The Graduation of 15 Virginia Tech Students

The University of Nizwa celebrated the graduation of 15 Virginia Tech students due to their successful completion of a six-week intensive Arabic language program. The celebration was patron by Prof. Ahmed Al Harrasi, Vice Chancellor for Graduate Studies, Research and External Relations.

The ceremony was inaugurated by an opening speech by Eng. Salem Al Hinai, General Supervisor of Dhad Institute, in which he highlighted the intensive six-week program for learning the Arabic language in various methods and being exposed to the Omani culture through the expedition and Omani homes.  Eng. Al Hanai emphasized the importance of maintaining hard work in the journey of learning.

The program is a cooperation between the University of Nizwa, DHAD Institute for Teaching Arabic to Speakers of Other Languages and the University of Virginia Tech, Arabic Language Department. Dr Raghda Nasreddin, the General Supervisor for the Program, at Virginia Tech University, delivered a speech on behalf of the Arabic Language Department. In her speech, she addressed the importance of learning the Arabic Language in Arabic countries.

As part of the graduation ceremony, the students shared their experiences in learning the Arabic language at DHAD Institute and what they have captured of the Omani people and culture using the Arabic language.  The students’ speeches spotlighted Oman’s nature, Omanis’ kindness, history, and the famous Omani dessert “Halwa”. They also mentioned the expeditions they went on and the beauty of the mountains and the Aflaj water system.  

At the end of the graduation ceremony, the students took a group picture with the patron of the celebration.