On October 10th, LebNet organized a webinar on Navigating AI in EdTech for Arabic Language and Culture Learning, moderated by Alefb's founder, and featuring leaders from Ostaz, QCRI (Qatar Computing Research Institute), Falafel Games, and KamKalima.
Jeanine Akiki, Executive Director of LebNet, opened the session by acknowledging Lebanon’s challenges and encouraging continued support from the LebNet community.
Michelle Tager stressed the importance of persevering despite regional challenges and expressed excitement about moderating the panel, since Alefb will likely be using GenAI to enhance Arabic learning while preserving cultural heritage. She emphasized involving all stakeholders—teachers, students, administrators, and parents—to ensure AI fosters individuality and diversity rather than uniformity.
The panel explored how AI, Gen Ai, gamification, and innovative tools are transforming Arabic language learning while addressing linguistic and cultural challenges, as well as privacy, authenticity, accuracy, regulations, and readiness in education.
Audrey Nakad highlighted how AI has streamlined processes at Ostaz, reducing onboarding time and costs while enhancing educational content.
Vincent Ghossoub discussed how Falafel Games uses AI for adaptive learning and content creation in educational tools.
Natasa Milic-Frayling of QCRI emphasized the importance of culturally relevant Arabic data in AI models. She also shared two AI-powered applications: QVoice, which provides feedback on Arabic pronunciation, and NUMUe, which facilitates personalized learning and helps teachers with lesson planning via generative AI. The AI assistant Sidr further supports students during their practice.
Nisrine El-Makkouk of KamKalima explained how AI tools like Fahim, an intelligent assistant, help students learn modern standard Arabic.
The panel also addressed challenges such as limited Arabic data and the need to upskill teachers, emphasizing the importance of creating learning ecosystems that balance modern technology with cultural preservation.
The webinar provided a well-rounded discussion on AI's evolving role in EdTech and its impact on Arabic language and culture learning, giving attendees valuable insights into both the opportunities and challenges ahead. Watch the full webinar
here.
The audience was very engaged and expressed a desire for more tools to preserve the Arabic language language and culture.
As a special offer for the LebNet community, Michelle Tager shared exclusive resources from Alefb:
