„Arabic Language and Culture“
From 01 April 2022 to 23 December 2022, as part of a 24-week project, the promotion of the Arabic mother tongue in connection with cultural identity and the values of the culture of origin was offered to children and young people aged 8 to 16. The project took place in weekly lessons, which were carried out in three to four groups with a total of up to 40 participants. The aim was to provide the children and young people with intensive language support, while at the same time strengthening their social skills and fostering their creativity.
Under the guidance of an experienced educational professional and supported by volunteer helpers from migrant families, the lessons were tailored individually to the participants' level of language proficiency. In an introductory event, the language level was assessed in order to form groups that were as homogeneous as possible and to develop a tailored learning concept. Language support took place not only through traditional lessons, but also through playful and communal activities that fostered cultural exchange among the children.
Particular importance was placed on cultural sensitivity: the educational professionals came from Arab countries themselves, which created a positive learning atmosphere and strengthened the connection to the children's culture. In addition, theatre plays were rehearsed, which helped the young people to express their creativity and strengthen their self-confidence.
The project aimed to preserve the children's and young people's mother tongue and cultural values, in order to foster their identity and provide them with long-term advantages in life. Through bilingual support, they were meant to grow up in their new home strengthened not only linguistically, but also socially and culturally. We would like to sincerely thank the Landschaftsverband Westfalen Lippe (LWL), whose funding made the implementation of this valuable project possible.
