The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) concluded the activities of its Ramadan Gathering, “Excellence in Vicegerency (Istikhlaf),” on Tuesday, 17 March 2026, held at its headquarters in Rabat throughout the holy month of Ramadan in cooperation with the Group of Spouses of Arab Ambassadors and Heads of International Organizations accredited to the Kingdom of Morocco. The session featured a lecture by Dr. Khadija Abouzid, Professor of Higher Education at the Faculty of Letters and Human Sciences, Mohammed V University in Rabat, titled “When the Balance of Values Is Disrupted.”

The closing session was attended by Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, ICESCO Director-General, a number of ambassadors accredited to Morocco, members of the Group of Spouses of Arab Ambassadors and Heads of International Organizations accredited to the Kingdom of Morocco, as well as intellectuals and specialists in spiritual and educational affairs.

The session opened with the recitation of verses from the Holy Qur’an by young reciter Zayd El Bakkali, winner of the “Child Hafiz” Award in Morocco, followed by a poem recited by young reciter “munshida” Abeer Al Mahboubi. Dr. AlMalik then presented both children with honorary awards in recognition of their excellence in Qur’an memorization and recitation.

Dr. Yousra Bint Hussain AlJazairy, Chair of the Cultural Committee of the Group, delivered an introductory address in which she emphasized that history demonstrates that the fall of civilizations stems from losing the compass of values that governs human behavior, noting that sound reason and moral integrity are the true measures of individual worth and the foundation of thriving societies, which calls for reflection on how to elevate human values so they move from theoretical knowledge to tangible behavior and impact.

She added that the lecture would focus on Qur’anic principles guiding human conduct, the Qur’anic perspective on Vicegerency values, ways to translate theoretical principles into practical behavior, and the role of role models in instilling Vicegerency values among youth.

Dr. Abouzid began her lecture by highlighting the foundations of responsible human existence from an Islamic perspective: faith in God, ethical conduct, and responsibility toward society. Through these pillars, she explained, individuals become capable of fulfilling their life mission and serving as catalysts for positive change in their societies.

She added that human behavior in Islam is guided by a holistic system of values that shapes a balanced character in one’s relationship with God, the self, and the community. Acts of worship that cultivate inner discipline help anchor these values until they become daily practice, especially when youth and society at large can look to exemplary figures who embody these principles.

The session included a rich discussion among participants. Dr. AlMalik commended Dr. Abouzid for her contributions throughout the gathering’s sessions, noting that her insights had enriched the theme of “Excellence in Vicegerency (Istikhlaf)” and opened new horizons that illuminated previously overlooked dimensions.

The event concluded with Dr. AlMalik and Ms. Rania Shobaki, Chairwoman of the Group, presenting honorary shields to Dr. Abouzid, Dr. Sally Mabrouk, Director of the Office of the ICESCO Director-General and Supervisor of the Strategy and Institutional Excellence Sector at ICESCO, Qur’an reciter Hassnae Khoulali, and Mr. Ala Mula Al-Dwailah from the Office of the Director-General, in addition to several ICESCO sectors, divisions, and departments for their contributions to the Gathering’s success.