From Dialogue to Action: QFI and IULM University Forge Pathways for Arabic Education in Italy at the Second Roundtable

Rome, Italy (October 2025) – Qatar Foundation International (QFI), in partnership with Università IULM, successfully concluded the second Italian Roundtable on Arabic Language Education on October 23–24 in Rome. Under the theme “Why Impactful Arabic Language Education Matters,” this national convening marked a shift from initial dialogue to coordinated action, building on the foundation established at the inaugural roundtable in Milan in 2024.

The event brought together 40 university faculty, secondary school educators, Ministry of Education representatives, municipal officials, and community leaders to advance a shared goal: expanding access to high-quality Arabic language education across Italy’s primary and secondary schools. For more than 15 years, QFI has served as a catalyst for advancing Arabic as a world language. In Italy, QFI supports an Italian-led effort by connecting partners, sharing global models, and providing long-term strategic support to strengthen the national Arabic education landscape.

Elevating National Priorities

This year’s agenda reflected priorities identified by Italian educators, focusing on strengthening the educator workforce, improving instructional pathways, and creating structures that connect academic institutions with Arabic-speaking communities. Participants explore opportunities to build a national educator network, identify effective pedagogical models, develop dedicated educator preparation pathways, and integrate Arabic more fully across different levels of schooling.

"The broadening of engagement from a regional dialogue in Milan to a national strategy in Rome marks a pivotal moment led by our partners in Italy," said Julia Sylla, Director of Programs at QFI. "Last year, educators mapped the challenges. This year, we created space for them to design solutions. Our role is to offer sustained support and a global perspective that empowers the vision Italian leaders are shaping for their students."

Demonstrating Year-Over-Year Progress

The Rome roundtable highlighted clear progress since 2024:

• Shift in Educational Mindset: Stakeholders increasingly recognize the importance of early Arabic instruction, expanding focus beyond universities to primary and secondary schools.
• Growing Participation and Collaboration: QFI’s Study of Arabic Language Programs (SALP), conducted with the Institute of International Education, broadened the national network and brought new schools and educators into the discussion.
• Emerging Partnerships: Connections made during the first roundtable have already resulted in research collaborations and initiatives benefiting the Italian Arabic education ecosystem.

"The roundtable was an important opportunity to connect with colleagues across Italy, share experiences, and address challenges collectively," said Manuela E.B. Giolfo, Head of Arabic Teaching and Deputy Director of the Department of Humanities at IULM. "QFI’s support strengthens our ecosystem and ensures that all students have meaningful, equitable access to Arabic education. Our shared purpose is to offer opportunities for every learner."

From Dialogue to Impact: Key Outcomes

The convening produced several strategic outcomes that will guide efforts in the coming year:

• A National Community of Practice: Educators committed to forming a sustained community to identify shared needs, reduce professional isolation, and collectively advocate for Arabic language education.
• Educator Preparation Pathways: Universities recognized the need for formal initial educator training programs for Arabic, calling for the development of clear training and certification routes.
• Regional Activation: Regional education authorities are now more closely connected to national efforts, opening opportunities to expand secondary school Arabic programs based on local priorities.

These insights and commitments will be consolidated into a strategic white paper to inform future policy and investment. The Rome roundtable marks an important step in ensuring Arabic becomes a meaningful bridge to opportunity for students across Italy, advancing a sustainable educational landscape shaped by—and for—the Italian community.

About Qatar Foundation International
Qatar Foundation International (QFI), based in Washington, DC, is dedicated to advancing the teaching and learning of Arabic as a global language.

About Università IULM
Università IULM in Milan specializes in language studies, communication, tourism, cultural heritage, and creative industries. It prepares students with theoretical knowledge and practical skills for international markets. Known for its innovative approach, IULM engages with socio-economic contexts to enhance education and research.