Dr. Salim AlMalik, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), met with Ms. Sharmeen Soneya Murshid, Social Welfare and Women and Children Affairs Adviser in the Interim Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh. The two parties discussed ways to enhance cooperation between ICESCO and Bangladesh in promoting gender equality, building women’s capacities, and protecting children’s rights.

During the meeting, held in Dhaka on Sunday, 5 October 2025, Dr. AlMalik announced the establishment of an ICESCO Chair for Women’s Empowerment and Gender Equality at Dhaka University. The aim of the chair is to conduct studies and research, develop initiatives to promote equal opportunities for both sexes in the Islamic world, and train women in leadership skills.
ICESCO Director General also reviewed the Organization’s key initiatives, programs and projects in the fields of mental health, enhancing the entrepreneurial skills of youth and women, and reintegrating girls who have dropped out of school into education.

For her part, Ms. Murshid emphasized the importance of cooperation between ICESCO and Bangladesh in promoting the rights of women and children, ensuring mental health and digital safety within society, developing pioneering programs to protect children and combat gender-based violence, and promoting women’s participation in achieving sustainable development.

Both parties agreed to strengthen their cooperation in areas such as building the capacity of women and young people, promoting social inclusion, and developing gender-sensitive educational systems.