Abu dhabi: The Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC) has signed an agreement with Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna. The signing took place on the sidelines of an academic conference the Centre recently organised in Italy to mark the 20th anniversary of the Sheikh Zayed Book Award.
According to Emirates News Agency, the agreement was signed by Dr. Ali bin Tamim, Chairman of the ALC, and Professor Simona Tondelli, Deputy Rector at Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna. Under the terms of the agreement, the University of Bologna will join the academic programme led by the Sheikh Zayed Book Award over the past two years. This programme has been in collaboration with the departments of Arabic studies at Ca' Foscari University of Venice and University of Naples L'Orientale.
The agreement is part of Abu Dhabi's broader strategy to enhance the presence of the Arabic language in international academic and knowledge circles, positioning it as a language capable of contributing to knowledge production and enriching civilisational dialogue. Dr. Bin Tamim emphasized the Centre's commitment to deepening academic and cultural cooperation in the fields of Arabic language, literature, and translation. He highlighted the importance of partnerships with prestigious international institutions like Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna in expanding the global reach of Arabic and strengthening its role in contemporary scholarship.
Professor Tondelli expressed pride in the partnership, reflecting the University of Bologna's dedication to promoting intercultural dialogue and building inclusive, interconnected academic communities. She noted the university's blend of strong academic tradition with a commitment to innovation and international exchange, aiming to foster new opportunities for academic exchange and research.
This collaboration with Europe's oldest university, founded in 1088, marks a significant step in the ALC's efforts to establish a network of high-quality international academic partnerships. It aligns with the Centre's vision to position Arabic as a dynamic and productive language of knowledge, capable of adapting to global intellectual and cultural transformations. The agreement underscores Abu Dhabi's strategic focus on using culture as a catalyst for development and cross-cultural communication, reinforcing its role as a global hub for culture, creativity, and dialogue.