The Urdu Forum, a community-driven initiative in Queensland, has reached a milestone, celebrating five years of offering free Urdu language classes. This not-for-profit organisation, recognised as a registered charity, has been steadfast in its mission to promote Urdu language and literature, with a keen focus on education.
Urdu is among the ten most widely spoken languages globally, with over 650 million speakers. In Australia, census data reveals more than 111,000 Urdu speakers, making it the 14th most common language spoken at home. This growing linguistic footprint is what sparked the Urdu Forum’s journey in 2019.
The free classes began in response to parents concerned about their children losing touch with their heritage. For many school-going children, speaking Urdu fluently at home was no longer enough; the inability to read or write the language posed a barrier. The Forum’s tailored classes cater to children, young learners with varying proficiency levels, and adults, providing an inclusive, supportive learning environment.
Starting modestly, the programme has flourished. Today, over 170 students have benefited from these classes. The Forum now runs separate sessions for younger students based on their linguistic ability and a dedicated class for adults. This success is made possible by a team of volunteer teachers who offer personalised mentoring, ensuring that learning is approachable and enjoyable.
The Forum’s commitment hasn’t gone unnoticed. In 2024, it earned the SBS APNA Education and Empowerment Award, a nod to its impact on education and community empowerment. The same year, it expanded its teaching methods to include information technology and online classes, furthering accessibility.
As the only provider of free Urdu language classes in Queensland, the Forum continues to play a pivotal role in connecting generations to their cultural roots. Classes are held every Sunday at Acacia Ridge Hall in Brisbane, fostering a space where language is not just taught but lived.
For those eager to learn, registrations are open. Urdu Forum’s work exemplifies how grassroots efforts can make a lasting impact, creating a bridge between the past and the present, one word at a time.
For more details or to enrol, contact Ghazal Basit on 0412 076 864 or Naveed Kureshi on 0404 513 153, or email urduforumbrisbane@gmail.com
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