Review of developments of partnership between ICESCO and Morocco in the fields of education, science and culture
Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), met with Mr. Mohamed Saad Berrada, Moroccan Minister of National Education, Pre-school and Sports, President of the Moroccan National Commission for Education, Science and Culture, to discuss ways of strengthening cooperation between the two parties in the Organization’s areas of expertise.
During the meeting, held on Thursday, March 20, 2025, at the Ministry’s headquarters in Rabat, the two parties reaffirmed their commitment to intensifying their outstanding cooperation through the implementation of innovative programs and activities in the fields of education, science and culture. This commitment is part of ICESCO’s leading role in promoting the development of these sectors in its Member States.
Dr. AlMalik commended the significant and constant support provided to ICESCO by His Majesty King Mohammed VI, may Allah assist him, and the Government of Morocco. This support has been reflected in His Majesty’s high patronage of numerous ICESCO activities and initiatives over the past years, as well as the commitment of the relevant Moroccan authorities to strengthen the strategic partnership with the Organization.
Mr. Berrada, for his part, commended ICESCO’s efforts and standing commitment to supporting Member States in the implementation of joint programs and initiatives that meet the specific needs and priorities of each country. Discussions also focused on the latest developments in the ongoing key joint programs and projects, as well as a number of proposed activities.
Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), and Ambassador Ahmed Nihad Abdel-Latif, Ambassador of the Arab Republic of Egypt to the Kingdom of Morocco, discussed a set of proposed activities and programs to enhance cooperation between ICESCO and Egypt in several areas. These include the organization of the Conference of Ministers of Higher Education and Scientific Research in the Islamic World, to be held in Cairo at the end of this year, ICESCO’s participation in the opening ceremony of the Grand Egyptian Museum, joint efforts in cultural heritage preservation, and the role of culture in building peace.
At the outset of the meeting, which took place on Wednesday, 19 March 2025, Dr. AlMalik praised the distinguished partnership between ICESCO and Egypt. He reviewed the most prominent activities and programs implemented in recent years between the two sides, notably the hosting of ICESCO’s 2021 General Conference under the patronage and in the presence of His Excellency President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, the launch of ICESCO Youth Year under His Excellency’s patronage, and the celebration of Cairo as the 2022 Culture Capital of the Islamic World.
Dr. AlMalik emphasized his aspiration to advance the strategic partnership between the two parties through the implementation of pioneering programs and projects. He highlighted that, in alignment with its vision and operational strategy, ICESCO has adopted a proactive approach to engaging with its Member States. This engagement aims to implement collaborative initiatives that address their aspirations and needs, particularly in areas such as youth capacity building, preparing them for future professions, promoting the values of peace, and encouraging investment in technology, innovation, artificial intelligence, and space sciences.
Additionally, Dr. AlMalik reaffirmed ICESCO’s unwavering support for Dr. Khaled El-Enany, former Egyptian Minister of Tourism and Antiquities and the Arab-African candidate for the position of Director-General of UNESCO. He also commended the expertise and contributions of Egyptian professionals who have recently joined the Organization, recognizing their valuable role in advancing its mission.
For his part, Ambassador Ahmed Nihad Abdel-Latif expressed his aspiration to enhance cooperation between the two sides, particularly in view of ICESCO’s outstanding initiatives and programs in the fields of creativity and innovation.
The meeting was attended by Dr. Abdelilah Benarafa, ICESCO’s Deputy Director-General; Mr. Osama Heikal, Head of the Media and Communication Sector; and Ms. Sally Mabrouk, Head of the Office of the Director-General overseeing the Strategy and Institutional Excellence Sector. Also in attendance were Marwa Mamdouh-Salem, Deputy Ambassador of Egypt to Morocco, and Dr. Heba Mahmoud Saad, Cultural Attaché.
Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), received Mr. Fuad Muradov, Chairperson of the State Committee on Work with Diaspora of the Republic of Azerbaijan, along with his accompanying delegation, at ICESCO headquarters in Rabat during their visit to Morocco. The meeting focused on exploring potential areas of cooperation in fields of mutual interest.
During the meeting, which took place on Wednesday, 12 March 2025, in the presence of Mr. Nazim Samadov, Ambassador of Azerbaijan to Morocco, Dr. AlMalik reiterated the strong ties between ICESCO and Azerbaijan, as demonstrated by a series of joint programs and successfully implemented projects.
Moreover, Dr. AlMalik expressed his appreciation for the generous and ongoing support extended by His Excellency Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, and the Azerbaijani authorities toward ICESCO’s initiatives, programs, and projects.
For his part, Mr. Fuad Muradov commended ICESCO for its pivotal and ongoing efforts in supporting its Member States across its areas of expertise. He outlined the objectives of the State Committee on Work with Diaspora of the Republic of Azerbaijan, emphasizing its commitment to strengthening the Azerbaijani community’s sense of belonging and national identity through various programs and activities. He also underscored the vital role of the Azerbaijani diaspora in promoting and disseminating Azerbaijani culture in their countries of residence.
The meeting discussed ICESCO’s engagement of its Member States in these committees to benefit the youth of the Islamic world through activities that raise awareness of the importance of preserving their national cultures.
Following the meeting, Mr. Muradov and his accompanying delegation visited the International Exhibition and Museum of the Prophet’s Biography and Islamic Civilization, currently housed at ICESCO headquarters.
Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), received Mr. Ahmed Ag Aboubacrine, Director of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group’s Regional Hub in Rabat, on Thursday, March 6, 2025, at ICESCO headquarters in Rabat. The two parties discussed prospects for bilateral cooperation in areas of mutual interest.
At the outset of the meeting, Dr. AlMalik welcomed Mr. Aboubacrine to ICESCO, highlighting the importance of bilateral communication in strengthening cooperation to fulfill common objectives. He also noted that IsDB-funded projects align with ICESCO’s areas of expertise, emphasizing the need for joint action and the sharing of expertise and resources. “Such collaboration would enhance the outcomes of programs and projects in education, science, and culture. ICESCO is willing to provide any logistical or technical support to the IsDB in this regard,” he added.
Moreover, the ICESCO Director-General reviewed the Organization’s latest projects and achievements across various fields. These include the inscription of 724 heritage sites and elements on ICESCO’s Islamic World Heritage Lists, among which 33 sites are classified as endangered, representing nearly 60% of the 53 endangered sites worldwide. He also highlighted programs aimed at enhancing educational infrastructure in Member States, developing educational tools in accordance with international standards, protecting education systems, and addressing school dropout rates in impoverished and marginalized areas.
Additionally, he pointed out initiatives targeting youth empowerment, such as the Young Professionals Program, which has received 10,000 applications this year, as well as capacity-building and entrepreneurship support programs, particularly in the fields of technology and artificial intelligence.
Dr. AlMalik further elaborated on ICESCO’s approach, which is based on openness and transparency with Member States and partners, involving them in evaluation and development processes. This includes assessing available opportunities to secure innovative funding sources for implementing programs that address the most pressing needs of Member States.
For his part, Mr. Aboubacrine expressed his gratitude to Dr. AlMalik for the warm welcome and commended ICESCO’s concrete efforts in its areas of competence, making it a leading development organization with exceptional technical and professional capabilities, as well as highly competent staff. He also emphasized that the IsDB is keen to strengthen its partnership with ICESCO and expand bilateral cooperation in areas where the Organization has made significant progress, particularly in program and project evaluation, vocational training, trainer qualification, and capacity-building, as well as funding and implementing joint initiatives in education, culture, heritage, environment, and technology. He also stressed the importance of developing plans to engage both public and private sectors in such programs and raising awareness of their significance.
In addition, Mr. Aboubacrine stated that the IsDB is drafting a cooperation agreement to be signed with ICESCO, aiming to devise a bilateral action plan to be implemented soon.
The meeting was attended by Dr. Ahmed Albanyan, Director of ICESCO’s Translation and Publishing Center, and Dr. Abdullah Al Mulhim, Expert at ICESCO’s Partnerships and International Cooperation Sector.
For the second consecutive year, the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) hosted the scientific forum “Ramadan Journey into the Depths of the Human Soul” at its headquarters on Tuesday, March 4, 2025. The event was organized in cooperation with the Group of Spouses of Arab Ambassadors and Heads of International Organizations in Morocco.
The forum featured Dr. Khadija Abouzid, Professor of Higher Education at the Faculty of Letters and Human Sciences, Mohammed V University of Rabat, who delivered a lecture titled “Stories and Lessons.” The event was attended by Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, ICESCO Director-General, along with several ambassadors accredited to Morocco and members of the Group of Spouses of Ambassadors.
In her opening remarks, Ms. Rania Shobaki, Chairwoman of the Group of Spouses of Arab Ambassadors and Heads of International Organizations in Morocco, praised the forum as an outstanding example of cooperation between ICESCO and the Group in cultural, social, intellectual, and spiritual fields. She commended ICESCO for hosting the event for the second consecutive year as part of its ongoing scientific and intellectual mission.
Dr. Yousra Bint Hussain Al-Jazairy, a member of the Group, highlighted the significance of Ramadan as a time for soul-searching, self-cultivation, and the reinforcement of values such as mercy, tolerance, and benevolence. She noted that the lecture provided an intellectual and spiritual journey aimed at fostering self-understanding and deepening appreciation for the noble values of the holy month. “The forum reflects our firm belief in the importance of knowledge and contemplation in promoting human values and concepts. It also embodies the spirit of fruitful cooperation between international institutions and their communities in the service of intellectual, psychological, and spiritual well-being,” she added, concluding her remarks by thanking ICESCO for its efforts in promoting intellectual, cultural, and scientific dialogue.
In her lecture, Dr. Abouzid focused on the story of Maryam (Mary), peace be upon her, and the profound lessons it offers on resilience through life’s challenges. She pointed out that the Quran references her story 30 times and dedicates an entire chapter to her, emphasizing the messages of peace, patience, mercy, and serenity during hardship. Dr. Abouzid also highlighted the miraculous events surrounding Maryam’s story, beginning with the pregnancy of Prophet Zakariya’s (Zachariah) wife, peace be upon him, despite her old age and culminating in the miraculous birth of Prophet Isa (Jesus), peace be upon him.
Following the lecture, Dr. Abouzid engaged with the audience in a question-and-answer session.
In his closing remarks, Dr. AlMalik described the lecture as an insightful journey through Surah Maryam, which Allah Almighty revealed to vindicate Maryam and immortalize her miracle. He praised the discussion for its depth and relevance, reinforcing the significance of such forums in enriching intellectual and spiritual dialogue.
The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) and the Saudi National Commission for Education, Culture, and Science have signed an agreement for Saudi Arabia to host ICESCO’s 46th Executive Council and 15th General Conference in January 2026.
The agreement was signed on the sidelines of the 45th session of ICESCO’s Executive Council, held in Tunis on Wednesday, 26 February 2025. Dr. Salim Al Habsi, Director of ICESCO’s General Secretariat for National Committees and Conferences, and Mr. Ahmed bin Abdulaziz Al-Bulahid, Secretary General of the Saudi National Commission for Education, Culture, and Science, formalized the arrangement, outlining the organizational and logistical framework for the upcoming events, including preparations and necessary services for participants.
Saudi Arabia’s hosting of these key ICESCO meetings underscores its commitment to supporting the organization’s mission of fostering cooperation among Member States in education, science, and culture. The Kingdom’s initiative also aligns with broader efforts to achieve sustainable development and enhance dialogue and understanding among nations.
The 45th session of the Executive Council of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) concluded on Wednesday in Tunis under the patronage of His Excellency President Kaïs Saïed, represented by the Ministry of Education. The Council approved various decisions and projects submitted by ICESCO’s General Directorate.
The session commenced with presentations by ICESCO’s specialized sectors, departments, and centers, highlighting key programs and projects implemented over the past year. Among these were the executive report on ICESCO’s 2024 activities and reports on initiatives such as the Hiveflow platform, the ICESCO Year of Youth, the Young Professionals Program, “Leap to Learning 500,” and “Esnad: Sudan as a Model.” A short film was also screened, showcasing nine international excellence awards recently received by ICESCO for management, governance, and innovation.
During working sessions, specialized sectors introduced new projects and initiatives for approval, detailing ICESCO’s latest advancements, including the establishment of the Media and Communication Sector. Mr. Osama Heikal, Head of the new sector, outlined its strategic plan for 2025-2030, emphasizing ICESCO’s vision of achieving international leadership in media and communication. The plan focuses on adapting to contemporary communication developments, countering media misinformation, addressing identity crises among youth, providing media training, expanding ICESCO’s media relations, and organizing specialized programs and forums.
Additionally, the Council approved the creation of new centers, including the Calligraphy and Manuscripts Center, the Training Center, and the Poetry and Literature Center. Dr. Rawda Al-Haj, an expert in the Culture Sector, highlighted the Poetry and Literature Center’s role in enriching the cultural landscape of the Islamic world and positioning ICESCO as a global hub for poetry and literature. Dr. Edham Hanash, also from the Culture Sector, explained that the Calligraphy and Manuscripts Center will focus on preserving and promoting traditional and modern calligraphy while supporting calligraphers and artisan artists.
Meanwhile, Dr. Mohamed Hedi Shili, Director of the Legal Affairs and International Standards Department, detailed how the Training Center will offer innovative programs to equip human resources with essential skills for emerging challenges.
The Council also approved the observer membership requests of the Federal Republic of Brazil and the International Institute for the Unification of Private Law (UNIDROIT). Amendments were made to several articles in the Personnel Regulations and the Internal Regulations of the Compensation Fund, along with the endorsement of the Riyadh AI Charter for the Islamic World.
Discussions also addressed the educational, scientific, and cultural conditions in Palestine, as well as draft resolutions and action plans submitted by ICESCO’s General Directorate. The Council approved Saudi Arabia’s request to host ICESCO’s 46th Executive Council and 15th General Conference, formalizing an agreement to facilitate logistical and organizational preparations. The agreement includes provisions for periodic meetings to monitor progress and ensure comprehensive services for participants, ensuring the success of the upcoming Council session in the Kingdom.
Concluding the session, ICESCO’s Director-General, Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, expressed gratitude to Council members and guests for their constructive contributions and for adopting all submitted documents. He emphasized that these recommendations would propel ICESCO forward in achieving its ambitious goals and strengthening its role in fostering cooperation and development across the Islamic world. A cable of thanks was sent to President Kaïs Saïed for hosting and supporting the Council’s sessions, endorsing key initiatives, and reaffirming Tunisia’s strong commitment to ICESCO’s mission in advancing education, science, and culture.
On the sidelines of the 45th session of its Executive Council, held in Tunis, and as part of its efforts to promote sustainable development, the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) signed two memorandums of understanding on Wednesday, 26 February 2025, with the Arab Society for Economic Research and the Tunisian National Center for Education Technologies, respectively.
The MoUs aim to promote innovative financing and digital transformation in education. The first MoU was signed by Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, ICESCO Director-General, and Dr. Ashraf El-Araby, Secretary General of the Arab Society for Economic Research. It aims to promote research on innovative financing mechanisms to support development projects, research and advisory cooperation, organize annual meetings, prepare sustainable action plans, and create platforms for knowledge exchange to support Member States in achieving knowledge-based economic development.
The second memorandum was signed by Mr. Anar Karimov, Head of ICESCO’s Partnerships and International Cooperation Sector, and Mr. Skander Ghenia, Director General of the Tunisian National Center for Education Technologies. It focuses on enhancing the use of artificial intelligence and modern technologies in education, and provides for conducting research studies on the impact of technology in education, organizing workshops and training programs, and launching pilot projects in Tunisian educational institutions to assess the impact of digital transformation on the quality of education.
The two memorandums are part of ICESCO’s efforts to devise innovative financing mechanisms, promote digital transformation in education, and cooperate with regional and international institutions to support innovation and invest in the future of the next generations.
On Wednesday, February 26, 2025, the Republic of Tunisia, represented by its Ministry of Education, hosted the 45th session of the Executive Council of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ICESCO). Held under the patronage of His Excellency President Kaïs Saïed, the Executive Council brought together representatives of ICESCO Member States, ministers, ambassadors, officials, and delegates from regional and international organizations.
Chaired by Dr. Salim Al Habsi, Head of ICESCO’s General Secretariat of National Commissions and Conferences, the 45th session opened with remarks from Tunisia’s Minister of Education, Noureddine Nouri, in which he reiterated his appreciation to ICESCO for holding its Executive Council in Tunisia, reflecting the Organization’s vital role in strengthening ties among its Member States. He also affirmed Tunisia’s full commitment to supporting ICESCO’s efforts in planning and implementing various educational, scientific, and cultural initiatives and proposals.
Following that, Dr. Mohamed Ayman Ashour, Egypt’s Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research and President of ICESCO’s 14th General Conference, delivered an address emphasizing the need for unity among the leaders and peoples of the Islamic world in light of the significant challenges facing the region. He stated, “Our unity is not only one of faith and culture but also of history and destiny.” Dr. Ashour stressed ICESCO’s full recognition of the importance of coordinating efforts in its fields of action to cultivate generations of young innovators and scientists who possess a deep understanding of the present and the key to success in shaping the future.
For his part, Dr. Dawas Tayseer Rashid Dawas, Chairman of the ICESCO Executive Council and Secretary-General of the Palestinian National Commission for Education, Culture, and Science, emphasized that the Executive Council serves as a platform where ideas translate into action and planning leads to implementation, all in pursuit of comprehensive development. He described it as a cornerstone for shaping ICESCO’s policies and setting its priorities, highlighting the need for teamwork, constructive collaboration, and innovative proposals that enhance the Organization’s efficiency and advance its noble mission.
Next, Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, ICESCO Director-General, gave an address expressing gratitude to the Republic of Tunisia—its leadership, people, and government—for the honorable hosting of the Executive Council proceedings. Dr. AlMalik outlined three key objectives of the session, stating: “We convene, first, to reaffirm our commitment to partnership, upholding its values through a united vision and coordinated actions. Second, to engage in a constructive review of our achievements, which requires keen insights and thoughtful critique. Third, to adopt a confident, forward-looking approach, exploring future opportunities and defining their scope.” Dr. AlMalik further emphasized that ICESCO has earnestly represented the visions of its Member States, evolving into a globally recognized organization with impactful contributions. He highlighted the Organization’s efforts in establishing institutional mechanisms for future foresight, preparing young generations, and developing innovative civilizational concepts that offer effective solutions.
The opening session also featured remarks from distinguished guests. Dr. Saud Hilal Al-Harbi, former Director-General of ALECSO and former Minister of the Ministries of Education and Higher Education in Kuwait, highlighted the determination and leadership demonstrated by Dr. AlMalik and ICESCO’s staff. He praised the Organization’s commitment to change, its infusion of new talent, and its many achievements.
In a recorded remark, Dr. Moustafa Osman Ismaïl, former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Sudan, commended the notable progress ICESCO has made. He highlighted the Organization’s openness, its recruitment of youth and women, and its work environment rooted in creativity and innovation—factors that have positioned it alongside leading international organizations.
Likewise, in his recorded remark, Dr. Khaled El-Enany, former Minister of Tourism and Antiquities of Egypt and candidate for the UNESCO Director-General position, also praised ICESCO’s efforts and achievements that have impacted its Member States in several fields, stressing that this session of the Executive Council is an opportunity to develop mechanisms for joint action.
The opening session featured a video highlighting the international certificates of excellence recently awarded to ICESCO in management, governance, and innovation. This was followed by the signing of cooperation agreements between ICESCO, the Arab Society for Economic Research (ASFER), and the National Center for Technologies in Education (CNTE) in Tunisia, aimed at strengthening collaboration in innovative financing, artificial intelligence, and its applications in education.
The Executive Council sessions then commenced with a review of the Organization’s performance reports over the past year and its future plans. The session also approved the applications of the Federative Republic of Brazil and the International Institute for the Unification of Private Law (UNIDROIT) to join ICESCO as Observer Members.
Under the theme “Innovative Finance… A Prosperous Economy,” the Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) held its 3rd Consultative Meeting on Tuesday, 25 February 2025, in Tunis. The meeting was organized in collaboration with Tunisia’s Ministry of Education and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) office in Tunisia, on the sidelines of the 45th session of ICESCO’s Executive Council.
The high-level meeting brought together ministers, experts, and representatives from ICESCO Member States and international organizations to discuss the most effective ways to mobilize sustainable and innovative financing. The discussions also focused on aligning ICESCO’s projects with the global landscape to enhance development within its Member States.
The opening session, moderated by Mr. Mohamed Hedi Shili, Head of ICESCO’s Department of Legal Affairs and International Standards, began with remarks by Mr. Noureddine Nouri, Tunisian Minister of Education. He welcomed the attendees and stressed the significance of Tunisia hosting ICESCO’s Consultative Meeting as part of the country’s belonging to the Islamic world and its commitment to supporting ICESCO’s pioneering efforts in education, science, and culture. He added that this session holds great importance due to the anticipated outcomes and decisions that will strengthen ICESCO’s work and impact in promoting comprehensive development.
For his part, Mr. Michel Le Pechoux, UNICEF’s representative in Tunisia, highlighted the importance of protecting children’s right to education and ensuring their empowerment through learning. He further emphasized the crucial role played by both UNICEF and ICESCO in advancing educational programs that target the most vulnerable groups and underscored the need to develop sustainable financing mechanisms to guarantee continued support for children’s education.
Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, ICESCO Director-General, expressed his sincere gratitude to His Excellency President Kaïs Saïed for his generous patronage of both the 3rd Consultative Meeting and the 45th session of ICESCO’s Executive Council. He praised Tunisia’s commitment to advancing the Organization’s work in its various fields.
Dr. AlMalik outlined three key objectives of the consultative meeting: • Strengthening ICESCO’s relationship with its Member States through consultation, cooperation, and friendship. • Engaging Member States in shaping ICESCO’s updated vision by incorporating their insights. • Exploring and developing new financing mechanisms to support ICESCO’s initiatives. He highlighted ICESCO’s efforts in securing alternative sources of funding beyond its core budget, enabling the Organization to implement numerous activities and programs.
Following the opening session, an in-depth discussion was held on inclusive education, featuring experts from ICESCO, Tunisia’s Ministry of Education, and UNICEF. Participants exchanged experiences on promoting equity and inclusion in education across ICESCO’s Member States and explored policies and strategies to ensure that all children are integrated into the education system. UNICEF also presented its plan, demonstrating how equity-driven policies can enhance education quality.
Additionally, Dr. Sally Mabrouk, Director of the ICESCO Director-General’s Office, chaired a session titled “Innovation in Financing: A Driver for Sustainable Economic Growth.” During this session, Mr. Anar Karimov, Head of Partnerships and International Cooperation at ICESCO, presented the key themes of the Consultative Meeting and outlined five strategies aimed at enhancing financing, identifying innovative approaches to diversify funding sources, and effectively implementing these initiatives.
Dr. Ashraf El Araby, Secretary-General of the Arab Society for Economic Research (ASFER), also gave a presentation titled “Enhancing Sustainable Finance: Exploring Innovative Mechanisms for Strategic Growth.” He emphasized the importance of strengthening innovative financing mechanisms to ensure sustainable development and contribute to achieving strategic objectives. He also discussed the challenges associated with financing, the need to increase public spending, and developing technological infrastructure through collaboration among governments, international organizations, and both the public and private sectors.
The meeting concluded with five working groups discussing the five financing strategies, namely: • Crowdfunding • Endowment Funds (Waqf) • Impact Investment Funds • Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) • Green Bonds
The groups explored and developed innovative ideas and initiatives, which were then presented to a jury panel in charge of selecting and refining the best proposals. These selected ideas will be incorporated into ICESCO’s innovation strategy to drive sustainable financing solutions.
