Milan: The Arab Cultural Institute at the Catholic University of Milan has signed a cooperation agreement with the Municipality of Milan to initiate a program focused on teaching Arabic language and culture to the staff at the Milan Reception Center, a major hub for serving migrants and refugees.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the Arab Cultural Institute was established through a partnership between the Sharjah Book Authority and the Catholic University of Milan in 2024. The initiative aims to support Arabic language education in Europe and to foster cultural and intellectual collaboration between the Arab world and European academic institutions.

The agreement outlines the Institute’s role in organizing introductory Arabic language courses and preparatory programs in Arab culture for staff at the Milan Reception Center. These courses are also available to personnel working within the city’s reception and integration system, who engage regularly with migrants and refugees of Arab descent.

The Milan Reception Center, launched in 2024, stands as the only facility in the city providing specialized services to migrants and refugees. It employs around 100 cultural and linguistic mediators from various nationalities and serves approximately 1,000 beneficiaries each month. The center functions as a bridge between the Municipality of Milan and various public and private entities.

The initial courses are set to commence this March, with enrollment numbers surpassing expectations. This indicates a rising interest in learning Arabic and enhancing cultural understanding in relation to the Arab community within Italian society and public service sectors.