Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), received a delegation of Moroccan artists on Tuesday, 8 September 2026, at the Organization’s headquarters in Rabat, to discuss ways and mechanisms for leveraging art and creative industries to advance education and learning, promote the development of science, and raise awareness of the culture of the Islamic world. The meeting came as part of their participation in the Youth Knowledge Forum.

The delegation included Mr. Rachid El Ouali, actor, director and producer; Mr. Youssef Britel, film director and screenwriter; Ms. Sandya Tajdin, actress; and Ms. Faten El Youssoufi, screenwriter and playwright.

During the meeting, Dr. AlMalik highlighted ICESCO’s efforts, within the framework of its vision and strategic plan, to engage youth and women by attracting young talents and strengthening women’s capacities across the Organization’s various sectors, departments and centers. He underscored the role of art, in its various forms, in raising awareness of the issues and challenges facing societies around the world.

For their part, the guests expressed their willingness to cooperate with ICESCO in organizing international conferences and seminars aimed at building bridges of communication and fostering the exchange of expertise among artists, media professionals and industry workers.

At the close of the meeting, the delegation toured the ICESCO Studio, which is equipped with state-of-the-art cameras and technologies for recording and media broadcasting, with the aim of enhancing the production of digital content that supports the Organization’s global mission. The delegation also visited the Sultan Qaboos Library and explored its modern facilities and collection of knowledge and cultural publications and references, as well as a number of rare books and documents.
The meeting was also attended by Osama Heikal, Head of ICESCO Media and Communication Sector.