Centre of Excellence for Arabic
The state-of-the-art Center of Excellence for Arabic Language at GEMS Al Khaleej International School (AKIS), slated to open in September 2024, is aimed at transforming Arabic language education by providing students with unparalleled opportunities for immersive learning, cultural appreciation, and technological integration.
With a vision to become the premier Arabic language hub in the UAE, the AKIS Center of Excellence is committed to offering students a comprehensive Arabic language curriculum that not only aligns with the UAE’s values and National Agenda, but also fosters a deep appreciation for Arabic heritage.
This innovative center will greatly enhance the quality of Arabic language education across all our GEMS schools, helping us stand out as a leader in this important field. Our emphasis on Arabic language literacy aligns with the vision of the UAE, to prepare students to excel in the modern world and equip them with essential skills for the 21st century, including critical thinking, creativity, technology literacy, and leadership.
Innovative curriculum
The Center will provide a range of offerings designed to develop proficiency in and appreciation for the Arabic language among students, parents and teachers. Its innovative Arabic curriculum will blend traditional teaching methods with futuristic approaches to create interactive and engaging language lessons facilitated by state-of-the-art technology, including the Nao Humanoid Robot, Tami Telepresence Robot, and Pepper Robot.
Cutting-edge technology
Within the center, students will benefit from dedicated areas for individual and collaborative learning in reading, writing, listening, and speaking, as well as a diverse library of Arabic resources, literature, and educational materials. This will be complemented by cutting-edge technology and access to a green screen studio and virtual reality (VR) headsets to create interactive content and immerse students in dynamic virtual Arabic-speaking environments. These tools are designed to enable personalized learning pathways and progress tracking, optimizing language acquisition for each student.
Experiential learning
Furthermore, the Center of Excellence will offer experiential learning opportunities that encourage practical language use – through project-based learning, visits to cultural sites and events in Dubai and the UAE, as well as immersive Arabic experiences both locally and abroad. The Center will also celebrate Arabic heritage and traditions through hands-on cultural events and workshops, fostering a deeper connection to the language and its cultural context.
Community
Community engagement will be emphasized through regular events and meetings involving families and community members, language clubs, and forums for students to practice and enhance their Arabic skills. The Center will also provide comprehensive pathways and guidance for students interested in pursuing higher education in Arabic language and related fields.
Teachers’ development
In addition to prioritizing student learning, the center will invest in the professional development of Arabic language teachers through partnerships with esteemed institutions like Queen Rania Teacher Academy (QRTA). Teachers will undergo advanced training programs to enhance their skills and stay abreast of modern teaching methods, ensuring effective instruction.
We believe in providing all our GEMS students with an outstanding education that prioritises the provision of a world-class Arabic language program with the aim of creating a dynamic learning environment where they can thrive academically, culturally, and technologically. The Center of Excellence stands as a beacon of innovation and excellence in Arabic language education, promising students and parents a comprehensive range of interactive and stimulating language lessons and enjoyable opportunities for exploration and enrichment aimed at igniting their love and passion for Arabic language and its rich heritage. Looking ahead, we envision a future where the Arabic language continues to play a vital role in global communication and cultural exchange, and our center is dedicated to nurturing students who will be fluent ambassadors of this highly regarded language.”
Ghadeer Abu-Shamat, Superintendent and CEO, GEMS Al Khaleej International School and Senior Vice President – Education, GEMS Education
