CHSS courses aim at developing skills needed at the professional level

The Translation and Training Center, part of the Translation and Interpreting Institute (TII) at Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), recently offered a foundational workshop geared toward translation students, new entrants to the profession, and communication professionals aspiring to specialize in translation.

Held from September 25-28, “Professional Translation Basics” introduced participants to the basics of professional translation with the aim of developing the skills they require to become effective translators in a wide range of disciplines. These may include general, legal, sports, and business translation.

Focusing on specific aspects of Arabic as a target language in translation, the sessions helped trainees gain an understanding of how Arabic differs linguistically and stylistically from English. Among other things, the focus was on translation techniques, search tools, self-revision/proofreading, and ethical issues in translation. The workshop’s practice-oriented approach ensured that participants could develop their translation competence and quality control skills.

Through guided, practical group-work sessions with workshop leader Sayed Mohamed, Senior Translation Specialist at TII’s Translation and Training Center, participants gained first-hand experience in routine work in a professional setting. A wide range of texts were chosen to reflect various genres and fields such as education, business and finance, media, law, science, and technology.

Sayed Mohamed said: “The course was designed to focus on the fundamentals that go into the delivery of high-quality translation services. It focused on helping participants link concepts with practices and apply theoretical knowledge to solving challenges and common problems translators face in their day-to-day work. With these skills, participants can further their development and make meaningful contributions in professional settings.”

For more information and to enroll in forthcoming courses presented by the Translation and Interpreting Institute, please visit https://tii.qa/en/community.