A novel new year resolution...

It has become a norm over the years to pen down resolutions as December draws to an end. From shedding kilos and walking your puppy everyday to changing one's job and speaking to old friends... we get to hear all sorts of sincere and rediculous resolutions.

But this year, thanks to subsidsed offers from some institutes, young and old alike in the UAE are determined to brush up their language skills.

From Arabic and French to Spanish and Italian, just choose the language and help is at hand.

Eton Institute, a training and development institute based in Dubai Knowledge Village, has already seen a 17-per cent surge in enquiries last month from individuals wishing to upgrade their language skills in 2011.

Dr Eli Abi Rached, Director of Eton Institute, said: "The turn of the year is the perfect time to take a moment to reflect on the things you’ve always wanted to do and achieve. Resolutions are a great way of ensuring that each year counts for more than the last in terms of personal growth. Learning a new language in particular, is one of the most popular resolutions in the Emirates, due to the vibrant and multicultural nature of our society. Almost everyone has friends or colleagues who speak different languages and with whom they would love to converse in their native language.”

Speaking about her resolutions for 2011, Nida Sheriff, a student based in Dubai, said: "I’ve always wanted to learn Spanish, and now with Eton Institute offering subsidised courses and offers in the New Year, I can finally fulfil my resolution."

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