VUB ALEF programme awarded EU Language Label

On 11 January, the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) received the top prize of the European Language Label for its ALEF programme. The programme provides extracurricular Arabic lessons by VUB language experts for children aged six to 15, in a neutral environment. The European Language Label is an initiative by the European Commission to promote foreign language teaching in its member states.

The ALEF curriculum was developed by VUB language experts and emphasises language processing. It includes elements of both Western and Arabic culture. Examples include plays in Dutch, French and Arabic, trilingual songs, storytelling in collaboration with libraries in Brussels and dancing with instructions in three languages. ...