I was mindlessly checking Facebook when I saw an ad about a school offering free Arabic lessons during the holy month of Ramadan. I visited their website (http://www.eton.ac/pages/ouroffer7.php) and true enough, free lessons and a cultural sensitivity workshop were in the offing. I dismissed the ad but a few days later, I came across a writeup in the papers stating the same thing. I decided to ask my sister-in-law Leslie if she was interested. Boy, was she a step ahead and already sent an inquiry via email!
Unfortunately, we were told that the slots were already filled up but we could still inquire the following week if any of the participants would be backing out. We were also informed that although the lessons would be free, we still have to pay 200 dirhams (1AED is roughly 12.50PHP, you do the math) for the course materials (a book which comes with 8 CDs). By now, Leslie's dogged determination must have rubbed off on me so I just closed my eyes and said that I will find a way to come up with that sum.
Last Thursday, we got the good news that a new timeslot would be opened since there were lots of inquiries. Neither one of us knew how to get to Knowledge Village (This is what they call the area solely created for the purpose of learning. The Knowledge Village is home to several universities and other learning institutions in Dubai.). However, this did not deter us from trying to secure slots for the course.
With only a map and some advice from friends, we took two buses and walked for about 15 minutes in the hot midday sun to reach the place. Luckily, there were still some slots left and we eagerly signed up for the course. As my wealth was still in Philippine peso (naks, wealth kuno...hahaha) and they had a credit card terminal, I just handed my credit card (my head was saying tsktsktsk!). Now, everything is settled. Whew!
Classes will be held every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday, from 4-5pm (During Ramadan, work hours are cut short). We will start Arabic lessons on Monday, yey! :)
I find it ironic that I still have time to take lessons when I have yet to find a job here, hehehe! This is just too good an opportunity to pass. Besides, I have always loved learning other languages. Learning basic Arabic will greatly help me in adjusting to life in the Gulf. I am glad to be taking baby steps towards accepting the reality of this adventure. It's also a good exercise for the brain plus this is a welcome change from my monotonous (read: idle) existence here. The prospect of meeting new people from other countries is a big bonus! It's time to be Miss Congeniality again! I am soooo excited! :)
My friends and I also signed up for the Cultural Sensitivity Workshop on 24 September 2008. It would be a good venue for further understanding the intricacies of living here in Dubai amidst a predominantly Muslim population.
I can't wait to start! :)
