Ala’ Al-Turki, a Campus GATE student majoring in Hydrogen Engineering at the German Jordanian University (GJU), has recently launched the university’s first-ever German Club, aiming to make learning the German language more engaging and accessible while deepening cultural ties between Jordan and Germany.
Having reached an impressive C1 level in German proficiency during her first year, Al-Turki was inspired to create a welcoming space where students can practise the language, explore cultural aspects, and prepare for their study year in Germany — all while having fun and connecting with others. She highlighted that GJU’s Hosted Programmes helped her achieve a high level of technical and linguistic competence that will benefit her future career.
As the President of the German Club, alongside 16 dedicated Board Members, Al-Turki has already begun organizing activities. “We want to make the German language easier for everyone,” she said. “Many students find pronunciation challenging, so we try to make it fun and engaging.” The club’s mission extends beyond language learning, introducing students to German culture, traditions, and daily life through interactive sessions, themed events, and celebrations such as Christmas and cultural discussion forums.
The club’s first event, held last week, featured a linguistic treasure hunt and cultural quiz, which brought together around 20 students of different proficiency levels in an atmosphere of teamwork and enjoyment. The next activity will be a regular speaking session starting on November 12, designed to encourage conversational practice in a supportive setting.
Al-Turki expressed how meaningful it has been to meet students from diverse majors and backgrounds: “University is not just about lectures — it’s about making connections,” she said. The club is open to all GJU students, with one simple requirement: motivation to learn German.
She also extended her gratitude to Ms. Jacqueline Rogler, Director of the German Language Center (GLC), for her continuous support. Since its establishment in early October, the German Club has quickly become one of the largest student clubs at GJU, according to the Deanship of Student Affairs (DSA). The club currently has 150 registered members and over 220 active participants across its communication platforms. It is also the second student club founded by Hosted Programmes students, following the launch of the Hydrogen Club earlier this year.
Looking ahead, the German Club plans to organize seminars with the German attaché, guest talks about life in Germany, and other language and cultural events. One of Al-Turki’s long-term goals is to arrange a study trip to Germany for dedicated members to practise the language and experience the culture firsthand, pending funding opportunities.
This initiative reflects Campus GATE’s mission to strengthen transnational connections between Jordan and Germany, promote intercultural understanding, and empower students to succeed in both academic and cultural contexts.