Second phase of the Scan and Learn Arabic initiative is launched by the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) regarding the execution of the second phase of the Scan and Learn Arabic initiative has been signed by the Abu Dhabi Department of Community Development, the Department of Municipalities and Transport, and the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (part of the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi). The Scan and Learn Arabic initiative is an app that enables smartphone and tablet users to scan objects around the city, the names of which are then translated into Arabic.
The initial Memorandum of Understanding, signed in November 2021, regarding the Scan and Learn Arabic mobile application pilot programme as well as discussions and joint research into strategies for fostering a more cohesive and tolerant society, is codified in this three-year agreement.
By encouraging the use of the smartphone application and its scanning technology, the new memorandum seeks to boost the use of Arabic in daily life in Abu Dhabi, among speakers and non-speakers alike. In order to promote social cohesion among the various nationalities residing in the UAE, objectives include preserving the Arabic language and strengthening national identity, increasing Arabic language usage on social media platforms and in workplaces, and increasing the learning of frequently used Arabic vocabulary among citizens, residents, and visitors.
Dr. Ali bin Tamim, the chairman of the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre, stated: "The success obtained in the earlier stages of the 'Scan and Learn Arabic' initiative, aimed at enhancing the use of Arabic language in daily life throughout our community, has motivated the implementation of its second phase.
"At the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre, we never stop trying to make sure that our programmes are cutting-edge and stay up with the times in a world that is becoming more and more digitally focused. It has become essential to offer mobile applications that highlight the Arabic language in order to reach more people, particularly young people. In addition to increasing the use of technology in Arabic, we are also promoting the Arabic language through it. This programme will improve how these generations interact with digital content and the Arabic language, resulting in more people using it in the future.
The Scan and Learn Arabic initiative, according to Shaikha Al Hosani, Executive Director of the Monitoring and Social Innovation Sector at the Abu Dhabi Department of Community Development, "plays an important role in enhancing social cohesion in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and strengthening ties, communication, and interdependence between the various communities that live here."
By introducing non-Arabic speakers to Arabic terminology and the origins of regional Emirati colloquialisms, it provides fresh chances for them to develop their understanding of the local culture and more effectively integrate into society.
Rashid Al Kaabi, the acting executive director of the Department of Municipalities and Transport's Operations Support Sector, stressed the significance of collaboration between the relevant authorities in order to provide tools to improve the use of the Arabic language in various contexts of daily life within the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and to further the spread of a language with a large vocabulary.
