Amman: 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.
According to Jordan News Agency, 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.