Published : 28 Mar, 2024
A Journey Through 12 Years of Teaching English in the MENA Region
DR. ALIA IBRAHIM
Curriculum Head
As a seasoned educator and curriculum developer with over 12 years of experience in the field of English language teaching, I have had the privilege of witnessing the transformative power of language in the lives of individuals across the MENA region, particularly in Lebanon and the UAE. Throughout my career, I have been deeply immersed in tutoring and designing curriculum tailored to the needs of adults from diverse Arab and Asian backgrounds.
My journey in education began in Lebanon, where I grew up surrounded by the rich tapestry of Middle Eastern culture and language. Even at a young age, I was fascinated by the nuances of language and its ability to connect people across borders and cultures. This fascination led me to pursue my masters and Ph.D studies in the UK and France, where I further honed my linguistic skills and gained valuable insights into the intricacies of English language learning and business.
Upon returning to the MENA region, I embarked on a career in education, driven by a passion for empowering others through language. My experiences as an English teacher and curriculum developer have taught me that language is much more than just a means of communication; it is a gateway to understanding culture, fostering connections, and unlocking opportunities for personal and professional growth.
In my role at the Ministry of Education in the UAE, I have had the privilege of working with learners of all ages and backgrounds, each with their own unique challenges and aspirations. One of the most profound lessons I have learned is the importance of considering the cultural and linguistic backgrounds of learners before designing curriculum and teaching materials. Language, food, clothing – these are not just words; they are key identifiers of culture, and they shape the way we communicate and interact with the world around us.
At the Ministry of Education, I have witnessed firsthand the struggles that many professionals face when it comes to mastering Business English. From basic pronunciation to speech clarity to sentence formation, there is a distinct gap between everyday conversational English and the language skills required for success in the business world. This gap is particularly pronounced in the Gulf region, where English serves as a lingua franca in the fast-paced, innovation-driven business landscape.
It was with this understanding that I was drawn to the vision and mission of befluent.ai – an emerging startup that is revolutionizing English language learning through the power of AI technology. At befluent.ai, I have had the opportunity to leverage my years of experience and expertise to create pedagogical exercises and lesson plans that cater specifically to the needs of business professionals in the MENA region.
Our AI-driven learning platform offers adaptive learning paths, allowing users to assess their performance and adjust their focus areas accordingly. This personalized approach not only addresses individual weaknesses but also builds confidence in using business English effectively. By leveraging AI technology, we are able to bridge the gap between traditional language learning methods and the modern demands of the UAE and Gulf business markets.
In conclusion, the journey from EFL (English as a foreign language) to ESL (English as a second language) in the MENA region by 2030 presents a unique opportunity to transform the way English is taught and learned. With innovative solutions like befluent.ai leading the way, I am confident that we can empower professionals across the region to excel in the global business landscape. As we continue to embrace the power of technology in education, we are not just advancing educational technology; we are paving the way for greater integration and success in the global economy.