Title : A Descriptive Case Study of the Translation Section at the Department of English, University of Zawia: Achievements and Challenges

Abstract

This study presents a descriptive case study of the Translation Division within the Department of English at the Faculty of Arts, University of Zawia, which was established during the 2017–2018 academic year as the first specialized translation program in the Zawia region. The study aims to evaluate the division’s achievements and identify the structural challenges that hinder the realization of its stated objectives.  The research adopts a descriptive case study approach, drawing on two sources of data: the program’s official academic Profile (2023), which includes the curriculum, course descriptions, faculty profiles, and infrastructure-related information; and the researcher’s direct field observations in her capacity as a faculty member in the department.  The findings reveal three major achievements. First, the program has successfully undergone an institutional transition from a general English language teaching model to a specialized translation program. Second, it has graduated several cohorts of students while supervising undergraduate research projects in Translation Studies. Third, both faculty members and students have demonstrated consistent adherence to institutional regulations, academic schedules, and administrative procedures. At the same time, the study identifies three major structural challenges. The curriculum postpones translation competence–based courses until the later stages of the program, omits courses on computer-assisted translation (CAT) tools and artificial intelligence applications, and provides no field training hours. Furthermore, instruction relies heavily on theoretical lectures delivered by faculty members who are not specialized in Translation Studies, with limited opportunities for workshops or authentic translation practice. Finally, the study documents the absence of specialized infrastructure necessary for effective translator training. The study concludes by offering practical recommendations aimed at building upon the division’s achievements and bridging the gap between its declared objectives and its current institutional reality.