In a move aimed at bridging cultural and linguistic divides worldwide, the Saudi Ministry of Culture has launched an Arabic language course on the popular video-sharing platform YouTube. The course, which includes lessons, videos, and interactive materials, is designed to help learners grasp the fundamentals of the Arabic language and its cultural nuances.
The initiative, named “Ok Aselam Alykum,” which translates to “Peace be upon you” in Arabic, is part of a broader effort to promote Arabic language and culture globally. According to a statement by the Ministry, the course is intended to foster greater understanding and exchange between people from diverse backgrounds.
The “Ok Aselam Alykum” course is available in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, French, and Russian. It consists of 20 lessons, each with a specific theme, such as greetings, introductions, and basic phrases. The course also includes interactive quizzes, games, and videos that showcase the beauty and richness of Arabic culture.
Saudi Minister of Culture, Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan, said that the launch of the Arabic language course is a significant step towards promoting cultural exchange and understanding among nations. “This initiative will not only help people learn the Arabic language but also introduce them to our rich cultural heritage and values,” he added.
The launch of the course coincides with the celebration of World Arabic Language Day, observed on December 18th each year. The day aims to promote the Arabic language and its contribution to the global community.
Experts hail the initiative as a timely effort to promote global understanding and cultural exchange. “Learning a new language is one of the most effective ways to break cultural and social barriers,” said Dr. Abdullah Al-Khateeb, a linguist at King Fahd University in Riyadh. “The ‘Ok Aselam Alykum’ course is a great example of how technology can be leveraged to promote language learning and cultural exchange.”
The “Ok Aselam Alykum” course will be offered free of charge on YouTube, making it accessible to learners worldwide. The Ministry of Culture has encouraged learners to share their experiences and feedback on the course, with a view to continuously improving and expanding the initiative.
As the course gains popularity, it is likely to play a significant role in promoting global understanding and cultural exchange, and contributing to a more harmonious and interconnected world.
