Malka Al-Haddad

Native Arabic speaker, human-rights defender, published poet, and experienced academic with a Master’s in Arabic Language and a Master of Arts in Politics of Conflict and Violence (University of Leicester, 2021). Over 16 years of university-level teaching at Kufa University, Iraq, plus UK-based volunteer Arabic and Quran teaching. Author of two poetry collections and multiple academic research publications in Arabic and English. Experienced in curriculum design, editorial review, and community education, with a strong commitment to cultural and literary development.
Education
Master of Arts (MA), Politics of Conflict and Violence — University of Leicester, UK (July 2021)
Master’s Degree in Arabic Language / Arabic Literary Criticism — University of Kufa, Iraq 2002
Professional & Teaching Experience
Lecturer — Arabic & Literary Criticism
University of Kufa, Iraq — 16 years
- Taught classical and modern Arabic, grammar, literature, and Quranic Arabic at undergraduate and postgraduate levels
- Prepared curricula, assessments, and supervised student research
Volunteer Arabic & Quran Teacher
Sisters for Islam, Leicester
- Taught Arabic reading, writing, grammar, and Quranic studies to adult women
- Supported learners of different levels, enhancing confidence and language skills
Poetry Auditor / Editor
The Other Side of Hope Magazine, 2021–2024
- Reviewed and evaluated poetry submissions
- Provided constructive feedback on style, form, and thematic development
- Contributed to selection of high-quality publications, supporting refugee and diverse voices
Human Rights & Community Leadership
Women’s Centre for Culture & Art, Najaf-Al-Ashraf, Iraq
- Directed programs focusing on women’s rights, children’s rights, education, and cultural projects
- Represented human rights issues and educational initiatives (listed on Front Line Defenders profile)
Publications & Literary Work
Poetry Collections (English):
- Birds Without Sky: Poems from Exile
- The Truth at the End of the Night
Academic Research (Arabic & English):
- Multiple published papers on Arabic literature, culture, human rights, and refugee studies
Skills & Expertise
- Classical & Modern Standard Arabic, Quranic Arabic (reading, recitation, tajweed)
- Arabic literature, grammar, morphology, and academic writing
- Curriculum development and lesson planning for children, teens, and adults
- Editorial experience, poetry review, and creative writing mentoring
- Human rights research, refugee and women’s rights advocacy
- Bilingual: Arabic (native), English (proficient)
- Online and in-person teaching experience