publish time

27/12/2023

author name Arab Times

publish time

27/12/2023

KUWAIT CITY, Dec 27: The former Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Professor of Modern Literature in the Department of Arabic Language at Kuwait University, Dr. Souad Al-Abdulwahab, was honored by the French government with the "Academic Palme Medal" at the rank of Knight, reports Al-Jarida daily.

This recognition was bestowed in acknowledgment of her significant contributions to promoting French literature and culture within Kuwaiti society. The award ceremony, hosted by the French Ambassador to Kuwait, Claire Le Flecher, saw the presence of various French diplomats, academics, and Kuwaiti leaders.

The Palme d'Academic Medal, a prestigious French national decoration, is conferred upon distinguished academics and notable figures internationally in the realms of culture and education. During her speech at the ceremony, Al-Abdulwahab expressed her pride in receiving this esteemed medal, emphasizing its importance due to the noble academic objectives it has served over the years.

Al-Abdulwahab extended her gratitude to the French government, Ambassador Leflecher, and the director of the French Institute, Benoît Catala. She highlighted the significance of the medal in the context of its positive impact on generations of students.

Additionally, she acknowledged the efforts of individuals such as former director Cedric Davey and cultural cooperation attaché Benjamin Tonay, who played key roles in establishing a memorandum of cooperation between the college and the institute.

Expressing hope for the renewal of this memorandum, Al-Abdulwahab emphasized joint readiness for continued collaboration in the academic realm related to the French language and literature.

In her speech, Ambassador Leflecher commended Al-Abdulwahab's cultural role and contributions, praising her efforts in enhancing the portrayal of French literature and culture in Kuwaiti society, especially during her tenure as Dean of the College of Arts. Leflecher highlighted Al-Abdulwahab's support for the development of the French Language and Culture Department and her encouragement of Francophonie in Kuwait.

Recognizing Al-Abdulwahab's commitment to education and her role in strengthening relations with the French Research Center for the Arabian Peninsula in Kuwait, Leflecher expressed appreciation for her constructive cooperation. She concluded by acknowledging Al-Abdulwahab's well-deserved recognition, emphasizing her dedication to education and the promotion of the French language and culture.