Cultural Culinary Activity for Arabic Language Students

On Tuesday, 16 April 2025, Bethlehem University’s Brother Vincent Melhem Center (BVMC) hosted a special cultural event that gave international Arabic language learners a chance to learn about Palestinian culinary traditions.

During the spring semester, the students took part in a hands-on tasting session of the popular seasonal dish “Maqluba” and “Foul Al-Akhdar”, a traditional Palestinian meal, as part of the immersive learning approach of the Arabic language program. In addition to being a culinary experience, this activity provided an interesting window into the traditions, stories, and cultural values that are ingrained in Palestinian cuisine.

Ms. Nadia Bani Shamsa, Director of BVMC, said that the students expressed their excitement for the exercise, emphasizing how it deepened their comprehension of Palestinian life outside of the classroom.

The activity reflected the Center’s commitment to promoting cultural exchange and deepening students’ connection to the Arabic language through experiential learning.

The Brother Vincent Melhem Center continues to offer diverse educational experiences aimed at fostering intercultural dialogue and appreciation of Palestinian identity and traditions.