The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) received a student delegation from Duke University—one of the most prestigious universities in the United States—on Tuesday, 3 June 2025, as part of its efforts to promote cultural dialogue and academic exchange with leading international academic institutions.

Dr. Abdelilah Benarafa, ICESCO Deputy Director-General, welcomed the delegation and delivered an address highlighting the Organization’s mission, strategic objectives, and role in supporting its Member States and strengthening international cooperation.

For his part, Mr. Mohammed Hedi Shili, Head of Legal Affairs and International Standards at ICESCO, emphasized Duke University’s global reputation and its excellence in education and scientific research.

Professor Mbaye Bashir Lo, faculty member at Duke University and Director of the “Duke in the Arab World” Academic Program, gave an overview of the university and its history, noting that it currently ranks sixth among top U.S. universities in terms of academic excellence and research output.

Moreover, Dr. Said El Hassan, Director of Studies and Research at the Khalid El Hassan Foundation in the Kingdom of Morocco, emphasized that the visit was organized as part of a tailored academic program for the visiting students. He highlighted the academic cooperation between the Foundation and Duke University, and expressed his appreciation to ICESCO for its warm welcome.

ICESCO experts also delivered presentations on the Organization’s key programs and initiatives in education, science, and culture, as well as its ongoing efforts to empower youth and promote civilizational dialogue.

The visit concluded with a tour of ICESCO’s Mishkat Hall, where Dr. Adel Bouraoui, Advisor to the ICESCO Director-General, presented an overview of the Mishkat training programs, which focus on enhancing Arabic language proficiency among non-Arabic speakers.