On April 7, 2025, the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences (FSHS) and the Faculty of Letters, Languages, and Arts (FLLA) at Ibn Tofail University (UIT) organized an international conference titled “Bridging Humanities Through Transversal Skills in Language Education.” This important event brought together educators, researchers, and professionals to discuss the future of education through the lens of transversal skills and their role in language learning.
The conference was aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, especially those focused on quality education and equal opportunities. It aimed to explore how soft skills and digital tools can reshape teaching and learning in higher education.
A Rich Program with Inspiring Topics
The day began with a keynote speech that set the tone for the conference, followed by two panel discussions:
- Panel 1: Integration of Digital Tools and Learning Modalities in English Language Education
This session focused on how technology is being used in language classrooms to create more interactive and effective learning experiences. - Panel 2: Development and Impact of Transversal Skills in Higher Education
This panel explored essential skills beyond traditional curricula, such as communication, leadership, and adaptability, and how educators are helping students develop them. Key topics included various topics such as :
- Learning Beyond the Curriculum: The Role of Educators in Teaching Soft Skills for Real-World Success
- Effective Leadership Communication as a Transversal Skill for Teachers: Inspiring and Empowering Language Learners
These discussions highlighted the growing importance of preparing students for real-life challenges, not just academic achievements.
Expert Speakers and International Participation
Speakers included professors from various Moroccan universities and international institutions, including KU Leuven University (Belgium). Their talks were rich with insights, showing how transversal skills are becoming an integral part of teaching practices. These skills help students become more independent and adaptable in a fast-changing world.
A Highlight of Innovation: Virtual Tabadoul
One of the most talked-about moments of the conference was the presentation of a groundbreaking project by Prof. Hdouch Youcef, Head of the English Department at FLLA- UIT. His project, Virtual Tabadoul, introduced a new way to teach both language and culture through virtual reality. This innovative approach surprised and impressed many attendees and sparked a lively discussion about the future of immersive learning in language education.
A Successful and Meaningful Event
The organizing committee expressed great satisfaction with the event’s success. Both guest speakers and participants praised the conference for its rich content, professional organization, and impactful discussions.
The conference was a clear reminder of how transversal skills, when integrated into language education, can contribute to a more inclusive, innovative, and effective learning environment. It also showed how collaboration between faculties and international experts can drive forward-thinking change in higher education.