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Sharjah Ruler Welcomes SG Khouja and Austrian Cultural Delegation
10 February 2024 – Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
On February 10, 2024, His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan Al Qasimi, the Ruler of the Emirate of Sharjah, warmly received Engineer Mouddar Khouja, the Secretary-General of the Austro-Arab Chamber of Commerce, and Philipp Hammer-Purgstall, the President of the Hammer-Purgstall Society. Also warmly welcomed were members of the Austrian delegation and students of Arabic language from Austria, who were honored guests of the Arab Language Academy in Sharjah on a 10-day study trip.
His Highness Sheikh Sultan Al Qasimi extended warm wishes to the Austrian delegation, expressing hopes for a pleasant stay in Sharjah.
The scholarship program, generously provided by the Emirate of Sharjah, is the first initiative and kick-off activity proofing the collaborative efforts between the Austro-Arab Chamber of Commerce and the reestablished Austrian Hammer-Purgstall Society. Its objective is to deepen understanding of the Arabic language and culturally explore the captivating Emirate.
Engineer Mouddar Khouja praised Sheikh Al Qasimi's efforts to foster a strong relationship and make the Arabic language more accessible to the dedicated students. He emphasized that Sharjah stands as the premier destination for those eager to delve into the Arabic language and embark on a cultural adventure.
Mr. Philipp Hammer-Purgstall has eloquently recounted the story of his great-grandfather, Freiherr Joseph Hammer-Purgstall, highlighting his outstanding role as a bridge builder between the Orient and Occident. He was proficient in 12 languages and adeptly translated Oriental literature into German, thereby inspiring numerous European scholars, scientists and literati, such as Goethe and other intellectuals.
The scholarship program covered visits to places like Qasimia University, the University of Sharjah, and the Academy of Research. They also explored landmarks in the Emirate of Sharjah. Another notable highlight was the visit to the Arab Language Academy, where Dr. Ahmed Mustaghanmi, the Secretary-General of the Academy, cordially received the Austrian delegation.
The Holy Quran Academy marked the second stop on the Austrian delegation's schedule. Here, the students learned about the Academy's role in supporting electronic recitations, Quranic studies, and research. The delegation had the unique opportunity to explore the seven museums within the complex, showcasing rare manuscripts, the Quranic readings, Quranic personalities, the covering of the Kaaba, the history of Quranic writing and the scientific miracles in the Holy Quran.
Throughout the scholarship program, Austrian students actively engaged in a distinguished program that encompassed various educational and cultural activities. A major part of the program included a daily intensive language course in Arabic. At the end of the program, they received certificates of successful completion.
The Austro-Arab Chamber of Commerce is particularly grateful to have supported another project, which aims to strengthen Arab-Austrian relations. The Secretary-General of AACC, Eng. Mouddar Khouja, expressed gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Sultan Al Qasimi for hosting the Austrian students. He also commended the efforts of Dr. Ahmed Mustaghanmi and Mr. Khaled Bin Butti, the Director of Sharjah University City, for the successful implementation of the scholarship program.
Categories: Reports
