Sharjah Ruler Opens Center for Arab Studies in Portugal
Summary of the Text: Sharjah’s Cultural Initiatives at the University of Coimbra
This text details a series of notable cultural initiatives spearheaded by the Ruler of Sharjah, aimed at fostering understanding and preserving Arab heritage through collaboration with the University of Coimbra in Portugal. Here’s a breakdown of the key points:
Core Goals & Ideology:
* Preserving & Sharing Arab Culture: The Ruler of Sharjah emphasizes the importance of providing future generations with a “solid cognitive document” of Arab culture, enabling them to engage in informed “civilizational dialogues” in a rapidly changing world. He believes culture can bridge divides and reshape perspectives.
* Objective Ancient Record: The Ruler stresses the need for historical documentation that is based on observation and logical distance, free from the influence of power dynamics.
* Culture as a Bridge: He views culture not as a tool to change geography or erase borders,but as a means to build “live bridges” and facilitate understanding.
Specific Initiatives Launched:
* Centre for Arab Studies at the University of Coimbra: This center will focus on recording the history of Arabic language teaching at the university and promoting interaction with Arab literature,art,and creativity. It aims to offer non-Arabic speakers access to Arab culture.
* joanina Digital library: A collaborative project between Sharjah and the University of Coimbra to digitize the historical collection of the Joanina Library (a UNESCO World Heritage site). This library houses approximately 30,000 rare books and manuscripts.
* “Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi Group” (Digital Collection): The first section of the digital library, specifically focused on materials related to Portuguese presence in the Gulf region and the Arabian Peninsula. This provides a valuable research resource.
* Digitization Project: The project has already led to the finding of previously unknown manuscripts, enriching the library’s archive.
Significance of the Partnership:
* Strengthened Portugal-Sharjah Relations: The initiatives build upon a pre-existing relationship, symbolized by the honorary doctorate awarded to the Ruler of Sharjah in 2018.
* Value of International Collaboration: The University of Coimbra’s President highlights the “added value” of international partnerships in achieving cultural goals.
* Accessibility of Heritage: Digitization makes these valuable historical materials accessible to researchers and interested individuals worldwide.
In essence,the text showcases Sharjah’s commitment to cultural preservation,international collaboration,and the promotion of understanding between cultures through knowledge sharing and accessible historical resources.