Jerusalem municipality offers quick, subsidized Arabic course

By OMRI RON

MARCH 23, 2021 11:27

A cleaning operation in Jerusalem (photo credit: Courtesy) — A cleaning operation in Jerusalem

(photo credit: Courtesy)

The first meeting of this program will be held this coming Wednesday and all attendees must present proof of vaccination or recovery from the coronavirus.

The Jerusalem Municipality announced last week that it will begin offering a quick and subsidized course in spoken Arabic.

Participants will learn under teachers from the "Blend.Ar" movement, as well as teachers who speak Arabic as their native tongue.

The course will include 12 lessons, with eight practice meetings alongside them, and will cost NIS 600. The program hopes to give people the ability to speak with neighbors, doctors and employees and co-workers more easily.

The first meeting of this program will be held this coming Wednesday, March 24, and all attendees must present proof of vaccination or recovery from the coronavirus.

"I give my congratulations to this initiative to promote Arabic study courses," said Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lion. "Teaching the language will assist in creating bridges between the cultures and sectors that comprise the diverse city of Jerusalem."

In a report written in October, it was suggested that a comprehensive reform of the way the Arabic language and culture is taught in Israel's schools was needed, in order to create closer ties between the groups.