A new batch of the "Dhives Akuru" learning course has begun with 20 participants.
The course is being conducted at the National Centre for Cultural Heritage building.
Organised by the Dhivehi Language Academy, the course teaches 'Dhives Akuru', the ancient script formerly used for writing the Dhivehi language. The programme will run for 10 days and commenced with 20 participants.
Speaking at the opening of the course, the President of the Dhivehi Language Academy, Hassan Shakir Mohamed, highlighted the long history of the programme. He stated that the course had originally begun over 40 years ago during the days of the national institution dedicated to Dhivehi language and history. He also noted that the Academy itself has continued conducting the course over the past 15 years.
Hassan Shakir further said that a large number of people had shown interest when applications for the course were opened.
“When we announced the course, a great many people applied. Although there were only 20 places available, more than 100 people applied to participate. We selected 20 participants. In the future, if circumstances allow, we hope to create opportunities for more interested people to take part,” he said.
He also encouraged participants to attend regularly and complete the course in order to obtain their certificates.
In addition, he said that learning 'Dhives Akuru' not only provides another means of communication, but also opens a window into Maldivian history.
The course is taught by experienced instructor Al Qari Ahmed Rasheed Abdul Qadir, who has taught many previous batches of the programme. He is assisted by Khadheeja Hassan Manik. According to the Academy, both instructors are highly experienced in the field.
The Dhivehi Language Academy stated that conducting courses on reading and writing 'Dhives Akuru' is an important responsibility mandated under its legal obligations.