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THE EXECUTIVE LIFE
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Arabic made easy as Alef, Ba, Ta

Language courses are like holidays. We all know we want one, but no single package seems to offer everything we want. For foreign executives assigned to Cairo or completing a contract here, a crash course in the local language only makes sense. But before you rush to enroll in Arabic classes, take a few minutes to decide whether the package you’re contemplating is right for you.

Ascertain whether or not the school is accredited, and by whom. Consider how long the school has existed and how much experience and education the teachers have. And finally, determine how long it will take to attain the skill level you desire.

A number of schools in Cairo tout Arabic courses for business people, but too often these courses are merely run-of-the-mill language courses with a few extra sessions tacked on to deal with business terminology. To avoid sharing a classroom with casual learners, we recommend accredited schools that offer tailor-made courses geared for foreign executives. And take note when comparing prices that many schools use the word “hour” quite liberally. For some schools, an “hour” refers to a lesson, which may be as little as 40 minutes of instruction. Check with the schools themselves for prices and course start dates.

The Kalimat Language and Cultural Center in Mohandiseen prides itself on its internationally accredited instructors, many of whom taught at the British Council before it closed its Arabic section. Courses are held throughout the year, except August, in all levels of written and spoken Arabic. Class size runs from six to 12 students, with a focus on specialized vocabulary and role-playing common business situations.

Kalimat also offers custom-tailored language training courses for corporate organizations at budget prices, though without compromising quality. The client dictates the speed and level of the classes, which can be arranged at the school or offsite.

And for professionals seeking a total immersion experience, Kalimat can arrange everything from airport pickup to accommodation. Its multimedia language labs and well-stocked study areas make it more of a cultural center than a language school.

The Arabic Language Institute (ALI) at the American University in Cairo offers full-time, intensive Arabic language study in written or colloquial Arabic to business people and foreign service personnel. Its biggest advantages may be its central location and diverse student body.

Most ALI instructors hold degrees as well as recognized language-teaching certification. As with other courses at AUC, the full-year program leads to a US-accredited certificate. Enrollees also have the benefit of access to the university’s library and other facilities.

Another benefit of the ALI is that class sizes, especially during the low season, are small so there is a greater possibility that individual needs will be taken into account. And with so many international students enrolling in classes here, there is a great opportunity for interaction with a diversity of cultures, which in the age of globalization is in every business person’s interest.

The International Language Institute (ILI) in Mohandiseen offers tailor-made solutions for language training. Courses are held throughout the year in both modern standard and colloquial Arabic, including specialized curricula for business professionals. The ILI’s certified teaching staff is also able to design courses to meet the specific needs of corporate clients.

Flexibility is the key here. Instruction is given for groups or individuals with an average of just four students per class. The duration of the lessons is entirely up to the student, who can choose to study for two, four or six hours per day over a four-week period. A certificate is awarded to students that complete courses, which are made up of eight levels.

Fajr Center for the Arabic Language was founded in Cairo in 1995 with the sole purpose of teaching classical Arabic. While not specifically tailored to business people, the center’s disciplined style and high-caliber instruction give students an in-depth understanding of the root of all Arabic dialects.
Communication at the center’s three main branches is in Arabic with an emphasis on one-to-one interaction.

Developed in conjunction with the Ministry of Education, Fajr Center’s intensive Arabic courses aim to provide students with the basic building blocks, then work towards rapid improvement in translation and verbal articulation skills. The center also offers a wide range of specialist courses in Islamic disciplines such as tajweed (recitation) and tahfeez (memorization).

Aminata Jalloh

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