Arabic Software Innovator Mohammed Al-Sharekh, the Kuwaiti entrepreneur and trailblazer in the field of technology, breathed his last on Wednesday at the age of 82. His remarkable journey marked by innovation, determination, and a commitment to linguistic diversity has left an indelible mark on the world of digital communication.
Revolutionizing Technology for Arabic Speakers
Breaking Language Barriers
During the early 1980s, as computers predominantly catered to English speakers, Mohammed Al-Sharekh identified a significant gap for non-English speakers. Undeterred by the challenge, he embarked on a mission to create the first Arabic-language operating system for computers, ultimately founding the Al-Alamiah Group in 1980.
Arabic Software Innovator-Sakhr Software Company: A Hub of Innovation
Pioneering Arabic-Language Processing
In 1982, Al-Sharekh established Sakhr Software Company, a hub for research and development in Arabic-language processing. The company not only secured multiple patents related to Arabic in computing but also became the sole holder of three US patents in the Middle East North Africa region, a testament to its groundbreaking contributions.
Global Recognition and Collaboration
Microsoft Partnership and Beyond
By 1986, Al-Sharekh’s company, Sakhr Software, became Microsoft’s Arabic-language localization services provider, solidifying its global presence. The company’s accomplishments extended beyond borders, providing Arabic-to-English machine translation and optical character recognition for languages using Arabic scripts.
A Career of Public Service and Leadership
Beyond Technology: A Multifaceted Leader
Before his foray into technology, Al-Sharekh served as the deputy director-general for the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development. He also represented Kuwait and the Arab Group at the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development in Washington, D.C. Al-Sharekh’s leadership extended to co-founding and chairing the board of directors of the Industrial Bank of Kuwait.
Accolades and Recognition
Honors and Awards
Throughout his illustrious career, Mohammed Al-Sharekh received numerous accolades. In 2021, he was awarded the prestigious King Faisal International Prize for his outstanding service to Islam, Islamic studies, Arabic language and literature, medicine, and science. His contributions were further acknowledged with the State Prize in 2018 from the National Council for Culture, Arts, and Letters in Kuwait, among other honors.
Legacy of Inclusivity and Bridging Cultures
The E-Visionary’s Impact
Al-Sharekh’s work transcended technology, fostering inclusivity in the digital age by bridging linguistic and cultural divides. His dedication to breaking language barriers has inspired a new generation of technologists and paved the way for greater accessibility and understanding in the ever-evolving landscape of digital communication.
Conclusion: A Lasting Impact
Honoring a Visionary
As we bid farewell to Mohammed Al-Sharekh, we reflect on the legacy of a visionary who not only revolutionized technology for Arabic speakers but also dedicated his life to the service of others. His journey from economics and political science studies to the forefront of technology exemplifies a commitment to pushing boundaries, fostering inclusivity, and leaving an enduring impact on the world. Mohammed Al-Sharekh’s legacy will undoubtedly continue to shape the intersection of language, culture, and technology for years to come.
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