Faculty of Languages and Translation

  The Faculty of Languages & Translation (FLT) is partnering with the Asir Region Directorate of Education on community outreach initiatives. On March 31st, Habib Bin Zaid Elementary School in Abha hosted Dean, Dr. Abdullah Al-Melhi, and Dr. Eyhab Bader Eddin, MCIL, CL. Many of the students, along with some of their teachers and administrators, participated. The purpose of the program was to introduce the children to higher education and foreign language usage.   School Principal, Mr. Mohammed Farhan, first welcomed the FLT visitors to the enthusiastic crowd. After leading the students through a few linguistic exercises to pique their interest, Dean Al-Melhi and Dr. Bader Eddin transitioned their presentation into the fundamentals of translation. Of course, interpreting and translating are extremely complex disciplines that would be of little interest to most children. Undaunted, the FLT representatives simplified the concepts and broke down the process of translation into rudimentary components. Dean Al-Melhi and Dr. Bader Eddin used a 'down- to- earth' method, complete with simple examples that helped the students understand the need for and methods of translating. The simple and interesting method of introducing the topic came into fruition when face-to-face classroom interaction was observed.   Once the students were fully engaged, the FLT professors gave a brief PowerPoint presentation summarizing the importance, history, and methods of translation. They also showed the students the differences between simultaneous and consecutive interpretation. After reviewing the advantages and disadvantages of each method, the students voted on their preferred translation method.   Dean Melhi stated that, 'It is wonderful having the opportunity to reach out to young people. These grade school students represent unlimited potential, and the future of our nation. One day, some of them will definitely fill our shoes as professors, probably at the same faculty we are representing today, and they would bring back today's event. Vivid, sweet and warm or dim, distant and fading, their memory of today's fleeting visit will come flooding back in their memory. It is important to instill the desire for higher education and life-long learning at an early age. These cooperative outreach initiatives help inspire students, and present some of the career opportunities available to them as they mature'.   Dr. Bader Eddin echoed Dean Al-Melhi's sentiments in noting that keeping the Kingdom's youth engaged and hungry for learning is an absolute necessity. 'We want to show the children that universities are safe and welcoming places that help people learn more and do more in life. One abiding memory of mine dates back to childhood days back in Kuwait where I was sitting at a desk as a pupil. Evoking scenes from childhood days is retained for good with a delicate scent lingering in the air of memory', he added wallowing in a wave of nostalgia for childhood years. Dr. Bader Eddin then showed the students a series of short videos and multi-media presentations that reinforced the live lesson.   The Faculty of Languages and Translation is dedicated to community service and taking an active role in achieving educational and socioeconomic objectives at both the regional and national levels. Date: 4/1/2019 Source: Faculty of Languages and Translation

  On March 23, 2019, the 5th Annual Forum titled Modern Strategies in Teaching English was held at the Saudi German Hospital. The event was organized by Al Khaleej Training and Education and the Faculty of Languages and Translation. The primary aim of the forum was to share ideas about the modern concepts of English language teaching. The event was conducted under the supervision of Dr. Mowafiq Al-Momani. The program consisted of two sessions and six presentations.   Michael Rattan gave a presentation titled 'How to Learn?' and Jordan Rimpela spoke on the subject of 'The Benefits of Teaching ELLs Affixes, Roots and Their Meanings'. Three other presentations were delivered by Bryan Bell, Mohammad Adil and Christopher Harris who talked respectively about 'The Psychology of Classroom Dynamics', 'Successful Classroom Management in EFL Teaching', and 'Living and Working in Saudi Arabia'.   A medical (PYP) student named Ahmed Abdullah Alamoud also shared his interesting English learning experience and emphasized its importance in real life.   The event ended with a certificate award ceremony that honored the presenters. This ceremony was graced with the presence of Dr. Musa Al-Ahmari, English Language Center Director. The forum undoubtedly was a great success. Date: 3-26-2019 Source: Mohammad Adil Siddique Multimedia Source: Mohammad Taisir Albukaai

  Dr. Eyhab Bader Eddin delivered a presentation titled Translation Process Mapping: Key Tools to Explore Translation Cognitive Dimensions at a seminar organized by the Language Research Center of King Khalid University held on March 20, 2019.   Dr. Bader Eddin, in his presentation, focused on the translation process from the cognitive point of view. He explained the Communication Theory. He stated that this theory is based on the premise that product-based models are inadequate to explain the realities of translation. He noted that this theory was adopted by Nida and Reyburn in 1981. According to this theory, as observed by Dr. Bader Eddin, one is not likely to comprehend and respond to a message in identically the same way. The rationale is that no two people share the same linguistic, educational, cultural, social backgrounds.   Dr. Bader Eddin also mentioned that a translator is an active participant in communications who, either wittingly or unwittingly shapes or shades messages being translated. This phenomenon became widely recognized by way of Koller's research in 1979. Later, the 'Relevance Theory' (RT) rose in popularity among linguists and translation professionals. This theory recognizes a shift from static linguistic conceptualization of translation to a cognitive approach to translation.   It is worth mentioning that Dr. Bader Eddin is uniquely qualified to opine upon the various methods of accounting for cultural differences in language translation. He is a full member of the Chartered Institute of Linguists (MCIL) and a Chartered Linguist (CL). Many language professionals have never heard of the Chartered Linguist professional designation, and for good reason. The CL was adopted fairly recently, as per Royal Charter of HM Queen Elizabeth II in July of 2005. Only 520 translators worldwide have achieved CL status, only 3 of whom are in the Middle East. Dr. Bader Eddin noted: 'Enlightened linguists place a high value on all languages, and truly respect the societal values and cultural norms of the various peoples that use each language. Of course, translators and interpreters must have a thorough understanding of the technical aspects of their subject languages. But technical competence is not enough. To ensure truly accurate communication between and among people, language professionals must have a deep understanding of each participant's culture and society. Critical information can be overlooked or misinterpreted because of the inherent nuances of language. One must really know the society and the culture to completely understand many of these nuances. We all benefit politically, economically and socially when human communications are thoroughly and precisely understood. We all may suffer when things get 'lost in translation'. One must make a sharp distinction between 'a loss in translation' and 'a loss of translation'. All languages differ in what they 'MUST' convey, rather than what they 'MAY' convey, and it is between that 'must' and 'may' what has attracted Translation scholars' attention to write on such many disciplines as translation criticism, translation didactics, translation quality assessment, and descriptive translation studies. The CL designation isn't something used to pad a Curricula Vitae or a certificate for bragging rights. Accepting the CL is an acknowledgment of responsibility to use one's linguistic acumen for the betterment of society. I am proud to represent King Khalid University and the Faculty of Languages and Translation as a CL professional'.   The seminar was very informative, interactive and overall successful. Date: 3/25/2019 Source: Mohammad Adil Siddique Please click here to view a recording of the seminar.

  Dr. Eyhab Bader Eddin delivered a presentation titled Translation Process Mapping: Key Tools to Explore Translation Cognitive Dimensions at a seminar organized by the Language Research Center of King Khalid University held on March 20, 2019.   Dr. Bader Eddin, in his presentation, focused on the translation process from the cognitive point of view. He explained the Communication Theory. He stated that this theory is based on the premise that product-based models are inadequate to explain the realities of translation. He noted that this theory was adopted by Nida and Reyburn in 1981. According to this theory, as observed by Dr. Bader Eddin, one is not likely to comprehend and respond to a message in identically the same way. The rationale is that no two people share the same linguistic, educational, cultural, social backgrounds.   Dr. Bader Eddin also mentioned that a translator is an active participant in communications who, either wittingly or unwittingly shapes or shades messages being translated. This phenomenon became widely recognized by way of Koller's research in 1979. Later, the 'Relevance Theory' (RT) rose in popularity among linguists and translation professionals. This theory recognizes a shift from static linguistic conceptualization of translation to a cognitive approach to translation.   It is worth mentioning that Dr. Bader Eddin is uniquely qualified to opine upon the various methods of accounting for cultural differences in language translation. He is a full member of the Chartered Institute of Linguists (MCIL) and a Chartered Linguist (CL). Many language professionals have never heard of the Chartered Linguist professional designation, and for good reason. The CL was adopted fairly recently, as per Royal Charter of HM Queen Elizabeth II in July of 2005. Only 520 translators worldwide have achieved CL status, only 3 of whom are in the Middle East. Dr. Bader Eddin noted: 'Enlightened linguists place a high value on all languages, and truly respect the societal values and cultural norms of the various peoples that use each language. Of course, translators and interpreters must have a thorough understanding of the technical aspects of their subject languages. But technical competence is not enough. To ensure truly accurate communication between and among people, language professionals must have a deep understanding of each participant's culture and society. Critical information can be overlooked or misinterpreted because of the inherent nuances of language. One must really know the society and the culture to completely understand many of these nuances. We all benefit politically, economically and socially when human communications are thoroughly and precisely understood. We all may suffer when things get 'lost in translation'. One must make a sharp distinction between 'a loss in translation' and 'a loss of translation'. All languages differ in what they 'MUST' convey, rather than what they 'MAY' convey, and it is between that 'must' and 'may' what has attracted Translation scholars' attention to write on such many disciplines as translation criticism, translation didactics, translation quality assessment, and descriptive translation studies. The CL designation isn't something used to pad a Curricula Vitae or a certificate for bragging rights. Accepting the CL is an acknowledgment of responsibility to use one's linguistic acumen for the betterment of society. I am proud to represent King Khalid University and the Faculty of Languages and Translation as a CL professional'.   The seminar was very informative, interactive and overall successful. Date: 3/25/2019 Source: Mohammad Adil Siddique Please click here to view a recording of the seminar.

Introduction The English Club is sponsored by the Faculty of Languages and Translation (FLT), and operated under the guidance of one faculty director and one student leader. The English Club has three primary objectives: English language skills development, community service and supporting higher education.   Recently, the English Club has been extremely active and busy. Due to the sheer volume, scope and variety of worthwhile club events, the English Club news is published in aggregate fashion as follows: Team Up to Clean Up and Green Up Club members conducted a volunteer clean-up day in a public park nestled in the Al-Souda mountains. For several hours the volunteers picked up trash and debris in order to beautify the park. The participants also learned about the benefits of recycling and litter-free environments. Local community members were thrilled with the results, and hope to join the English Club with additional volunteers for future clean-up days. Expanding this program will lead to the beautification of more areas and increased public environmental awareness. School Children Get a Glimpse of University Life One English Club priority is promoting higher education, and it's always helpful to start early. The club, led by director Faisal Alfadhil, recently hosted classes from the Al-Andalus Elementary School and Excellent Education Schools from Abha. Each class toured the university facilities and had the opportunity to speak with university students, faculty members and staff. The grade school students had a lot of fun seeing the university and asking questions.   The purpose of hosting these visits is to show children that universities are safe, supportive and welcoming places. When they reach young adulthood, they may not remember the details of their visit to KKU. But they will likely recall that visiting the university was a positive experience. This will encourage young adults to pursue advanced education once they graduate high school. Electronic Gaming Competition - An Outlet for Stress For several weeks members of the English Club sponsored an electronic gaming competition. The selected game was FIFA 19. More than 60 FLT students competed in the event. After much fierce but friendly competition, FLT student Mohammed Dhafer took first place. The purposes of the event were to give the students a stress relieving break from their rigorous academic obligations, and to promote good sportsmanship. Everyone had a fine time and congratulated Mohammed Dhafer on his hard-won victory. Weekly Coffee Talk at the LEP The English Club established a standing program titled 'Coffee Talk'. Each Wednesday the Club hosts a gathering in the LEP. The purposes of this program are to help students improve their language skills through informal conversations, and short faculty presentations on a variety of language learning topics. These gatherings are also an opportunity for students to socialize and exchange ideas.   Coffee Talk is every Wednesday at noon in the LEP (room A/3/1) at the end of the hall of FLT classrooms. All students are welcome. Refreshments are available. English Club Closing Ceremony for Spring 2019 The English Club has been very busy this Spring. As the semester winds down, the club members took a few moments to look back and reflect upon all of the events and activities conducted during the school year. Therefore, the English Club hosted a year-end review meeting last week.   FLT Dean Abdullah Al-Melhi sponsored the event, with English Club Director Faisal Alfadhil and Student Body English Club President Abdulaziz Dahlan serving as master of ceremonies. In his opening remarks, Dean Al-Melhi commended the English Club members and the club director for all of their hard work. 'Naturally, the English Club helps current FLT students improve their language skills, which is inherently valuable. As highly noteworthy additional benefits, the club serves the community, promotes good citizenship and encourages higher education to young people. We hope to expand the English Club membership to include more of our students and increase community outreach efforts' he said. The Dean further explained that extracurricular activity involvement teaches students to manage their time and broadens their university experience.   The English Club presented a video montage chronicling many of the events that occurred over the last few months. Subsequently, there was an awards ceremony recognizing numerous faculty members who participated in various English Club functions. Current club director Faisal Alfadhil thanked former club director Khalid Al-Qasemi for all of his foundational work with the English Club, and for ensuring a smooth transfer of leadership responsibilities. English Club Answers the Call in Time of Crisis The English Club took on an unplanned community service project in the wake of the New Zealand mosque massacres. Due to this most unfortunate event, there is a shortage of Holy Qurans and other Islamic material in the nation of New Zealand. The English Club has answered the call to help remedy this situation.   The club is working with the Mada Program to collect and transport Holy Qurans, books and related materials to mosques and religious centers on the remote island nation. Electronic Dawah Project (EDPr) Director and former FLT Dean, Dr. Abdullah Abu Eshy, said he knew he could count on KKU and the FLT to help. 'We cannot undo this tragedy, but we will do everything in our power to provide aid and comfort to the families and communities suffering in the aftermath. I am proud of the English Club members for volunteering in this time of need. Their efforts are critical. Our wounded brothers and sisters are far away, but they are not alone' he said. Prof. Abdallah Hady Al-Kahtany, former Dean of Faculty Affairs, explained that the purpose of the volunteer project was to provide books to those who wish to discover and learn about Islam from authentic sources. 'I am happy these young men came out tonight for a noble cause. Our work does not stop here. We will respond to all requests that come our way and play our part in helping to spread the correct message of Islam', said Prof. Al-Kahtany. Conclusion The English Club thanks all of its members for a highly productive year. The club also thanks Dean Al-Melhi, Vice Dean, Dr. Yahya Asiri, and Chairman, Dr. Munassir Alhamami, for their continuing patronage and guidance. The university and the FLT are committed to continuous improvement in academics and ever-expanding social outreach programs. The English Club is an effective means of fulfilling these objectives. The club has an open invitation to students who would like to join and participate in this worthwhile venture. Date: 3/22/2019 Source: Faculty of Languages and Translation

Introduction The English Club is sponsored by the Faculty of Languages and Translation (FLT), and operated under the guidance of one faculty director and one student leader. The English Club has three primary objectives: English language skills development, community service and supporting higher education.   Recently, the English Club has been extremely active and busy. Due to the sheer volume, scope and variety of worthwhile club events, the English Club news is published in aggregate fashion as follows: Team Up to Clean Up and Green Up Club members conducted a volunteer clean-up day in a public park nestled in the Al-Souda mountains. For several hours the volunteers picked up trash and debris in order to beautify the park. The participants also learned about the benefits of recycling and litter-free environments. Local community members were thrilled with the results, and hope to join the English Club with additional volunteers for future clean-up days. Expanding this program will lead to the beautification of more areas and increased public environmental awareness. School Children Get a Glimpse of University Life One English Club priority is promoting higher education, and it's always helpful to start early. The club, led by director Faisal Alfadhil, recently hosted classes from the Al-Andalus Elementary School and Excellent Education Schools from Abha. Each class toured the university facilities and had the opportunity to speak with university students, faculty members and staff. The grade school students had a lot of fun seeing the university and asking questions.   The purpose of hosting these visits is to show children that universities are safe, supportive and welcoming places. When they reach young adulthood, they may not remember the details of their visit to KKU. But they will likely recall that visiting the university was a positive experience. This will encourage young adults to pursue advanced education once they graduate high school. Electronic Gaming Competition - An Outlet for Stress For several weeks members of the English Club sponsored an electronic gaming competition. The selected game was FIFA 19. More than 60 FLT students competed in the event. After much fierce but friendly competition, FLT student Mohammed Dhafer took first place. The purposes of the event were to give the students a stress relieving break from their rigorous academic obligations, and to promote good sportsmanship. Everyone had a fine time and congratulated Mohammed Dhafer on his hard-won victory. Weekly Coffee Talk at the LEP The English Club established a standing program titled 'Coffee Talk'. Each Wednesday the Club hosts a gathering in the LEP. The purposes of this program are to help students improve their language skills through informal conversations, and short faculty presentations on a variety of language learning topics. These gatherings are also an opportunity for students to socialize and exchange ideas.   Coffee Talk is every Wednesday at noon in the LEP (room A/3/1) at the end of the hall of FLT classrooms. All students are welcome. Refreshments are available. English Club Closing Ceremony for Spring 2019 The English Club has been very busy this Spring. As the semester winds down, the club members took a few moments to look back and reflect upon all of the events and activities conducted during the school year. Therefore, the English Club hosted a year-end review meeting last week.   FLT Dean Abdullah Al-Melhi sponsored the event, with English Club Director Faisal Alfadhil and Student Body English Club President Abdulaziz Dahlan serving as master of ceremonies. In his opening remarks, Dean Al-Melhi commended the English Club members and the club director for all of their hard work. 'Naturally, the English Club helps current FLT students improve their language skills, which is inherently valuable. As highly noteworthy additional benefits, the club serves the community, promotes good citizenship and encourages higher education to young people. We hope to expand the English Club membership to include more of our students and increase community outreach efforts' he said. The Dean further explained that extracurricular activity involvement teaches students to manage their time and broadens their university experience.   The English Club presented a video montage chronicling many of the events that occurred over the last few months. Subsequently, there was an awards ceremony recognizing numerous faculty members who participated in various English Club functions. Current club director Faisal Alfadhil thanked former club director Khalid Al-Qasemi for all of his foundational work with the English Club, and for ensuring a smooth transfer of leadership responsibilities. English Club Answers the Call in Time of Crisis The English Club took on an unplanned community service project in the wake of the New Zealand mosque massacres. Due to this most unfortunate event, there is a shortage of Holy Qurans and other Islamic material in the nation of New Zealand. The English Club has answered the call to help remedy this situation.   The club is working with the Mada Program to collect and transport Holy Qurans, books and related materials to mosques and religious centers on the remote island nation. Electronic Dawah Project (EDPr) Director and former FLT Dean, Dr. Abdullah Abu Eshy, said he knew he could count on KKU and the FLT to help. 'We cannot undo this tragedy, but we will do everything in our power to provide aid and comfort to the families and communities suffering in the aftermath. I am proud of the English Club members for volunteering in this time of need. Their efforts are critical. Our wounded brothers and sisters are far away, but they are not alone' he said. Prof. Abdallah Hady Al-Kahtany, former Dean of Faculty Affairs, explained that the purpose of the volunteer project was to provide books to those who wish to discover and learn about Islam from authentic sources. 'I am happy these young men came out tonight for a noble cause. Our work does not stop here. We will respond to all requests that come our way and play our part in helping to spread the correct message of Islam', said Prof. Al-Kahtany. Conclusion The English Club thanks all of its members for a highly productive year. The club also thanks Dean Al-Melhi, Vice Dean, Dr. Yahya Asiri, and Chairman, Dr. Munassir Alhamami, for their continuing patronage and guidance. The university and the FLT are committed to continuous improvement in academics and ever-expanding social outreach programs. The English Club is an effective means of fulfilling these objectives. The club has an open invitation to students who would like to join and participate in this worthwhile venture. Date: 3/22/2019 Source: Faculty of Languages and Translation

  This past Sunday Dr. Mahmoud Radwan conducted a workshop titled 'Approaches to Literary Studies' for students of the Faculty of Languages and Translation. The English Club sponsored the event, and more than 200 students and faculty members attended.   The workshop covered a variety of topics. First, Dr. Radwan defined literature and distinguished literary works from other forms of writing. Next, he discussed the importance of creativity and imagination in developing literary writers. Dr. Radwan then reviewed the three major forms of literature (poetry, drama and prose), and the elements of literary works. Later he recounted the major historical developments in English literature.   Finally, Dr. Radwan discussed in detail the benefits of both reading and writing literature. Literature offers readers alternative perspectives and encourages critical thinking. Literary works from varying places and past times enhance readers' understanding of other people and cultures. Much of literature provides valuable insight into the human condition. It is worth noting that exposure to literature can greatly enhance a person's writing skills.   The workshop participants benefited greatly from Dr. Radwan's presentation. Many students were inspired to utilize their innate talents and capabilities to write literature of their own. While literature classes encourage student creativity, these special workshops reinforce classroom learning and enhance students' personal development. Students also received words of encouragement and examples of inspiration when Dr. Radwan referred to the most prominent figures in Arab literature. Examples of such writers include Nguib Mahfouz (Egyptian), Radwa Ashour (Egyptian), Ghazi Al Gosaibi (Saudi), Abdou Khal (Saudi), Abdelfattah Kilito (Moroccan), Ibrahim Al-Kuni (Libya), and Amir Tag Elsir (Sudan). The English Club is proud to sponsor this and other events for the student body. Each attendee at Dr. Radwan’s presentation will receive a certificate.   The FLT fully supports the creative literary arts. In a world increasingly focused on technology and technical prowess, people often overlook the inherent value in literature. The department is committed to preserving society's appreciation for great writing and contributing to the ever-expanding body of literary works. Date: 3/12/2019 Source: Faculty of Languages and Translation

  This past Sunday Dr. Mahmoud Radwan conducted a workshop titled 'Approaches to Literary Studies' for students of the Faculty of Languages and Translation. The English Club sponsored the event, and more than 200 students and faculty members attended.   The workshop covered a variety of topics. First, Dr. Radwan defined literature and distinguished literary works from other forms of writing. Next, he discussed the importance of creativity and imagination in developing literary writers. Dr. Radwan then reviewed the three major forms of literature (poetry, drama and prose), and the elements of literary works. Later he recounted the major historical developments in English literature.   Finally, Dr. Radwan discussed in detail the benefits of both reading and writing literature. Literature offers readers alternative perspectives and encourages critical thinking. Literary works from varying places and past times enhance readers' understanding of other people and cultures. Much of literature provides valuable insight into the human condition. It is worth noting that exposure to literature can greatly enhance a person's writing skills.   The workshop participants benefited greatly from Dr. Radwan's presentation. Many students were inspired to utilize their innate talents and capabilities to write literature of their own. While literature classes encourage student creativity, these special workshops reinforce classroom learning and enhance students' personal development. Students also received words of encouragement and examples of inspiration when Dr. Radwan referred to the most prominent figures in Arab literature. Examples of such writers include Nguib Mahfouz (Egyptian), Radwa Ashour (Egyptian), Ghazi Al Gosaibi (Saudi), Abdou Khal (Saudi), Abdelfattah Kilito (Moroccan), Ibrahim Al-Kuni (Libya), and Amir Tag Elsir (Sudan). The English Club is proud to sponsor this and other events for the student body. Each attendee at Dr. Radwan’s presentation will receive a certificate.   The FLT fully supports the creative literary arts. In a world increasingly focused on technology and technical prowess, people often overlook the inherent value in literature. The department is committed to preserving society's appreciation for great writing and contributing to the ever-expanding body of literary works. Date: 3/12/2019 Source: Faculty of Languages and Translation

  The English Club recently sponsored a social gathering at the Al-Lasan Campus which was open to all students and faculty members. Student activities director Faisal Alfadhil explained that he planned the gathering to serve a variety of important purposes. First, the event was to strengthen the relationships between students and faculty members. Also, the gathering helped further develop positive relationships among the students, and encourage their participation in future departmental and university-wide activities. Third, the event provided students in the department an opportunity to practice English. 'It is beneficial for language learners to practice the target language in a natural, informal setting' said Director Alfadhil. Finally, the festivities allowed the students time to unwind after the mid-term exam period, and gave them a chance to have some collegial fun.   The evening was busy with many activities. First, there was a series of 5-on-5 football matches. After each match, the prevailing team retained the field to face a new challenger. The football competitions were friendly, but fierce. Every team performed well, and each player exhibited gentlemanly sportsmanship. After a short rest period, everyone prayed en masse.   Next, the Spelling Bee competition commenced to the great excitement of the participants and the audience. Seasoned teacher and word-master Hassan Costello directed the Spelling Bee, assisted by Director Alfadhil keeping score, and English Club President, Abdulaziz Dahlan, monitoring the timer. After several rounds of excellent performance, the first-place finish came down to a ‘sudden death spell-off’ between senior students Fawaz Al-Qahatani and Saud Al-Shahrani. Many of the words used in the competition contained reverse ordered, double vowels which are notoriously difficult to spell even for native English speakers.   After a lively exchange of spelling efforts, Fawaz ultimately prevailed taking first prize with Saud as a most worthy runner up. Vice Dean of Academic Affairs, Dr. Yahya Asiri, presented the Spelling Bee awards. The top finishers received 100 SAR and 50 SAR Jarir Bookstore gift certificates for first and second place respectively. Many of the students who watched the competition expressed interest in participating in future spelling bees.   After the Spelling Bee, the department hosted an open forum discussion. All students and faculty members were allowed and encouraged to raise issues about the FLT department operations. Everyone was free to discuss issues, problems, suggested improvements and the like. The purpose of the form was to get honest feedback from stakeholders. This is an essential component of the FLT's commitment to continuous improvement. Among the topics discussed was the need for greater informal student-teacher engagement. The consensus was that additional social gatherings would greatly help to advance the goal of reinforcing relationships.   Vice Dean Asiri, Chairman, Dr. Munassir Alhamami, Academic Development Unit Head, Dr. Abdulrahman Almosa, Academic Guidance and Counseling Unit Head, Dr. Dawood Mahdi, and Dr. Saeed Al-Surf all spoke to the students. While their remarks varied, the theme was the same. The faculty and staff are there to help the students succeed in their academic and subsequent careers. In his address to the students, Vice Dean Asiri eloquently summarized the faculty adjurations in saying:   'Educating the next generation of leaders is a critical duty. Helping all of you become consummate professionals and upstanding citizens is our mission. Our nation’s future depends upon your drive, abilities, and integrity. The college experience involves many challenges, hardships, and frustrations. We encourage you to embrace every difficulty as an essential part of learning and a building block for your ultimate success'.   The faculty expressed optimism about student attitudes towards education and their apparent eagerness to make the most of their time at the university.   After prayer, the attendees enjoyed a delicious meal. The dinner conversation was lively and convivial. The discussions continued well into the evening, and a fine time was had by all. This social gathering is indicative of FLT's commitment to the students and higher education. Date: 3/9/2019 Source: Faculty of Languages and Translation

  The English Club recently sponsored a social gathering at the Al-Lasan Campus which was open to all students and faculty members. Student activities director Faisal Alfadhil explained that he planned the gathering to serve a variety of important purposes. First, the event was to strengthen the relationships between students and faculty members. Also, the gathering helped further develop positive relationships among the students, and encourage their participation in future departmental and university-wide activities. Third, the event provided students in the department an opportunity to practice English. 'It is beneficial for language learners to practice the target language in a natural, informal setting' said Director Alfadhil. Finally, the festivities allowed the students time to unwind after the mid-term exam period, and gave them a chance to have some collegial fun.   The evening was busy with many activities. First, there was a series of 5-on-5 football matches. After each match, the prevailing team retained the field to face a new challenger. The football competitions were friendly, but fierce. Every team performed well, and each player exhibited gentlemanly sportsmanship. After a short rest period, everyone prayed en masse.   Next, the Spelling Bee competition commenced to the great excitement of the participants and the audience. Seasoned teacher and word-master Hassan Costello directed the Spelling Bee, assisted by Director Alfadhil keeping score, and English Club President, Abdulaziz Dahlan, monitoring the timer. After several rounds of excellent performance, the first-place finish came down to a ‘sudden death spell-off’ between senior students Fawaz Al-Qahatani and Saud Al-Shahrani. Many of the words used in the competition contained reverse ordered, double vowels which are notoriously difficult to spell even for native English speakers.   After a lively exchange of spelling efforts, Fawaz ultimately prevailed taking first prize with Saud as a most worthy runner up. Vice Dean of Academic Affairs, Dr. Yahya Asiri, presented the Spelling Bee awards. The top finishers received 100 SAR and 50 SAR Jarir Bookstore gift certificates for first and second place respectively. Many of the students who watched the competition expressed interest in participating in future spelling bees.   After the Spelling Bee, the department hosted an open forum discussion. All students and faculty members were allowed and encouraged to raise issues about the FLT department operations. Everyone was free to discuss issues, problems, suggested improvements and the like. The purpose of the form was to get honest feedback from stakeholders. This is an essential component of the FLT's commitment to continuous improvement. Among the topics discussed was the need for greater informal student-teacher engagement. The consensus was that additional social gatherings would greatly help to advance the goal of reinforcing relationships.   Vice Dean Asiri, Chairman, Dr. Munassir Alhamami, Academic Development Unit Head, Dr. Abdulrahman Almosa, Academic Guidance and Counseling Unit Head, Dr. Dawood Mahdi, and Dr. Saeed Al-Surf all spoke to the students. While their remarks varied, the theme was the same. The faculty and staff are there to help the students succeed in their academic and subsequent careers. In his address to the students, Vice Dean Asiri eloquently summarized the faculty adjurations in saying:   'Educating the next generation of leaders is a critical duty. Helping all of you become consummate professionals and upstanding citizens is our mission. Our nation’s future depends upon your drive, abilities, and integrity. The college experience involves many challenges, hardships, and frustrations. We encourage you to embrace every difficulty as an essential part of learning and a building block for your ultimate success'.   The faculty expressed optimism about student attitudes towards education and their apparent eagerness to make the most of their time at the university.   After prayer, the attendees enjoyed a delicious meal. The dinner conversation was lively and convivial. The discussions continued well into the evening, and a fine time was had by all. This social gathering is indicative of FLT's commitment to the students and higher education. Date: 3/9/2019 Source: Faculty of Languages and Translation