The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), in partnership with the Sultan bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Foundation, has launched a regional language training initiative, the Sultan bin Abdulaziz Al Saud International Language Training in Central Asia. The launch took place during a ceremony held in Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic, from 15 to 18 September.

The program aims to develop curricula for teaching Arabic to non-Arabic speakers in the countries of Central Asia and to enhance the efficiency of educational personnel working in this field. The program will begin in Kyrgyzstan and later expand to Bashkortostan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Azerbaijan.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by several academic, political, and diplomatic figures, including Dr. Mirlan Dyldaev, Rector of Bishkek State University (BSU); H.E. Mr. Ibrahim bin Radi Al-Radi, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Kyrgyzstan; and Dr. Abdulaziz Almagushi, Assistant Director-General of the Sultan bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Foundation, along with university professors and representatives of local institutions.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Anas Hussam Saeed Al-Nuaimi, Expert at ICESCO’s Center of Arabic for Non-Arabic Speakers, highlighted the importance of this program in creating broad career opportunities for Kyrgyz students across sectors such as diplomacy, commerce, tourism, and education. He further emphasized its role in strengthening Arab-Kyrgyz relations at all levels.

On the sidelines of the launch, ICESCO, BSU, and the Sultan bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Foundation held meetings to discuss avenues for future cooperation. Additionally, specialized lectures were delivered to students of the university’s Arabic Language Department.