Persian Language Center for Non-Native Speakers

The Persian Language Teaching Center for Non-Native Speakers (Azfa) at the University of Kurdistan is a pioneering academic institution dedicated to the expansion and instruction of the Persian language for international applicants.

This Center officially commenced its in-person educational activities on April 9, 2017 (20 Farvardin 1396), after receiving formal authorization from the Ministry of Science, Research and Technology (MSRT). Its well-equipped building was inaugurated on November 16, 2019 (25 Aban 1398), with the presence of high-ranking MSRT officials and the President of the University of Kurdistan.

Committed to quality and innovation, the Center extensively expanded its educational activities into the virtual realm starting in March 2020 (Esfand 1398), coinciding with the outbreak of the Coronavirus pandemic. Azfa at the University of Kurdistan quickly established a prominent position in online Persian language education by consistently holding courses across various levels. This success was highlighted in January 2021 (Dey 1399) when the Center was entrusted with the responsibility of establishing the Chair for the Expansion of Virtual Persian Language Education in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. This development led to a significant increase in participants from across Iran and abroad. For instance, in the 2021 academic year (1400), over 1,000 language learners attended 106 training classes, a growth trend that has continued through 2024 (1403), with the admission of 982 language learners in 93 courses.

The Persian Language Teaching Center proudly introduces Dr. Najmeddin Jabbari, Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Language and Literature and Director of the Persian Language and Literature Department, as its new Head. Dr. Jabbari assumes leadership with an exceptional academic record and expertise in Literature, Literary Genres, Folklore, and Epic Literature. Furthermore, more than 30 expert and experienced instructors with PhD and Master's degrees, alongside proficient administrative staff, are dedicated to delivering high-quality education and comprehensive support to all language learners.

The Center's curriculum extends beyond mere language acquisition to include exposure to Iran's rich culture and civilization. Throughout their courses, learners enhance their listening skills by participating in social film screenings and workshops, alongside attending cultural and recreational excursions to historical sites in Kurdistan province and neighboring regions. Upon the conclusion of each course, comprehensive exams are held, and a recognized certificate, validated by all universities in Iran and Iraq, is awarded to participants.

Azfa at the University of Kurdistan plays a crucial role in administering the international SAMFA (Standardized Assessment of Persian Language Proficiency) exam. Since 2018 (1397), the Center has hosted this exam multiple times, demonstrating its credibility with a remarkable number of learners achieving high scores at the national level. Following the MSRT's assignment of the responsibility for holding the SAMFA exam in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq to the University of Kurdistan starting in the winter of 2022 (Dey 1400), a substantial increase in applicants from that region is anticipated. The Center also maintains a close collaboration with the Nami Institute in Sulaymaniyah, and the certificates issued by this institute are also recognized in both Iran and Iraq under the supervision of Azfa Kurdistan.

By leveraging specialized faculty, modern and advanced educational facilities, and invaluable experience in teaching Persian to non-native speakers, the University of Kurdistan's Persian Language Teaching Center is committed to the quantitative and qualitative expansion of its educational programs. It is hoped that these efforts will be an effective step towards realizing the high academic and cultural goals of Islamic Iran on an international level.

 

Dr. Najmeddin Jabbari

 

Head, Persian Language Center

  • B.A. in Persian Language and Literature, Tarbiat Moallem University, Tabriz, Iran (1991 - 1995)

  • M.A. in Persian Language and Literature, Allameh Tabataba'i University, Tehran, Iran (1995 - 1998)

  • Ph.D. in Persian Language and Literature, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran (1998 - 2002)

 

Persian Language Training Courses

 

The Persian Language Teaching Center at the University of Kurdistan offers comprehensive and diverse training courses for non-native speakers with the aim of promoting and expanding the Persian language and literature globally. Utilizing the latest teaching methodologies and curricula approved by the Ministry of Science, Research and Technology, these courses prepare applicants for entry into the academic and cultural environments of Iran.

 

1. Enrollment Requirements and Educational Levels

 

Completing the Persian language training courses (including the Beginner and Elementary levels) is mandatory for all international applicants planning to start their studies at Iranian universities from September 2024 (Mehr 1403). Failure to meet this prerequisite will prevent the student from attending regular university classes.

The training courses are offered at different levels and hours based on the nationality and needs of the language learners:

  • Kurdish-Speaking Learners: 360 hours of instruction across four courses (Elementary, Intermediate 1, Intermediate 2, and Advanced).

  • Arabic-Speaking Learners: 450 hours of instruction across five courses (Beginner, Elementary, Intermediate 1, Intermediate 2, and Advanced).

  • Other Foreign Learners: 540 hours of instruction across six courses (Beginner, Elementary 1, Elementary 2, Intermediate 1, Intermediate 2, and Advanced).

 

2. Types of Training Courses

 

The Azfa Center offers a variety of courses to meet the different needs of applicants:

  • Academic Persian Language Courses (3 to 6 months): These courses are designed for individuals intending to pursue higher education at Iranian universities. In addition to general Persian language acquisition, they cover academic language and specialized terminology for each field of study. These classes are held in-person for University of Kurdistan students and virtually for all other students.

  • General Persian Language Courses (1, 2 months, and longer): These courses are suitable for all individuals interested in learning Persian, with no requirement for further academic studies. The content is tailored to the needs and proficiency level of the learners.

  • Persian Language Teacher Training Courses: These specialized courses are held to enhance the professional skills of instructors and those interested in teaching Persian to non-native speakers.

 

3. Delivery Methods and Educational Facilities

 

The Center's classes are offered in two formats: in-person and online (virtual):

  • In-Person Courses: Each course includes 90 instructional hours over 45 sessions, conducted across six weeks. These classes are implemented in a dynamic environment, focusing on direct interaction between the instructor and the learners.

  • Virtual (Online) Courses: These courses are delivered via the dedicated "VClass" system (vclass.uok.ac.ir). Online classes are held with the same quality as in-person classes, offering similar teaching methods, academic standards, and access to classroom features (such as a virtual whiteboard, exercise solving, and interaction with the instructor and classmates).

Standard educational resources include the textbooks "Parfai 1, 2, 3" and "Parfai Alphabet," which are provided to learners as PDF files, illustrated books, and with audio files to facilitate the learning process.

 

4. Support and Extracurricular Activities

 

Azfa Center provides extensive support services through virtual networks (from 8 AM to 12 AM) to comprehensively assist language learners. This support includes resolving system and educational issues, and guidance on registration and payment matters.

Beyond formal instruction, cultural and recreational extracurricular activities are arranged to enhance learners' familiarity with Iranian culture and civilization. These activities include film reviews and critiques, language games, discussion workshops, storytelling, and in-city and out-of-city excursions (including visits to museums, historical, and recreational sites). These initiatives significantly enrich the language learners' experience.

 

Assessment Exams at the University of Kurdistan Persian Language Teaching Center

 

Assessments are an integral part of the instruction and evaluation process at the University of Kurdistan Persian Language Teaching Center, designed to accurately measure Persian learners' language knowledge and skills. This section details both the Center's national and internal exams, which guarantee the academic integrity of the courses offered.

 

1. Standardized Assessment of Persian Language Proficiency (SAMFA) Exam

 

The SAMFA exam is a national, standardized test that assesses the level of Persian language ability of non-native speakers for entry into Iranian universities. The University of Kurdistan Persian Language Teaching Center, in collaboration with the National Organization of Educational Testing (Sanjesh), has hosted multiple rounds of this exam.

  • Scheduling: The 14th round of the SAMFA exam will be held on Friday, January 30, 2025 (12 Bahman 1403).

  • Registration Period: Applicants can register from December 23, 2024, to December 28, 2024 (02/10/1403 to 07/10/1403).

  • Format: This exam is conducted fully electronically and assesses the four core skills of Speaking, Listening, Writing, and Reading at the University of Kurdistan Persian Language Center.

  • Certificate Validity: SAMFA certificates are valid for two years and are recognized at all universities and academic centers in Iran.

  • Regional Role: Following the MSRT directive, the responsibility for administering the Standardized Assessment of Persian Language Proficiency exam in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq has also been delegated to the University of Kurdistan, highlighting the Center's pivotal role in the region.

 

2. End-of-Course and Placement Exams

 

Azfa Center conducts internal end-of-course exams to evaluate learners' progress throughout the training periods. These exams ensure that Persian learners meet the minimum required standards for advancement to higher levels or for receiving the end-of-course certificate.

  • Passing Score: The passing score for each course is set at 65 out of 100. This score is calculated from the total of Class Activities (40 points, including attendance, homework, and midterm exam), Written or Direct Skills Exam (50 points), and Oral or Specific Course Exam (10 points).

  • Exam Conditions: The examination schedule is announced to learners at the beginning of each course. Should a learner be unable to attend the end-of-course exams for any reason, the Center is not responsible for rescheduling the exam, except with special permission from the Center Head.

  • Consequences of Failure or Absence: In case of failing the exams, the learner is required to pay the fee for the repeated half-course or repeated course. Furthermore, excessive unauthorized absence leads to being barred from the end-of-course exam and necessitates repeating the course.

  • Placement Exam: A placement exam is held for Persian learners who apply to register for higher levels or who have prior familiarity with the Persian language. This exam is designed to place the learner into an instructional level commensurate with their abilities. The fee for this exam is 1,200,000 Rials.

 

Academic Calendar of the University of Kurdistan Persian Language Teaching Center

 

The academic calendar of the University of Kurdistan Persian Language Teaching Center serves as a precise roadmap for all international Persian learners, covering both in-person and online courses. This consistently scheduled calendar offers multiple opportunities for applicants and those interested in learning Persian to plan accurately.

 

1. Course Start and Duration

 

Training courses at the University of Kurdistan Persian Language Teaching Center begin at the start of every Solar Hijri month. This regular timing provides multiple opportunities for enrollment and commencement of learning.

  • Duration of Each In-Person Course: Each in-person course comprises 6 weeks of intensive instruction, equivalent to 45 sessions and 90 instructional hours. This intensive structure helps Persian learners achieve significant progress in their language skills in the shortest possible time.

 

2. Academic Year Calendar 2024-2025 (October 2024 to October 2025)

 

The following calendar provides the precise scheduling details for the upcoming academic year's courses. This table includes key dates for the start and end of each course, as well as the timing for mid-term and final exams:

(Please note: As the original document includes a table, the precise table structure is not replicated here, but the data is implied to be available within the Center's official documentation.)

 

3. Official Holidays

 

Dear Persian learners must take note of the Nowruz official holidays, which will run from March 15, 2025, to April 4, 2025 (25 Esfand 1403 to 15 Farvardin 1404). Course scheduling has been managed to account for these holidays, ensuring no disruption to the educational process.

 

Rules and Regulations of the University of Kurdistan Persian Language Teaching Center

 

To ensure quality and order in the educational process, the University of Kurdistan Persian Language Teaching Center has established a set of codified rules and regulations. Familiarity with and adherence to these guidelines are mandatory for all Persian learners to have a successful and smooth experience throughout their course of study.

 

1. Admission and Placement

 

Admission of Persian learners to the Center is only conducted through official correspondence from the University's "International Students Office." This procedure ensures coordination and compliance with university regulations. It is important to note that the Center is solely responsible for Persian language instruction and does not have any commitment regarding other matters concerning international students.

  • Placement Exam: Persian learners who already have a familiarity with the Persian language or intend to register for higher levels must take the placement exam. This exam is designed to place the learner in a level commensurate with their actual abilities. The fee for this exam is 1,200,000 Rials.

 

2. Attendance, Absence, and Disciplinary Regulations

 

Regular attendance in all classes according to the provided schedule is essential for Persian learners. Discipline and regularity play a key role in academic progress.

  • Leave of Absence: Persian learners may take a leave of absence during the course, but they must first obtain and complete the leave request form from the Center's office. Visa extension and medical certificates are not subject to the regular leave regulations.

  • Tardiness: Tardiness in entering classes is calculated according to the table below and counted as an absence:

    • Four instances of tardiness less than 15 minutes: Equivalent to one session of absence.

    • Two instances of tardiness between 15 to 30 minutes: Equivalent to one session of absence.

    • Tardiness exceeding half an hour: Equivalent to one session of absence.

  • Grade Deduction and Exclusion: One point will be deducted from the course grade for every session of absence without an approved leave of absence. Excessive unauthorized absence will result in exclusion from the end-of-course exam, and the Persian learner will be required to re-register and repeat the course to continue their studies in the subject.

 

3. Exam Participation and Certificate Issuance

 

The examination schedule is announced to Persian learners at the beginning of each course. If Persian learners are unable to participate in the end-of-course exams for any reason, the Center will not be responsible for holding a makeup exam, except with special permission from the Center Head.

  • Passing Score Threshold: A score of 65 out of 100 is the passing threshold for each training course. This score comprises 40 points for class activities (10 points attendance, 10 points homework and assignments, 20 points midterm exam), 50 points for the written or direct skills exam, and 10 points for the oral or specific course exam.

  • Course Repetition Fee: Should the learner fail to achieve the passing score in the exams, they must pay the fee for the repeated half-course or repeated course based on the Center's approved tariff.

  • Certificate Issuance: Following the exams and the announcement of passing grades, a recognized certificate will be issued by Azfa Kurdistan. These certificates are viewable and downloadable on the LMS system, and learners do not need to physically visit the Center to obtain their certificate.

 

4. Tuition Fee

 

The tuition fee for the Persian language training courses is the Rial equivalent of $250 USD at the government rate for three months of instruction. This amount is set for classes with a minimum capacity of 12 people and is subject to change according to the directive of the University's Presidium. It should be noted that the tuition collected is solely for class participation and does not cover other expenses.

 

Systems and Communication Channels of the University of Kurdistan Persian Language Teaching Center

 

The University of Kurdistan Persian Language Teaching Center utilizes modern technologies and diverse communication channels to facilitate Persian learners' access to educational services and necessary information. These systems and communication methods serve as a bridge between the Center, instructors, and learners.

 

1. Online Educational and Management Systems

 

To enhance the educational and management experience, Azfa Center uses two key systems:

  • Learning Management System (LMS) – LIMES:

    • Portal Address: plcms.uok.ac.ir

    • This comprehensive system supports all educational matters online, including registration, placement, grade entry and viewing, transcript issuance, and attendance management. Upon completion of the course and achieving a passing grade, learners can easily download and print their certificate through this system.

  • Virtual Classes System – VClass:

    • Portal Address: vclass.uok.ac.ir

    • This dedicated platform is designed for holding virtual Persian language training classes. The online classes are identical to in-person classes in terms of quality, teaching methods, and interaction with the instructor and other Persian learners. Learners do not require complex computer skills to use this system, and necessary training is provided before classes begin.

 

2. Direct Communication Channels

 

Several direct communication channels are provided for quick and effective communication with the Persian Language Teaching Center:

  • Center Email:

    • plc@uok.ac.ir

    • This email address is available for all official correspondence, sending requests, and receiving general information about the Center.

  • WhatsApp Numbers:

    • +989961879633 (General WhatsApp number for the Persian Language Teaching Center)

    • 09033705687 (WhatsApp number for the Virtual Education Center)

    • These numbers are active from 8 AM to 12 AM for fast support, responding to frequently asked questions, and resolving potential issues for learners.

  • Direct Center Telephone:

    • 08733660064

    • 08733624015 (Extension 2601)

    • These telephone lines are available during office hours for direct calls and receiving necessary guidance from the Center's experts.

  • Social Media ID:

    • @plcuok (Accessible on platforms such as Facebook, Telegram, and Instagram)

    • t.m/PersianLanguageK (Dedicated Telegram channel for the Center)

    • These channels are active in Persian, Arabic, and English for continuous dissemination of information, news, events, visual reports of classes, and interaction with language learners.