The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) and its Federation of the Universities of the Islamic World (FUIW) launched the “ICESCO Network of Experts in Social and Human Sciences,” aimed at establishing connections among all relevant parties in the Islamic world and beyond, promote understanding of social transformations and enhance strategies, policies and programs to build human capital.

Held at ICESCO Headquarters in Rabat on Wednesday, 3 May 2023, the launch ceremony witnessed the participation of high-caliber officials, academics, social and human sciences experts and intellectuals.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, ICESCO Director-General (DG), stressed that the challenges currently facing the world highlight the urgent need for innovative solutions that can bridge gaps and create equitable and inclusive societies, noting that the Network of Experts in Social and Human Sciences reflects the Organization’s expertise in strengthening human capital and serving as a beacon of knowledge to its Member States.

Dr. AlMalik added that the Network is an ICESCO initiative to leverage accumulated experiences and share best practices for practical applications of social and human sciences while promoting cooperation among experts, scholars and researchers to equip decision-makers with the latest knowledge to achieve prosperity and progress.

In a video-recorded address, Dr. Patrick Mouguiama-Daouda, Gabonese Minister of Higher Education, Scientific Research, Technology Transfer and National Education, highlighted the significant role of social and human sciences, noting that they should not be limited to a narrow scope. He added that the Network should revitalize research in the field to ultimately develop a better understanding of social transformations and contribute to devising effective solutions to the world’s major challenges.

In a general introduction to the Network, Mrs. Ramata Almamy Mbaye, Head of ICESCO’s Social and Human Sciences Sector, noted that this initiative aims to foster an exchange of experiences to promote a shared understanding of social transformations.

The discussion sessions then began, focusing on the rapid developments that the world is witnessing and ways for the social and human sciences to keep pace with them. The sessions also delved into the field’s role in shaping public policies and its connection with artificial intelligence and strategic foresight.