October is Islamic Heritage Month in Canada, a time to celebrate the contributions of the Muslim community to Canadian society. This year, in partnership with Mosaique Interculturelle, we joined the Conseil des écoles publiques de l’Est de l’Ontario (CEPEO) to bring The World of Sabbih to two secondary schools, L'École secondaire publique L'Héritage and L'École secondaire publique Omer-Deslauriers. This marked our first collaboration on a unique STEAM project focusing on Islamic heritage through an artistic and educational lens.
Themes of Islamic Traditions in East Africa In discussing the book, we introduced students to the historical ties between East Africa and the Middle East, highlighting cultural exchanges that shaped Swahili and Islamic traditions. Students explored these influences and connected them to their own heritage.
Connecting Arabic and Swahili Language & Arabic Calligraphy Workshop To deepen cultural understanding, we introduced common Arabic words in Swahili, such as “qalamun” (قَلَمٌ) for “pen” and “kitabun” (كِتَابٌ) for “book.” Through familiar Swahili words like “kalamu” and “kitabu,” students appreciated the linguistic bridge between the two languages, making learning more interactive.
Additionally, we introduced students to the art of Arabic calligraphy, which was a novel experience for the majority of them. Using the words "قلمون" (qalamoun) and "كتابون" (kitaaboun) in Arabic, alongside their Swahili equivalents, "kalamu" and "kitabu," we illustrated the similarities between the two languages. This exercise allowed the students to experience Arabic calligraphy for the first time, revealing the beauty and precision of this ancient art form.
As they practiced writing these words, students not only learned about the intricate strokes and styles of calligraphy but also made meaningful connections between languages and cultures.
Student Reactions and Discussion
The response from students was overwhelmingly positive and filled with curiosity. As we introduced them to the themes of Le Monde de Sabbih, many students eagerly posed questions about Tanzania and Zanzibar, along with the Islamic practices in East Africa. For many, this was an opportunity to explore a region that is often less familiar to them.
In one particular classroom, a number of students spoke different Arabic dialects, including Tunisian, Algerian, Lebanese, Moroccan, and Palestinian. They took the initiative to share their linguistic knowledge with their peers, explaining the unique sounds of their dialects and demonstrating how to write certain vowels. This collaboration not only enriched the learning experience for everyone involved but also helped foster a sense of community and connection among the students. The exchange of linguistic and cultural insights turned into an engaging dialogue that highlighted the importance of understanding different backgrounds and experiences.
Our workshops fostered curiosity and respect for Islamic culture in East Africa and introduced students to the significance of language, art, and tradition in STEAM education. Through Le Monde de Sabbih, students not only expanded their understanding of Islamic heritage but also explored the cultural and linguistic diversity that enriches the Muslim world. These discoveries highlight the importance of multicultural and inclusive education, where each tradition finds its place and inspires future generations. This program, known as Trajectoire Littéraire, is funded by the Ontario Government’s Support Program for Ontario's Francophonie (PAFO), under the Community and Culture stream.
More info: Read the full article in French Le Monde de Sabbih More about SLAC - Mosaïque Interculturelle
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