Safaa Blila

Dr. Safaa Blila is a Lecturer in the Department of Languages, Literatures and Cultures at Toronto Metropolitan University. She previously served as the Continuing Education Academic Coordinator and Arabic test administrator. Her research focuses on sociolinguistic issues in Morocco, language policy, planning, and linguistic human rights. She teaches Arabic language and culture courses across all proficiency levels.

Education:

• PhD from Mohammed V University (Rabat)
• MA with distinction from Ibn Tofail University (Kenitra)
• B.A. with distinction from Mohammed V University (Rabat)

Research Interests: Dr. Blila specializes in Arabic language pedagogy, heritage language learners, and sociopolitical dimensions of language use in Morocco. Her work bridges theoretical frameworks in sociolinguistics with practical applications in education and policy.

Awards:

• Recipient of the Fulbright Joint Supervision Scholarship (2011-2012) for dissertation research at the University of Arizona.

Professional Experience: Prior to Toronto Metropolitan University, she taught at Mohammed V University and Université Internationale de Rabat. She has published on linguistic human rights, language attitudes toward English, and heritage language preservation strategies.

Lab/Team Affiliations: Associated with the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) program at Toronto Metropolitan University, contributing to interdisciplinary cultural and linguistic initiatives.