Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General (DG) of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), underlined that the Organization accords particular importance to protecting children and building their capacities to empower them to lead positive social change, noting that ICESCO, through its programmes and initiatives, adopts strategic policies for enhancing basic services, transforming education, combating violence, and investing in the future.

This statement came in his address on Tuesday, September 20, 2022, during the “Justice for Africa’s Children” Forum, organized by the Global Alliance of Nobel Laureates and World Leaders for Children, in New York on the sidelines of the United Nations’ Transforming Education Summit (TES). The event saw the participation of high-caliber personalities, including ministers, representatives of international organizations, and Nobel Laureates, and is aimed at casting light on the importance of justice for Africa’s children, ensuring equal access to education, and addressing challenges related to climate change and child labour, particularly in conflict and disaster zones.

At the outset of his address, ICESCO DG indicated that the repercussions of deprivation affect children, families, communities, and nations and that ensuring healthcare, education, human dignity and security for children contributes to achieving sustainable development.

He added that the African continent needs special attention, given the large demographic growth that it is witnessing, and the sharp increase in its child population, who is still vulnerable to poverty, school dropout, and violence. “If we join hands to bring justice to Africa’s children by scaling up investment in basic services, education, healthcare, and protection, we will empower them to enhance the socio-economic conditions in the continent,” noted ICESCO DG.

Dr. Al-Malik stressed that ICESCO is committed to supporting children, youth, and women, and is working to develop their creative skills by building their leadership capacities through its pioneering programmes, namely the Leadership Training in Peace and Security (LTIPS). It is worth noting that fifty male and female candidates representing 45 countries were selected to participate as peace ambassadors in the 2022 edition of the programme.