On September 11th, 2023, under the patronage of Dr. Ahmad Ismail Assiri, the Dean of the Faculty of Languages and Translation (FLT), the Alumni Unit hosted a webinar on “21st Century Job Skills and Professional Values”. The webinar was held from 8 pm to 9 pm and had a diverse group of participants, including international and graduate students from the faculty. The speaker for the event was Mr. Javed Ahmad, Campus Coordinator of the English Language Center at Alfaraa’ campus, and the meeting was hosted by the Alumni Unit Supervisor, Mohsin Raza Khan. The speaker at the event, Mr. Javed Ahmad, emphasized that the world of work is changing rapidly. In this new world, 21st-century job skills and professional values are essential for success. In today's fast-paced and interconnected world, acquiring the right job skills is essential for professional success. The 21st century has brought about significant changes in the job market, fueled by technological advancements, and shifting industry demands. Automation and artificial intelligence are transforming many industries, and new jobs are emerging in fields that were once unimaginable. To thrive in this new era, individuals must equip themselves with a diverse range of skills that blend technical expertise along with hard skills and critical soft skills. Mr. Javed broadly categorized these skills into three categories: foundational literacies, competencies, and character qualities. He further explained the foundational literacies which include literacy, numeracy, scientific literacy, information and communicational literacy, financial literacy, and cultural and civic literacy. While discussing the competencies, he emphasized the importance of the 4 Cs which are critical thinking and problem solving, creativity, communication, and collaboration. Curiosity, initiative, persistence/grit, adaptability, leadership, and social and cultural awareness are the parts of the character qualities, Mr. Javed said. Mr. Ahmad focused on learning and innovation skills including the ability to think critically, solve problems, and be creative. These skills are essential for workers who need to be able to adapt to change and come up with new ideas, navigate the complex digital world, and make informed decisions. Life and career skills include the ability to communicate effectively, work collaboratively, and manage time and resources effectively. These skills are essential for workers who need to be able to succeed in any work environment. Mr. Javed advised the attendees that professional values are the beliefs and principles that guide a person's behavior in the workplace. These values are important for building trust, creating a positive work environment, and achieving success. Some important professional values he mentioned in the webinar includes honesty and integrity: being truthful and ethical in all dealings, respect: treating others with dignity and consideration, responsibility: taking ownership of one's work and being accountable for one's actions, reliability: being dependable and trustworthy, teamwork: being able to work effectively with others to achieve common goals. While addressing the question-answer session, one of the attendees, Mr. Mahdi asks 'Why are 21st Century Job Skills and Professional Values Important'? Mr. Javed explained that 21st-century job skills and professional values are important for success in the workplace because they enable workers to adapt to change, solve problems effectively, be creative and innovative, work collaboratively, communicate effectively, build trust and relationships, achieve success, etc. During the session, Mr. Maan enquired about ‘How to Develop 21st Century Job Skills and Professional Values’ to which the speaker responded that one can do several things to develop 21st-century job skills and professional values. Mr. Ahmad shared some tips which are as mentioned, get a good education, get involved in extracurricular activities, take on internships and volunteer work, networking with professionals can help you to learn about different career paths and get advice on how to succeed. The webinar concluded with Mr. Javed thanking all the students and staff who participated, noting that the Alumni Unit is a valuable resource to our students. Mohsin Raza Khan, Alumni Unit Supervisor, thanked on behalf of the Alumni Unit, FLT, all the attendees who participated and mentioned that the Alumni Unit will continuously work for students to gain insight and knowledge in their respective career fields. Date: 9/18/2023 Source: Faculty of Languages and  Translation

The Faculty of Languages and Translation (FLT) organized an orientation program for the new students of the Faculty on Wednesday, August 30, 2023. A large number of new students attended the program with great zeal and enthusiasm. Dr. Ahmad Ismail Assiri, the Dean of the Faculty of Languages & Translation, welcomed students and encouraged them to participate in all the academic and extracurricular activities of the college. He introduced students to all the learning resources, facilities, and academic support and advised them to utilize them. He extended all types of support to students for their academic success. Dr. Ibrahim Alasmri, Vice Dean of Educational Affairs & Development, introduced students to the structure of academic programs of the college, especially the BA program. He highlighted the importance of learning English language and its job prospects. Dr. Eisa Asiri, Chair of Translation Department, presented an overview of the translation program. He said that the translation specialization is the demand of today’s job market. He also guided students how they could become successful in the translation field. Dr. Dawood Mahdi and Dr. Karem, Academic Advisors, familiarized students with university rules and regulations. They also informed students about their rights and duties, code of conduct, procedures on grievances, students academic support and services. Mr. Mohsin Khan, E-Learning Unit Supervisor, introduced students to online resources of the college and the university. He also familiarized students with the Blackboard. Mr. Faisal Fadil, Student Activities Director, highlighted the importance of extracurricular activities and mentioned how these activities help students to achieve their academic goals. At the end of the program, Mr. Osama Alqahtani, Student In-charge of English Club, presented a brief introduction of the English Club and encouraged students to join the club. Expressing satisfaction and happiness, Muhammed Asiri, a freshman, said that I was delighted to attend this orientation program. It gave me valuable information for becoming successful in my academic life. I enjoyed the program a lot. I would like to thank all the organizers of this program. Date: 9/11/2023 Source: Faculty of Languages and Translation

  To serve the rapidly growing translation sector in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, King Khalid University unveils the "Translator of Tourism" competition. This competition stems from a profound desire to illuminate the unique cultural wealth of the Asir region for international audiences. Students are tasked with the challenging yet rewarding endeavor of translating pivotal tourism materials from Arabic into English, French, and Chinese.   In a bid to activate the community partnership between male and female faculties of translation at a national level, the initiative has thrown open its gates to students majoring in languages and translation from universities all over Saudi Arabia. The crux of this contest is not merely competition but to channel the potential of budding linguistic maestros. The end goal? To enhance Asir's tourism allure and present its rich cultural mosaic to the world.   Spotlight on Diverse Streams of Translation in Tourism The competition houses three prime categories where participants can display their prowess: 1. Translation: Crafted written translations that encapsulate the essence of the Asir region. 2. Interpreting: Real-time translation showcasing the dynamic nature of languages. 3. Audiovisual Translation (AVT): A fusion of visuals and language to create an immersive tourist experience.   The competition holds more than just a certificate or medal; it's a testament to King Khalid University's commitment to societal involvement. It's perfectly in sync with the broader vision to strategically promote Asir. Dr. Ahmed Ismail Asiri, Dean of the Faculty of Languages and Translation, is an avid advocate. He emphasizes the synergy between the contest and other major projects, like the English translations of three seminal books. These works, undertaken as part of master's graduation projects, offer an in-depth look into the region's societal, architectural, and cultural intricacies.   Dr. Eisa Asiri, Head of the Translation Department, reiterates the institution's dedication. "Beyond our pedagogical commitments, we take immense pride in being linguistic ambassadors for this national endeavor, aligning seamlessly with the Kingdom's vision for an inclusive tourism milieu."   A jury comprising renowned scholars from King Khalid University's translation department, coupled with distinguished external judges, will rigorously evaluate each submission. The most outstanding participants from every category will earn accolades and attractive prizes. For those keen on delving deeper into the competition's specifics, additional details can be accessed [here]. Date: 8/7/2023 Source: Faculty of Languages and Translation

The Faculty of Languages and Translation held a farewell party on Wednesday, June 21, 2023, for a number of faculty members who ended their term of service in the college. The party was held in the FLT meeting room on the S Floor and was attended by a large number of faculty members, staff, and students. The Dean of the College, Dr. Ahmad Ismail Assiri, delivered a speech in which he thanked the departing faculty members for their years of service to the college. He said that they had made significant contributions to the college's academic programs and had helped to create a positive and supportive learning environment for students. A number of the departing faculty members also spoke at the party. They expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to have worked at the college and said that they would miss their colleagues and students. They also wished the college continued success in the future. On this occasion, the Dean of the College presented the departing faculty members with commemorative plaques of appreciation. He wished them all the best in their future endeavors. The farewell party was a joyful occasion, and it was a chance for the faculty and staff to express their appreciation for the departing colleagues. The party was also a time for the departing faculty members to reflect on their years at the college and to share their memories with their colleagues and students. Quotes from the Farewell Party "I am grateful for the opportunity to have worked at this college for the past years. I have learned so much from my colleagues and students, and I will miss them all very much." - Prof. Mahmoud Radwan "I am proud of the work that I have done at this college. I have helped to train many students who have gone on to successful careers in translation and interpreting. I am confident that the college will continue to thrive in the years to come." - Prof. Habib Abdesslem. The party ended with a round of applause for the departing faculty members. The faculty and staff then enjoyed a buffet lunch together. At the end of the party, there was a group photo taken of the departing faculty members with the Dean and other members of the faculty. The photo was a memento of the party and a way to commemorate the departing faculty members' contributions to the college. The party was a success, and it was a fitting way to say goodbye to the departing faculty members. They will be missed by their colleagues and students, but they will always be remembered for their dedication and service to the college. Date: 6/21/2023 Source: Faculty of Languages and translation

The Translation Unit of the Faculty of Languages and Translation organized a discussion session entitled “Research Methodologies in Translation Studies” on May 30, 2023. The session was delivered by Dr. Eisa Asiri, Chairman of the Translation Department and the Assistant Professor in translation studies. This particular session which was specially designed for Master of arts in translation students, was moderated by two promising MA in translation students; Ms. Atheer Abdullaziz Alqahtani and Ms. Haya Abdullah Alqahtani. The discussion session provided answers to questions revolving around the definition of translation studies, the definition of research methodologies in relation to translation studies, overviewing central principles and terms in researching translation, and the constituents for writing research report in translation. Dr. Eisa Asiri began the session with providing an overview of translation studies and research methodologies. He indicated that the central considerations of translation studies are “the process, the product, the participants, and the context”. He has also highlighted the interdisciplinary nature of translation studies as a discipline which relates to a wide range of disciplines, such as linguistics, literary studies, cultural studies, anthropology, psychology, and sociology, among others. Dr. Asiri provided an overview of the definitions of research methodologies in relation to translation studies. He further highlighted the research methodologies incorporated into translation studies. He indicated that there are four observations when it comes to research methodologies in translation studies. These are “the texts that are the product of translation, the translation process, the participants involved in that process, and the context in which translations are produced and received”, Dr. Eisa said. He added that it is important to stress that whether a piece of research is process, product, participant or context-oriented is not determined by the methodology itself or even the source of data but by the ultimate aims of the researcher, and when investigating any of these aspects of translation it is impossible to exclude from view all the others there is inevitable overlap”. Dr. Asiri then investigated the central principles for researching translation with reference to types of research. Following this investigation, there was an overview of product-oriented research, process-oriented research, participant-oriented research and context-oriented research, where Dr. Asiri accentuated certain features of the research in translation characteristics and quality. At the end of the session, Dr Eisa Asiri discussed the components of research studies and the preparation of research in translation. He has also provided some important references for research in translation studies. The presenter took live questions from the audience and the discussion was enriched and awareness increased across different aspects relating to translation studies. The session which was attended by almost 60 staff members and MA in translation students from different universities in the kingdom was informative, very engaging, and overall a great success. For your convenience, we have converted the PowerPoint slides from the meeting into a PDF file, which you can access by clicking here. Furthermore, if you wish to revisit the proceedings of the event, we have made available a recording in MP4 format, which you can view by clicking here. Date: 6/4/2023 Source: Dr. Amal Metwally, Translation Unit Coordinator - Female Section

قامت وحدة التوجيه والإرشاد بكلية اللغات والترجمة حفل تكريم للطلاب المتفوّقين والمثاليين، يومنا هذا الثلاثاء بتاريخ ١٠ من ذي القعدة ١٤٤٤ بقاعة الاحتفالات بالكلية؛ بحضور سعادة عميد الكلية د. أحمد بن إسماعيل عسيري.. استهل الحفل سعادة د. داود أحمد مهدي مشرف وحدة التوجيه والإرشاد بالكلية مرحبا بسعادة العميد وأعضاء هيئة التدريس والطلاب ومن حضر من أولياء أمورهم مهنئا المتفوقين بما أنجزوه من درجات عالية وموضحا لهم مجالات الفرص المتاحة لهم بعد التخرج وداعيا لهم بأن يكونوا في أرقى المراتب والمناصب في خدمة هذا الوطن.. ثم تحدث سعادة عميد الكلية مرحبا بالحاضرين ومهنئا  الطلاب على التفوّق، مؤكدا لهم على أهمية المحافظة على تفوّقهم، ومقدمًا لهم نصائح توجيهية… عقب ذلك تم فتح المجال للأسئلة والاستفسارات والملاحظات التي تدور في أذهان الطلاب… تلا ذلك توزيع شهادات التكريم  لعدد ١٠٧ طالبا حاصلين على تقدير ممتاز  وممتاز مرتفع و عدد ١٠ طالبا مثاليا لم يتغيبوا عن أي محاضرة في الفصل الثاني من هذا العام الجامعي. Date: 5/31/2023 Source: Faculty of Languages and Translation

In alignment with the Saudi Ministry of Culture's initiative to celebrate 2023 as the Year of Arabic Poetry, the esteemed "Poetry Translator" competition took place virtually, coordinated by Princess Noura bint Abdulrahman University (PNU). Teams from across the nation gathered online, ready to demonstrate their linguistic prowess in the English language track. Representing King Khalid University, a trio of dedicated students from the Translation Club, part of the Translation Unit, took up this challenge. Comprised of Amjad Al-Qahtani, Mashael Al-Qahtani, and Nujud Asiri from the Faculty of Languages and Translation, they were prepared to display their exceptional translation skills. As the competition commenced, participants received an English poem via email to be translated into Arabic. Previously guided and prepared by Dr. Eisa Asiri, Department of Translation Chair, and Dr. Amal Metwally, the coordinator of the Translation Unit at the female campus and a faculty member of the Master of Arts in Translation program, the students set to work independently. They had only three hours to complete the task, yet their focus remained unwavering. Once the translations were submitted, a panel of translation experts thoroughly assessed each work. The King Khalid University team’s work was met with praise, particularly for its accuracy, fluency, and creativity, leading to their impressive first-place victory. Amjad Al-Qahtani, one of the winning students, shared her thoughts, saying, "I owe my heartfelt gratitude to Allah Almighty for the opportunity and guidance towards this great achievement. I am overwhelmed with joy at this victory that made my family and friends proud. This is an accomplishment that I will forever hold dear.” Similarly, Mashael Al-Qahtani expressed, "I attribute our success to Allah the Almighty's blessing. I am thrilled about our achievement and I extend my appreciation to the Translation Club for providing us with this platform to showcase our skills in translation." Nujud Asiri also chimed in, stating, "Winning this competition represents a challenge and an extraordinary accomplishment. I am glad to have had the opportunity to represent King Khalid University and contribute to its string of accolades." Upon hearing the victory news, the Translation Club and Dr. Eisa Asiri and Dr. Amal Metwally, who led the students, expressed their deep appreciation for the students' unwavering commitment. Dr. Asiri stated, "Our students have exhibited great persistence, confidence, and competence. Their ability to take on challenges across various translation fields is admirable. I hope they continue to be optimistic and face any obstacles with confidence and hope." Dr. Metwally added, "Witnessing the remarkable success of our students is a profound source of joy and pride for me. From their enrollment in the competition, representing the esteemed King Khalid University, they've exhibited nothing short of unwavering persistence, undeniable confidence, and impressive competence, truly distinguishing themselves in the diverse fields of translation. My message to them is one of optimistic resilience: If every challenge is a locked door, then confidence, optimism, and hope are the master keys. So continue to believe, remain hopeful, and stay resilient, because these qualities will guide you to unprecedented heights of success." Dr. Ahmad Ismail Assiri, the Dean of the Faculty of Languages and Translation, added his praise for the victorious students and their mentors. "This win is a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved. It also shines a light on the high standard of education at King Khalid University. I am also thankful to the PNU for organizing this competition and to the judges for their fair evaluation." This first-place victory is indeed a significant milestone for both the Master of Arts in Translation Program and the Faculty of Languages and Translation at King Khalid University. It highlights the university's commitment to academic excellence and the promotion of Arabic poetry, reinforcing its reputation as a leading institution in the field of translation. For the Arabic versions of this story, please refer to the links provided by King Khalid University (KKU) and the Saudi Press Agency: King Khalid University (KKU): https://www.kku.edu.sa/ar/node/102731 Saudi Press Agency: https://sp.spa.gov.sa/viewstory.php?lang=ar&newsid=2455349 Date: 5/29/2023 Source: Faculty of Languages and Translation

Dr. Eman Alian offered an insightful examination of coherence and cohesion in writing during a webinar hosted by the Faculty of Languages and Translation at King Khalid University on April 5, 2023. Her discourse aimed to equip authors and researchers with the necessary tools to enhance the clarity and logical flow of their work. Dr. Alian stressed the importance of creating easily comprehensible content, emphasizing the role of logical transitions in facilitating effective communication of ideas. She proposed that such measures ensure the author's intent is readily understood by readers. Throughout her presentation, Dr. Alian demystified coherence and cohesion, defining, explaining, and contrasting these two fundamental elements of effective writing. Coherence, she noted, is vital in discourse, enabling the expression of meaningful communication. She recommended that writers employ coherent devices to ensure readers can accurately interpret their intended message. Contrarily, she defined cohesion as a property of a text, while coherence is associated with discourse. Cohesive devices guide readers through the text, fostering coherence. To further illuminate the concept, Dr. Alian likened coherence to the structure of a building, with cohesion representing the bricks used in its construction. In her discourse on achieving coherence and cohesion, Dr. Alian shared various techniques, including repeated words, reference words, transition signals, substitution, and ellipsis. These strategies can significantly improve the cohesiveness and coherence of a written piece. Closing her presentation, Dr. Alian underlined that both coherence and cohesion are vital aspects analyzed in discourse analysis and text linguistics to assess the quality of written text. She proposed that cohesion is a subset of coherence, indicating that attaining coherence inherently ensures cohesion. The webinar was heralded as a resounding success, providing a highly engaging and enlightening exploration of coherence and cohesion in writing. Date: 4/8/2023 Source: Mohammad Adil Siddique

The Faculty of Languages and Translation at King Khalid University has attained the notable status of being the first college in the country to establish an academic partnership with the prominent companies behind the computer-assisted translation (CAT) tools Trados, MemoQ, and WordFast, which are widely acknowledged in the industry. This cooperation signifies a commitment to providing students with an outstanding education in the realm of translation technology. Through these initial collaborations, not only the Master of Arts in Translation program but also other relevant courses within the college will offer students the opportunity to gain knowledge and expertise by utilizing some of the most esteemed and extensively employed CAT tools in the sector. The integration of these tools into the curriculum will allow students to gain hands-on experience with the latest technology and best practices used in the translation industry. They will also be able to learn about the unique features and capabilities of each tool and how to effectively use them in different types of translation projects. The students will also gain access to the most recent version of each tool and be able to use them to create translation memories, automate repetitive tasks, and improve the speed and quality of their translations. Additionally, the partnership with Trados, MemoQ, and WordFast will provide students with the opportunity to gain a competitive edge in the translation industry by equipping them with the skills and knowledge that are in high demand among employers. This will also help students to establish a reputation of excellence in the field of translation and increase their chances of success as professional translators. "We are delighted to share the news of our collaboration with Trados, WordFast, and MemoQ. Incorporating these top-tier CAT tools into our course offerings demonstrates our unwavering dedication to delivering the finest education for our students and remaining at the cutting edge of advancements in translation technology. Our curriculums are carefully crafted to align with program objectives and learning outcomes, and they are consistently assessed to ensure that we equip our students with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in the translation field. This partnership marks a significant stride toward accomplishing those aims." - Dr. Ahmad Ismail Assiri, Dean of the Faculty of Languages and Translation. According to Trados' website, the company boasts more than 600 academic partners globally, featuring top-ranked universities in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia. The Faculty of Languages and Translation at King Khalid University now joins this prestigious list, with its partnership showcased on the website: https://www.trados.com/education/partners/king-khalid-university.html. Similarly, WordFast maintains partnerships with over 500 translation agencies and corporate accounts, including many Fortune 500 corporations, government agencies, and institutions, although specific names are withheld due to confidentiality reasons. WordFast is also utilized by more than 50,000 professional translators worldwide (as of January 1, 2018) and counts over 100 universities, translation schools, and NGOs among its partners. The Faculty of Languages and Translation at King Khalid University now joins this esteemed network as well, further emphasizing the college's dedication to delivering high-quality education in the field of translation: https://www.wordfast.com/who-uses. Dr. Eisa Asiri, Chairperson of the Department of Translation, expressed his excitement about the new partnership, stating, "We are thrilled to partner with companies that offer premier CAT tools, such as Trados, WordFast, and MemoQ. This collaboration will equip our Master of Arts in Translation students with the necessary skills and resources to tackle translation projects with confidence and professionalism, providing them with a competitive edge in the job market and enabling them to build a distinguished reputation within the translation industry. We take great pride in being the first university in Saudi Arabia to establish partnerships with these leading CAT tool providers, joining numerous top-tier universities worldwide. This partnership demonstrates our commitment to providing our students with the best possible education and preparing them for successful careers in the translation sector." Students in the Master of Arts in Translation program also expressed excitement about the opportunity to use CAT tools in their training. Mr. Mashari Alharbi said, "The integration of Trados as part of our curriculum will provide us with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience with one of the most advanced CAT tools in the industry. This will not only prepare us for careers as freelancers or with top translation agencies but also equip us with the skills and tools that are essential for success as a translator in today's technologically advanced world." Ms. Mashael Alqahtani said, "Trados will allow us to create translation memories, saving us time and effort and ensuring that our translations maintain a consistently high level of quality." Ms. Reem Alshahrani said, "The free access to Trados provided by our university has allowed me to discover new ways to streamline my translation process. The integration of this tool into our training is especially valuable in today's fast-paced world." Ms. Haya Talea said, "The training we received on Trados has given us a deep understanding of how the tool works and how it can assist translators and project managers in their work. It also provided us with a practical understanding of the program and helped us to avoid common mistakes while using it." The collaboration between the Faculty of Languages and Translation and Trados, WordFast, and MemoQ has been instrumental in providing students with the necessary tools and resources to succeed in the translation industry. The program's leadership has been instrumental in bringing together these partnerships, ensuring that students have access to essential skills and knowledge. The Translation Unit has played a vital role in making this collaboration a success, offering guidance and support to ensure that the partnership meets the needs of both students and the translation industry. In addition, the Translation Unit has contributed to the development of course materials and training programs, providing students with the necessary skills to use these tools effectively and produce high-quality translations that meet industry standards. Overall, the collaboration between the Faculty of Languages and Translation and Trados, WordFast, and MemoQ, supported by the Translation Unit and the Department of Translation, has been crucial in bridging the gap between academia and industry, preparing students to excel in the translation sector. This partnership has provided students with the opportunity to learn from industry professionals and gain valuable experience, ensuring that they are well-equipped to meet the demands of the industry and succeed in their careers. Date: 4/2/2023 Source: Faculty of Languages and Translation

Dr. Mahmoud Radwan provided an enlightening examination of crisis narratives in his presentation, "Renditions of Human Crisis in Narratives," at a webinar hosted by the Faculty of Languages and Translation at King Khalid University on January 25, 2023. His exploration encompassed various narrative forms and their elements, including loss, blame, renewal, heroism, and recovery often depicted in such stories. Commencing with a thought-provoking question — do narratives drive human crises — Dr. Radwan elaborated on the role of creative writing in shaping and managing these narratives. He noted that we inhabit an unpredictable world, punctuated by climate change and emerging diseases. Environmental degradation often incites a communication void, psychological discomfort, and a sense of loss. Furthermore, he explained that narratives frequently mirror the turbulence born out of such crises, serving as a tool to counter uncertainty. Dr. Radwan pointed out the stark contrast between learning about a crisis from the news and through a work of art. News reports, he suggested, present crisis facts rigidly, making it challenging for average readers to digest. Creative works, conversely, depict chaotic events sequentially, establishing structures based on cause and effect patterns. These narratives, he argued, frame meaning within blame and responsibility contexts, ultimately determining accountability and necessary actions. He also referenced the thoughts of Benoit, Birkland, and Heath on the role of narratives. Dr. Radwan highlighted notable crisis narratives: Chimamanda Adichie's "Americanah" (2013) examines the crisis of cultural deracination; Paul Kalanithi's "When Breath Becomes Air" (2016) addresses the mortality crisis; Barbara Kingsolver's "Flight Behavior" (2012) tackles climate change, encapsulating "solastalgia" and "speciestalgia"; and Graham Elder's "Covid-19 Odyssey: A Pandemic Story" frames COVID-19 as a disruptor of normal life dynamics and routines. In conclusion, Dr. Radwan acknowledged that crises occur and will likely continue with increasing frequency. To navigate these catastrophic episodes, he emphasized the need to remodel our roles within the cosmos and construct a new paradigm. This reimagined model should be inclusive, sustainable, and founded on collective solidarity. The webinar was highly engaging and interactive, with attendees contributing valuable insights throughout the session. Overall, the event was widely regarded as a substantial success. Date: 1/29/2023 Source: Mohammad Adil Siddique

  On January 18th, the Alumni Unit of the Faculty of Languages and Translation hosted a webinar on "Navigating the Job Market: Insights for Undergrad and Grad Students in Language-related Programs in Saudi Arabia." The webinar was held from 8 pm to 9 pm and had a diverse group of participants, including international and graduate students from the Faculty. The speaker for the event was Dr. Abdulrahman Almosa, the Vice Dean for Academic Affairs & Quality, and the meeting was hosted by the Alumni Unit Supervisor, Mohsin Raza Khan.   The webinar aimed to inform students about the challenges and opportunities in the job market for graduates of English programs in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Dr. Almosa discussed the importance of soft skills such as effective communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and adaptability for success in the job market and how students from the Faculty of Languages and Translation are well-positioned to develop these skills. He also emphasized the importance of being competitive by adding professional certificates such as project management, data analysis, or digital marketing. This not only enhances their CV and makes them stand out but also allows them to work in different fields and industries. It also gives them a competitive advantage and increases their employability. Additionally, it shows that they have practical skills, knowledge and experience in a specific field, and can bring value to the organization.   Dr. Almosa advised students to follow their passion and plan for their future career path. He highlighted that the Human Capability Development Program, a newly refreshed Vision 2030 program, is an excellent opportunity for students to gain the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the job market. He also encouraged students to consider job opportunities in areas where there is a lack of workers and to capitalize on these vacancies.   Mohsin Raza Khan, the Alumni Unit Supervisor, followed up on Dr. Almosa's points by emphasizing the importance of English language skills as the crux of everything, especially in the job market. He explained that students from the Faculty of Languages and Translation have a strong foundation in the language due to their coursework and training in areas such as phonetics, grammar, and literature. He provided examples of how these skills can be applied in the job market, such as in business communication, technical writing, and interpreting.   The Q&A session was lively, and students asked about the possibility of obtaining career guidance and help from the college in securing internships. The response was positive, and students were directed to The Forage, a virtual internship platform. The Faculty of Languages and Translation has formed a partnership with The Forage, which gives students access to a wide range of opportunities and resources to help them secure internships and start building their professional network. The Forage is a platform that offers students the opportunity to connect with companies and organizations for virtual internships. The platform is designed to help students gain real-world experience and skills, build their professional network and prepare for the job market. It offers a variety of internships in different fields, remote working opportunities, and mentorship programs, and also it enables students to include the virtual internship experience on their CV, under specific conditions and language, as well as the ability to add badges to their LinkedIn profile, highlighting their skills and accomplishments. The Forage has a set of rules and regulations that the students must adhere to, such as meeting deadlines, attending online meetings, and submitting assignments.   Dr. Almosa also mentioned that the college is working on other opportunities for students to gain real-world experience and develop their skills. He said that the college is dedicated to providing students with the resources and support they need to succeed in the job market and secure their desired career path.   The webinar concluded with Dr. Almosa thanking all of the students and staff who participated, noting that the Alumni Unit is a valuable resource to our students. Mohsin Raza Khan thanked on behalf of the Alumni Unit all of the faculty who participated and mentioned he looked forward to more opportunities for students to gain insight and knowledge about the job market. Date: 1/19/2023 Source: Faculty of Languages and Translation

  Dr. Khaled Abu Melha, born on February 15, 1970, passed away at the beginning of December 2022. He was a respected academic and dedicated educator who made significant contributions to the field of translation, specifically at King Khalid University's Faculty of Languages and Translation.   Dr. Abu Melha obtained his BA in translation from Imam Mohammad ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Abha branch, in July 1994 before starting his first career as a teaching assistant in September of the same year. He later went on to obtain his MA and Ph.D. in Translation from Durham University, UK, in December 1998 and March 2004, respectively.   Throughout his career, Dr. Abu Melha held various administrative positions, including Vice Dean of the Faculty of Languages & Translation, Chair of the Translation Department, and Director of the English Language Center. He was also an active member of several committees, including the University Standing Committee for Scholarship and Training, the Translation Committee, the Curriculum Committee, the Study Plans Committee, the English Department Timetable Committee, and the English Department Exams Committee.   In his tenure at King Khalid University, Dr. Abu Melha made significant contributions to the Faculty of Languages and Translation. His efforts in curriculum development and the implementation of cutting-edge teaching methods helped to enhance the quality of education for students. He was also actively involved in research and publication, contributing to the advancement of the field of translation. His dedication to the faculty and university will be greatly missed.   In addition to his administrative duties, Dr. Abu Melha was a respected researcher and presenter, participating in and attending several conferences in Saudi Arabia and the UK. He also taught a variety of translation courses in undergraduate and graduate programs.   Dr. Abu Melha will be remembered for his dedication to the field of translation and his commitment to educating the next generation of translators. He will be greatly missed by his family, friends, colleagues, and students. He was not only a respected academic but also a kind and humble person who always put others before himself. Dr. Abu Melha's passing is a great loss to the academic community, and he will be deeply missed. Date: 1/17/2023 Source: Faculty of Languages and Translation

On December 21, 2022, King Khalid University's Faculty of Languages and Translation hosted a webinar featuring Dr. Shadma Iffat Rahmatullah. Her presentation, entitled "Catalyzing Change: Preparing Students for the Real World," emphasized the importance of equipping students with skills that transcend the traditional academic environment and adequately prepare them for future challenges. Drawing upon her extensive classroom experience and observation, Dr. Rahmatullah challenged the status quo of pedagogical practices. She prompted educators to question if merely covering the syllabus and helping students achieve high grades truly prepares them for their future endeavors. Her poignant questions unveiled the often-overlooked truth about prevalent teaching methods. Dr. Rahmatullah urged educators to prioritize teaching that is closely aligned with real-world applications, rather than focusing solely on academic success. She stressed that the ultimate goal should be to impart skills that will help students succeed in life, well beyond their school years. Clarifying the concept of real-world learning, Dr. Rahmatullah defined it as authentic learning that goes beyond grades and exam performance. According to her, pragmatic and practical learning can answer the frequently asked student question, "Why are we learning this?" This question, she suggests, signifies students' growing awareness of the practical implications of their studies and their desire to understand the real-world relevance of their coursework. She provided a comprehensive explanation of what it means to be "world-ready." A world-ready student, she posited, should have the skills to navigate life independently, be equipped to face any challenges, and be prepared for life's unpredictability. In her conclusion, Dr. Rahmatullah emphasized the importance of integrating real-world examples into teaching practices to prepare students for the future. She also highlighted the need for students to gain knowledge about significant global issues. The webinar proved to be an engaging event, fostering critical discussions and achieving significant success. Date: 12/25/2022 Source: Mohammad Adil Siddique

  Dr. Amal Metwally delivered a presentation titled "Publication Process & Validated Measures of Scientific Publication Quality," based on her research experience. It was presented at a webinar organized by the Faculty of Languages and Translation on November 2, 2022. This particular webinar was specially designed for MA students and Ph.D. candidates.   Dr. Amal's presentation began with a discussion of publication protocols, specifically the peer-review process and the manuscript life cycle. She emphasized four steps: peer-reviewed research and manuscript drafting, editorial checks and decisions, publication citations, and post-publication peer reviews.   The presenter also focused on how to choose an appropriate journal for a research article. The best course of action as a researcher, she recommended, is to start working on improving its scope of acceptance as soon as possible. Before publishing a research paper or article, it is important for a researcher to know the extent to which the piece of research will influence the scientific community. She mentioned some useful websites that can help a researcher in this case. To begin, after choosing a journal, a researcher needs to verify its quality, for instance, by visiting https://mjl.clarivate.com. Also, he or she must make a list of journals relevant to the subject of the article and ensure the goals and scope of the journals are aligned with the research conducted. He or she needs to check the journal characteristics and create a final list of publications that satisfy all the requirements.   In the second section of the presentation, Dr. Amal also emphasized a few indicators of scientific journal quality. She gave some information on journal impact factors, the SCImago Journal Rank indicator, citations, the h-index, and the international standard serial number (ISSN).   The presenter also mentioned some reputable publishing houses and useful websites that help a researcher choose the appropriate journal. At the end of her session, she highlighted how to be aware of hijacked journals and some recommendations to discern fraud.   The webinar was very engaging and overall a great success. Date: 11/7/2022 Source: Faculty of Languages and Translation

  The Guidance and Counseling Unit (GCU) hosted a workshop presented by the Saudi Human Resources Development Fund (Hadaf) on October 31, 2022, as well as an appreciation ceremony for high-achieving students, contributing faculty members, and supportive staff. Dean, Dr. Abdullah-Al-Melhi, Chairman, Dr. Ibrahim Alasmari, and GCU Head, Dr. Dawood Mahdi, chaired the event.   Muhammad Jaber Al-Harbi, Hadaf career counselor, kicked off the event by introducing students to Hadaf's employment support programs and some of Hadaf's activities. He then delivered a comprehensive presentation titled The Art of Dealing with Tests. The presentation was interactive, according to workshop participants, and pushed them to construct an action plan for the final exam.   Students with a cumulative grade point average of 4.5 or higher for the second semester of 1443 were acknowledged shortly after. Faculty members and the leadership team in attendance congratulated students on their academic achievements and wished them continued success.   Dr. Mahdi and the leadership team then presented Muhammad Jaber Al-Harbi, Hadaf career counselor, with a certificate of appreciation for his presentation. The celebration followed with the presentation of certificates of appreciation to all faculty, staff, and current/former GCU ambassadors who contributed to GCU's accomplishments and activities.   Dean Al-Melhi and Dr. Mahdi urged the students to be diligent and hardworking at the end of the event. They offered wise and motivating remarks, urging high-performing students to maintain their accomplishments and assist their peers in developing good study habits. Date: 11/1/2022 Source: Faculty of Languages and Translation

  The Alumni Unit of the Faculty of Languages and Translation hosted a webinar on a new virtual internship-based learning project on October 25, 2022, with the goal of integrating employability into all undergraduate and graduate programs. The objective is for all undergraduate and graduate students to acquire employability skills that are aligned with learning outcomes and help them prepare for a competitive job market.   In response to the increased demand for digital skills programs post-Covid-19, the Faculty of Languages and Translation worked to find innovative and expedient means for our students to acquire essential employability skills. After an initial agreement with Forage to become a university partner in July 2022 and further correspondence to officially integrate the Faculty of Languages and Translation platform onto Forage, it became clear that our goals were the same: to let students access online virtual internships from anywhere, at any time, with no restrictions.   Dr. Abdulrahman Almosa, Vice Dean for Academic Affairs and Development, kicked off the webinar moderated by Mohsin Reza Khan by introducing the Forage and explaining that students will be able to develop their skills and try out different roles and industries by working through self-paced modules, noting that students and alumni will gain a better understanding of the diverse and exciting career paths available. He emphasized the importance of students and alumni having the skills and confidence necessary for success as they transition from the classroom to the professional world. Following after, Hassan Costello continued to provide additional background information on the Forage. He emphasized that companies on Forage believe talent is more important than connections and mentioned that it is a great way to demonstrate an initial interest or passion for a specific organization and the type of work they do, which will be advantageous in any future recruitment process. He explained that after completing a program, students and alumni would receive a personalized certificate and a digital certificate that serves as evidence of acquired skills. He then highlighted that those who complete an online internship program could update their LinkedIn profile, resume, or CV under the "Certifications" section with their new skills to boost their credentials and kickstart their career growth. "Employers are twice as likely to interview a Forage candidate and four times as likely to offer them a position," he concluded.   Abdussalam Tahir Abdulmajid, a senior, described his experience completing virtual internships on the Forage, emphasizing that signing up is user-friendly and the courses are self-paced. He highlighted that one program requires five to six hours to complete and that you can complete as many as you like. With over 190+ courses to choose from, Abdussalam encouraged his fellow students to sample what real-life work at leading companies would be like and to fully explore their interests.   The webinar participants were then able to pose questions directly to Abdussalam and Dr. Almosa during a lively Q&A session. Date: 10/26/2022 Source: Faculty of Languages and Translation

في سياق تمتين العلاقة مع الخريجين والخريجات من برنامج ماجستير اللغويات التطبيقية وبرعاية كريمة من سعادة عميد الكلية أ.د عبدالله آل ملهي نظمت كلية اللغات والترجمة ممثلة بوكيل الكلية للتطوير والجودة الدكتور عبدالرحمن الموسى ورئيس وحدة التطوير والجودة الدكتور حسن جعشان لقاءا على منصة الزووم حضره كوكبة من خريجي وخريجات عامي 1441 و 1442 . كما حضر اللقاء منسق الدراسات العليا في الكلية الدكتور إسماعيل الرفاعي وعضو هيئة التدريس في البرنامج الدكتور عبدالواحد الزمر. وفي مستهل اللقاء رحب د. الموسى بالحضور وشكر الخريجين والخريجات على تلبية الدعوة ووضح لهم أهمية التواصل معهم كونهم شركاء نجاح للكلية وبرامجها وأن علاقتهم مع الجامعة لا تنقطع بمغادرتهم إلى سوق العمل. كما أوضح أن الهدف الرئيس من هذا اللقاء هو الاستماع إلى تجاربهم بعد الالتحاق بسوق العمل وكيف أن البرنامج ساهم في تطوير معارفهم ومهاراتهم المهنية بالإضافة إلى أبرز الصعوبات التي واجهتهم وكيف يمكن أن تنعكس هذه الخبرات إيجابا على تطوير البرنامج وتحسين أدائه مما يؤهله للمساهمة الوطنية الفاعلة في تحقيق أهداف برنامج تنمية القدرات البشرية المنبثق عن الرؤية 2030. ثم فتح المجال بعد ذلك للضيوف الخريجين والخريجات الذين عبروا بتداء عن سعادتهم الغامرة بهذه اللفتة الكريمة من الكلية تلى ذلك حديثهم بكل شفافية ومصداقية وأثروا اللقاء بقلوب محبة للمؤسسة والوطن وبلغة راقية عكست شخصيات ناجحة ساهم البرنامج في تكوينها وتميزها. وكان من أبرز نقاط القوة في برنامج ماجستير اللغويات التطبيقية التي أشاروا إليها: الهيئة التدريسية المميزة ودور البرنامج في تنمية المهارات الشخصية والمهنية والقيم. كما أشار الحاضرون والحاضرات إلى دور البرنامج في: صقل شخصياتهم أكاديميا ومهنيا وتوسيع المدارك والنظرة العالمية للأمور وكذلك زرع البرنامج فيهم الثقة بالنفس والذاتية وساهم في تهيئة من يرغب منهم لمواصلة الدكتوراه ورسم لهم طريقا واضح الملامح للانطلاق في البحث العلمي الرصين والانتاج المعرفي. كما تطرق الضيوف إلى بعض الأمور التي تحتاج إلى تحسين للدفع بالبرنامج إلى الأمام ومنها سد الفجوة المعرفية والمهارية للطلبة بين البكالوريوس والماجستير وضرورة إتاحة الفرصة لهم للإطلاع على ما لدى الجامعات الأخرى محليا وإقليميا وإثراء مصادر البحث العلمي بشكل أكبر ومساهمة الجامعة الفاعل في البحث عن فرص وظيفية لخريجيها وتطوير وتنويع طرائق التدريس والتقييم وإتاحة الفرصة بشكل أكبر للطلبة في الأنشطة البحثية والتدريب الشامل على مهارات البحث العلمي خارج الإطار التقليدي للمحاضرات. الجدير بالذكر أن ضيوف الكلية يعملون في مجالات حيوية شتى في سوق العمل داخل المملكة على سبيل المثال لا الحصر: في شركة ارامكو وجامعة الملك خالد وجامعة جازان وجامعة الملك سعود للعلوم الطبية والهيئة الملكية بالجبيل وجامعة اليمامة وشركة الكهرباء وشركة ابن رشد التعليمية ومعهد الخليج للتدريب العالي والتعليم العام الحكومي والخاص وبعض الجهات الحكومية الأخرى. اختتم اللقاء بالاتفاق على استمرار التواصل بين الكلية والخريجين والخريجات كونهم سفراء الجامعة لدى جهات التوظيف وفي مختلف المؤسسات وكذلك الاستفادة منهم في التطوير المستمر للبرنامج وإرشاد الطلبة الحاليين وتوجيه حديثي التخرج للبحث الأمثل عن فرص وظيفية مناسبة.

  The Faculty of Languages and Translation, King Khalid University, had a great loss this year when one of its teaching staff passed away, leaving behind a vacuum among us.   Dr. Adel Bahameed was an Associate Professor of Translation at the Department of English, Faculty of Languages and Translation, King Khalid University, Saudi Arabia, from 2018 to 2022. He previously worked for Hadhramout University, Yemen, for twelve years. His areas of interest included Cross-Cultural Translation, Assessment of Translation, Interpreting, and Technicalities of Translation.   He was born in 1971 in Hadhramaut, Yemen. He was a husband and a father of two daughters and a son. He graduated from the University of Aden, Yemen, in 1995 with a B.A. in English Language and received his M.A. in English Language and Translation from Yarmouk University, Jordan, in 2002. His Ph.D. in English Language and Translation was obtained from Universiti Sains in Malaysia in 2007. He held various teaching and research positions in Yemen, Malaysia, and Saudi Arabia. Dr. Bahameed was fluent in Arabic and English and had a working knowledge of Malay. He died in his hometown in Hadhramout in April 2022.   Research Work   Dr. Bahameed published several research articles in renowned journals covering various themes related to translation. He actively attended several conferences and seminars and presented quite a good number of research papers related to his specialization. His latest article was published in January 2020 and entitled Saudi MA Translators: An Evaluation Issue. He also wrote two books: Think-Aloud Protocols: Translating Proverbs in 2009 and Translation One: A textbook for Translation Students in 2014. In addition, he supervised M.A. dissertations as an external examiner.   We are going to miss him, and we are sure that our college will always wish that he could be there among us, sharing his creative thoughts and ideas. His contribution to the faculty, colleagues, and students will always be appreciated. Our prayers will always be with him and his family. Date: 5/23/2022 Source: Aziz Salafi

  On 17 May 2022, the Translation Unit invited Mr. Ahmad Assiri, a Ph.D. candidate in Translation Studies at Macquarie University, to deliver a special translation webinar available to all King Khalid University students. The webinar, entitled "Translation in a Clear & Correct Arabic Language", stressed key aspects of the Arabic Language that translators/interpreters should consider in order to produce a clear Arabic translation/interpretation when conveying English texts to Arabic, including stylistic, grammatic, orthographic aspects. The webinar also highlighted a number of issues that help translators post-edit their work.   "It was a pleasure speaking to KKU’s students during this amazing webinar organized by the Translation Unit. The number of attendees, as well as their interactive engagement with the content, reflects an outstanding understanding of the key concepts presented," said Mr. Ahmad Assiri.   Of noteworthy mention, attendance at the webinar was high, with nearly 100 participants actively participating in practical training exercises related to the aspects discussed throughout the session. Thank you to everyone who participated live. If you were unable to attend, you can view a recording of the webinar here: https://youtu.be/AVOH20MhNdA Date: 5/20/2022 Source: Faculty of Languages and Translation

  The English Department recently hosted an exciting Public Speaking Competition. The audience of over 100 attendees were treated to a magnificent display of talent by the participants. Because of the high standard of all the competitors' presentations, it was extremely difficult for the judges to choose outright winners.   The Dean will be hosting a small prize-giving event for these fantastic competitors in the near future. The Mountain Top Magazine's student journalists will publish a more comprehensive article, and provide related video links about this historic, world-class event, in the next issue. Date: 4/6/2022 Source: Azad Hayat