities and educational programs to ensure the sustainable development of Arabic language learning in Trkiye, enhancing its presence in the global academic landscape.
