The Department of Arabic Philology is one of the leading departments of the faculty, which has accumulated rich experience over the years in scientific, educational, methodological, and instructional work. The department was established in 1968 through the initiative and direct involvement of Professor Vladimir Pavlovich Demidchik, a graduate of Saint Petersburg University (formerly Leningrad). Professor V.P. Demidchik led the department until the last days of his life (1987). His contributions to the development of Tajik Arab studies are commendable.
From 1988 to 2004, the department was headed by Honorary Professor Matin Sharipovich Khuseynzoda, who played an important role in training specialists in Arabic studies. From 2004 to 2012, the department was led by Doctor of Philology, Professor Saidrahmon Sulaimonov, who made a significant contribution to the development of the department. From 2013 to 2016, the department was headed by Candidate of Philological Sciences, Associate Professor Askar Salomov, and from 2017 to 2020, it was managed by Candidate of Philological Sciences, Associate Professor Tojidin Yakubov.
Since February 2020, the department has been headed by Candidate of Philological Sciences, Associate Professor Marhabo Rajabova. Today, the department employs 16 experienced instructors, including 2 professors, 7 associate professors, 4 senior lecturers, and 3 assistants. Most faculty members are graduates of the faculty and have experience working and studying in Arab and other countries.
Even during the Soviet period, the department’s faculty members engaged in translation, teaching, and research activities in Arab countries. Among them were Professor M. Khuseynzoda at the University of Sana’a (Yemen, 1967), Associate Professor K. Musofirov at the University of Baghdad (Iraq, 1966), Senior Lecturer M. Tokhirov at Cairo University (Egypt, 1967), as well as Professor Sulaimonov S. (Yemen and Iraq), and Associate Professor M. Shodiev (Syria). After gaining independence, this tradition continued. For example, Associate Professor Salomov A. conducted research at Mohammed V University (Morocco, 2001-2003). Many faculty members, such as Associate Professors Isaev F., Rajabova M., Nuriddinova Sh., Ismonov K., and Senior Lecturer Ilyosov F., have also undergone professional training in Egypt.
