Mariam Mohammad Shamak Wins Arabic Reading Challenge in Mauritania
The ninth edition of the Arabic Reading Challenge concludes with Mariam Mohammad Shamak crowned champion amidst record participation.
Mariam Mohammad Shamak has been named the champion of the Arabic Reading Challenge in its ninth edition for the Islamic Republic of Mauritania.
The announcement was made during the concluding ceremony held in the capital city, Nouakchott, following a competitive selection process that involved 261,662 students representing 235 schools under the supervision of 1,889 monitors.
This initiative is regarded as one of the largest reading events in the Arabic language worldwide.
Mariam, a fourth-grade student at Al-Fajr School in northern Nouakchott, was recognized for her accomplishment alongside her school, which received the 'Outstanding School' award.
Additionally, Khatijah Mohammad Baid, also from northern Nouakchott, was honored as the 'Outstanding Supervisor' at the national level.
From the initial group, ten students advanced to the final stages of the competition, which included Mariam and highlighted other notable participants including Mohamed Mustafa, a 13th-grade student from Al-Imtiaz 2 High School in southern Nouakchott, and Al-Mourabit Sidi Mahmoud from the 9th grade at Al-Imtiaz 3 High School (northern Nouakchott).
Other finalists hailed from various schools in the region, demonstrating a diverse representation across grade levels.
Dr. Huda Babah, the Minister of Education and Reform of the Educational System in Mauritania, acknowledged the ambitious knowledge-based initiatives launched by the United Arab Emirates, emphasizing the importance of the Arabic Reading Challenge.
She remarked that it embodies the advanced vision of the UAE and the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives in equipping students with the necessary skills in knowledge and sciences, essential for fostering a prosperous Arab future grounded in language and learning.
Dr. Fawzan Al-Khalidi, Director of Programs and Initiatives at the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, praised the serious commitment exhibited by the students of Mauritania throughout the competition.
He noted the notable cultural achievements and significant interest in the Arabic language among participants, stating that their accomplishments reflect the dedicated efforts of the Ministry of Education and its initiatives to provide students with all the resources they need to participate effectively.
The ninth edition of the Arabic Reading Challenge witnessed unprecedented participation, with more than 32.2 million students from 50 countries and 132,112 schools, overseen by over 161,000 supervisors.
This level of engagement underscores the initiative’s success in promoting reading and education in the Arab world.
Dr. Al-Khalidi offered his congratulations to Mariam Mohammad Shamak, her family, and all first-place participants, as well as to the educational institution and staff involved in the successful execution of the challenge across various Mauritanian states.