This year KZN played host to over 50 delegates from AMS schools across the
country attending the conference under the theme “ Arabic – The Subject of Choice”
that was held at Crescent Girls’ High School on Thursday and Friday 5 & 6 February
2026.

The two-day programme focussed on strengthening Arabic education at all levels.
Day One was dedicated to the FET phase. Ml Hashim Kathrada and Sheikh Ali
Yusuf together with other members of the marking panel provided valuable feedback
and guidance to Matric teachers, reviewing the 2025 examinations and outlining
updated requirements for 2026–2027. Statistics provided by I.E.B revealed
dwindling numbers in Arabic for the NSC exams, more so in KZN. This was a matter
of concern which delegates undertook to address with the urgency it deserves,

Day Two focussed on Grades 1–9, the sharing of best teaching practices, curriculum
development, and innovative strategies to revive learner interest in Arabic. Sheik
Irshaadh Amod provided a stimulating overview of the Arabic Porgramme that was
being developed at Al Falaah, with the emphasis on self-paced learning and a focus
on understanding the Holy Quran.

In his presentation entitled “Why Arabic still calls us?” Professor Abul Fadl Muhsin
Ebrahim who has a long Association with the Arabic Study Circle made a passionate
call for the promotion of Arabic in schools.

Delegates also had a live linkup with Dr.Abdullah Bawazir, the CEO of Iqra al
Arabiyya of Umm al Qura University and, His Excellency Reyad al Akbari, Head of
the Mission of the League of Arab States in South Africa.

The conference concluded with practical resolutions and an urgent appeal to Heads
and Board members to make a collective commitment to the growth and
sustainability of Arabic in all our schools.

Members of the AMS KZN Planning Committee are thanked for taking care of the
logistical needs of delegates at the conference. The next conference will be held in
Cape Town at a date to be announced.