NILAI – The Faculty of Major Language Studies (FPBU), Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM), welcomed a delegation from Maldives National University (MNU) for a courtesy and academic visit aimed at exploring opportunities for collaboration in Arabic language education.

The visit, held at the Faculty’s Programme Meeting Room, Level 9, brought together representatives from FPBU and MNU to exchange insights and experiences in the development and delivery of Arabic language programmes, particularly for non-native speakers.

Among the key objectives of the visit was to explore FPBU’s course outlines and curriculum structure as a benchmark for the enhancement of MNU’s Arabic language programme. The delegation also expressed interest in a collaborative professional development session focusing on instructional strategies, teaching methodologies and best practices in Arabic language education.

The engagement further provided an avenue for both institutions to share their respective academic programmes, expertise and experiences, while identifying potential areas for future collaboration, including academic exchange, professional development and joint initiatives in Arabic language education.

The FPBU delegation was led by Associate Professor Dr. Yuslina Mohamed, Deputy Dean (Academic and International Affairs), together with Dr. Hossam Attallah Elsaeid Attal, IBRAZ Coordinator; Dr. Mohd Adi Amzar Muhammad Nawawi, Head of the Bachelor of Arabic Language and Islamic Literature Programme; and Ms. Wahida Mansor, Head of the Bachelor of Arabic Language with Communication Programme.

The MNU delegation comprised Shiham Mohamed, Head of the Department of Arabic Language; Abdhullah Muhammad, Senior Lecturer; Mohamed Shahid, Lecturer; Mohamed Rasheed Ibrahim, Lecturer; Adam Basheer, Lecturer; and Ali Nisham, Administrative Assistant.

The visit is expected to strengthen academic ties between USIM and Maldives National University and pave the way for more meaningful collaboration in Arabic language education, academic mobility, knowledge exchange and other areas of mutual interest.

God willing, this engagement will serve as a stepping stone towards establishing a stronger and sustainable academic partnership between FPBU, USIM and Maldives National University.

By: Zaharah Zainal Abidin