Madaba, Aug. 2 (Petra) – The Madaba Institute for Mosaic Art and
Restoration (MIMAR) held a meeting on Sunday with representatives of
the University of Bologna, Italy, to discuss the development of the
institute’s academic curriculum.

The meeting reviewed the outcomes of a summer course recently held in
Ravenna, Italy, attended by the institute’s dean, Dr. Ahmad Amayreh,
as well as academic and administrative staff.

As part of the curriculum development process, members of the
institute’s teaching staff previously visited Ravenna to familiarize
themselves with Italian curricula and receive training on the Italian
educational approach. The initiative is intended to support revisions
to the institute’s study plan by increasing the focus on practical
training and incorporating Italian experience in mosaic production.

Participants also discussed ways to enhance the quality of the
institute’s academic and training programs to help students develop
practical skills in mosaic art and restoration while benefiting from
international expertise.

The meeting included a field inspection of the site designated for
the installation of a thermal kiln that has been shipped from Ravenna
and is expected to arrive next month.

Amayreh said the kiln will be used to produce a glass-based material
that combines the characteristics of glass with the appearance of
ceramic and natural stone. He added that the planned curriculum
revisions, with a stronger practical component, are intended to
support the institute’s educational and training programs while
contributing to the preservation of the mosaic craft.

//Petra//WH