Sharjah Performing Arts Academy Fills an Educational Gap in the Gulf
The academy, about to start its second year, bases its curriculum on local culture and expands the opportunities for Gulf students to study the performing arts without going abroad.
A Diversity Institute Teaches Iraqi Students About Religious Minorities
The course, a rare undertaking in the Arab world, aims to promote peaceful co-existence and religious diversity by combatting stereotypes and misunderstandings.
Arab Universities Struggle With Final Exams and Reopening Decisions
The Covid-19 pandemic forced Arab universities to hastily shift classes online–or in some cases shut down completely. Now they need to assess learning and decide how to safely re-open.
‘Elmi’ vs. ‘Adabi’: The Power of Labels in Jordan’s Tawjihi System
Which curriculum to follow in their senior year is a big decision for high school students in Jordan. But how freely can they choose amid social attitudes that value science more than literature?
Why Tunisia’s Once Superior Education System Needs to Reform Again
A long tradition of progressive reform prepared the country for independence in 1957. But now its universities are seen as “factories of unemployment.”
What I’ve Learned About Teaching Effectively Online
A lecturer at the American University in Cairo shares his experience of having to abruptly move his class online.
The Latest in Language Confusion: Morocco Switches Back from Arabic to French
Morocco, which switched instruction in schools from French to Arabic in the 1980’s, is now reversing course, to the dismay of some educators. The change is intended in part to improve the performance of university students.
Peace Studies Program Attracts Young Iraqis Eager for Social Change
Students in the new program at the University of Duhok, the first of its kind in a region fraught with conflicts, hope to help build a more inclusive society.
Egypt’s Universities Adopt E-Books in Move Toward Digital Learning
The country hopes to install more sophisticated teaching and learning systems in its public universities. Advocates see many advantages, but the plan has its critics.
Algeria’s Higher-Education Minister Encourages Switch From French to English
Minister Tayeb Bouzid says “French doesn’t get you anywhere,” and announces committee to develop Anglophone teaching in Algerian universities.
