Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General (DG) of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), met on Tuesday, 6 January 2025, with participants in the 2nd Young Professionals Program for 2025. The program offers promising young men and women from within and outside the Islamic world the opportunity to spend 24 months in professional training across ICESCO’s specialized sectors, divisions, and centers.

In his address during the meeting held at ICESCO headquarters in Rabat, Dr. AlMalik congratulated the 13 selected participants from 11 countries, chosen from nearly 7,000 applicants. He expressed his conviction that bringing in new talent supports the Organization’s efforts to foster innovation and creativity in its programs and initiatives for Member States.

Moreover, Dr. AlMalik highlighted ICESCO’s flagship initiatives, programs, and projects aimed at preparing youth for future careers and encouraging innovation in fields such as modern science and technology, environment, culture, and education.

Dr. AlMalik also shared several pieces of advice to ensure a successful professional journey, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and knowledge-seeking, diligence and fact-checking, viewing mistakes as learning opportunities, and benefiting from the cultural and intellectual diversity offered by both the program and the Organization. He encouraged participants to leverage modern technologies for learning and skill development and to present their ideas and innovations.

During the meeting, participants introduced themselves, shared their educational backgrounds, professional interests, and aspirations. The session also featured an open discussion between the DG and the young professionals, during which Dr. AlMalik answered their questions and inquiries.