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    Category: Director General

    Director General

    Regional Workshop on Islamic World AI Charter Kicks Off in Muscat

    Posted on by MOHAMED.AQEIL

    The Omani capital, Muscat, is hosting the Islamic World AI Charter Regional Workshop (IWAIC) Asia and Middle East Regions, organized by the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) in partnership with the University of Technology and Applied Sciences (UTAS) and the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology of Oman, and in collaboration with the Omani National Commission for Education, Culture and Science. The workshop kicked off on Tuesday, July 2nd, 2024, under the patronage and in the presence of Dr. Khamis bin Saif Al Jabri, Chairman of Oman Vision 2040 Implementation Follow-up Unit, bringing together high-level participation from officials, experts, and researchers from 23 countries.

    This Workshop is part of the activities of ICESCO Chair for AI Ethics at UTAS in Oman and the Organization’s preparation and draft of the Islamic World AI Charter.

    The Workshop opened with the recitation of verses from the Holy Quran, followed by welcoming remarks by Dr. Saeed bin Hamad Al-Rubaie, President of the University of Technology and Applied Sciences. Dr. Al-Rubaie highlighted that UTAS and ICESCO are focused on AI ethics and use, which is reflected in their joint plans and initiatives, mainly ICESCO Chair for AI Ethics, which was established this year at UTAS to address ethical issues arising from the advent of AI applications.

    Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, ICESCO Director-General (DG), began his speech with poetic verses in tribute to Oman and its people. Dr. AlMalik stated that scholars of the Islamic world have historically been at the forefront of advancing humanity.

    Dr. Al-Malik stated that the global AI market is growing at an annual rate of 33% and is expected to drive global economic growth by 14% by 2030. He added that AI market is projected to expand by at least 120% year-on-year and that 77% of the devices we currently use incorporate AI.

    The DG stressed that the Organization accords special attention to AI evident in its comprehensive foresight strategy for the field, particularly strategic governance and ethical dimensions. This focus, he explained, has led the Member States to task ICESCO’s General Directorate with drafting the Islamic World AI Charter.

    Dr. AlMalik concluded his address by thanking the Sultanate of Oman, Dr. Al-Jabri, the University of Technology and Applied Sciences, the Ministry of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology, and the Omani National Commission for their significant efforts in organizing the Workshop, which will help open new horizons for the use of artificial intelligence.

    Speaking next, Dr. Kais Hammami, Head of ICESCO’s Center for Foresight and Artificial Intelligence, reviewed the strategic and methodological framework for the IWAIC, emphasizing that the Charter is a milestone towards a prosperous and sustainable technological future for the Islamic world, aligning with its values and consolidating its position on the global stage.

    Mr. Mohamed Hedi Shili, Head of ICESCO Department of Legal Affairs and International Standards, presented an overview of the indicators used to measure countries’ readiness for artificial intelligence implementation, including “governance and ethics,” explaining that the differences in readiness among countries drive the Organization to work more on sharing experiences among its Member States to benefit from leading experiences.

    Dr. Said Bin Salim Jaboob, Deputy Vice Chancellor of the University of Technology and Applied Sciences for Postgraduate Studies, Research, and Innovation, discussed the prospects of development in artificial intelligence, its competition with humans and the need to keep pace with regulating research in this field, especially with regard to artificial intelligence ethics.

    At the end of the opening session, the workshop participants, including researchers and experts, were honored, and commemorative shields were exchanged between the heads of the organizing bodies and the patron of the event, followed by a group photo.

    The agenda of the two-day workshop features several interactive sessions, discussions, and presentations. Additionally, it includes the creation of working groups to exchange views and perspectives on artificial intelligence in Asia and the Middle East, as well as to discuss the ethical aspects related to its applications in the Islamic world.

    ICESCO Explores Cooperation with Kyrgyzstan in Culture and Youth Capacity Building

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    Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General (DG) of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), held a meeting with Mr. Altynbek Maksutov, Minister of Culture, Information, Sports, and Youth Policy of Kyrgyzstan, to discuss ways to enhance cooperation between ICESCO and Kyrgyzstan in culture and youth capacity building to keep pace with the global changes.

    The Meeting took place on Friday, June 28, 2024 in Zaamin, Uzbekistan, on the sidelines of the 2nd Maqom Art International Forum, organized by the Uzbek Ministry of Culture over the period spanning from 27 to 30 June 2024. Dr. AlMalik reviewed ICESCO’s key strategic directions and its commitment to openness and cooperation with all for the benefit of its Member States and Muslim communities worldwide, with a focus on youth and women’s capacity building, and strategic foresight to face emerging challenges.

    Mr. Maksutov commended ICESCO’s contribution to developing the fields of education, science, and culture, affirming his country’s keen interest in strengthening cooperation with the Organization.

    The Meeting also discussed proposals to deepen the relations between ICESCO and Kyrgyzstan, including the establishment of a committee to implement and follow-up of agreed cooperation programs and projects, particularly in the areas of human resource training in Kyrgyzstan for heritage protection and inscription, and hosting a delegation of Kyrgyz youth for training at ICESCO’s headquarters in Rabat.

    The Meeting was attended by the Ambassador of Kyrgyzstan to Uzbekistan and Mr. Anar Karimov, Head of Partnerships and International Cooperation at ICESCO.

    ICESCO Director-General meets with President of the Turkic Culture and Heritage Foundation

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    Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), met with Mrs. Aktoty Raimkulova, President of the Turkic Culture and Heritage Foundation, to discuss prospects for cooperation between ICESCO and the Foundation in cultural fields, particularly in heritage preservation and valorization.

    The Meeting took place today, Friday, June 28, 2024, in Zomin City, Uzbekistan, on the sidelines of the 2nd Maqom Art International Forum, organized by the Uzbek Ministry of Culture over the period spanning from 27 to 30 June. Dr. AlMalik emphasized that heritage preservation and valorization are at the core of ICESCO’s new vision and strategic directions, given their pivotal importance in achieving sustainable development.

    The importance of building strong cooperation between ICESCO and the Turkic Culture and Heritage Foundation was underscored, stemming from the Memorandum of Understanding signed between ICESCO and the Organization of Turkic States on 13 June 2024. This includes implementing programs to train a group of young men and women from Member States of the Organization of Turkic States in cultural and heritage fields, as well as agreeing to hold conferences and seminars in these countries.

    In Presence of Uzbekistani President… ICESCO’s Director-General Participates in Opening of International Maqom Art Forum in Zaamin

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    Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General (DG) of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), took part in the opening ceremony of the 2nd International Maqom Art Forum in the esteemed presence of His Excellency Shavkat Mirziyoyev, President of the Republic of Uzbekistan. The forum, organized by the Uzbek Ministry of Culture in Zaamin between June 27-30, 2024, features a high-level attendance of 400 participants from around 80 countries.

    In his address during the opening ceremony, held on Thursday, June 27, 2024, His Excellency Shavkat Mirziyoyev welcomed the Forum’s guests, underscoring Uzbekis tan’s pride in its cultural heritage, its efforts to preserve and enhance it and its openness to collaboration with international organizations to achieve this goal.

    In his remarks, Dr. AlMalik expressed his delight in participating in the forum, highlighting the values that shape the identity, history, and geography of Uzbekistan. These values embody pride, generosity, peace, justice, unity, and national cohesion, reflecting the ambitions and sacrifices of a population that has mastered the art of achieving its dreams and establishing its distinguished stature among rising nations.

    Moreover, Dr. AlMalik praised President Mirziyoyev’s leadership, which champions the fields of thought, science, and wisdom, and commended His Excellency’s focus on cultural advancement and the enhancement of Islamic civilization, as well as the organization of the Maqom Art Forum. Dr. AlMalik emphasized the honor bestowed upon ICESCO when President Mirziyoyev acknowledged that the Organization is “on the right path, drawing closer to kinship ties and the unifying civilization of our Islamic world.”

    Dr. AlMalik also highlighted Uzbekistan’s contribution to the Islamic and human civilization, mentioning notable figures such as Imam Al-Bukhari, renowned for his significant contributions to Hadith sciences; Al-Khwarizmi, the discoverer of algorithms; Ibn Sina, the founder of modern medical science; Al-Biruni, who established the first school of astronomy; and Al-Farabi, whose book, the Virtuous City, is celebrated.

    Dr. AlMalik concluded his speech by reaffirming ICESCO’s commitment to deepening its cooperation with all Uzbek institutions in education, culture, and science to preserve heritage and mobilize universities and research centers for a better future.

    Following, the musical performances commenced, showcasing traditional dances and songs that introduced attendees to Uzbekistan’s unique cultural heritage.

    ICESCO’s International Forum “By Youth For Youth” Concludes Proceedings in Baku

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    The International Forum “By Youth For Youth,” organized by the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth and Sports of Azerbaijan and Heydar Aliyev Foundation, concluded its proceedings on Wednesday, 26 June 2024. The Forum witnessed high-level attendance of ministers, officials, representatives of Azerbaijani institutions and bodies, and public figures and saw the participation of 90 young people representing 43 countries inside the Islamic world and beyond.

    During the closing ceremony, Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, ICESCO Director-General (DG), praised the success of the first edition of the Forum, offered guidance to the youth on leadership, and called on them to participate in building a sustainable and bright future for the world.

    Speaking next, Ms. Indira Hajiyeva, Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports of the Republic of Azerbaijan, commended the close cooperation between Azerbaijan and ICESCO, which culminated in organizing the Forum over four days in Shusha and Baku.

    For her part, Ms. Sanaa Rida, representative of the Ministry of Youth, Culture, and Communication of the Kingdom of Morocco, reviewed the joint activities held by the youth sector at the Ministry in cooperation with ICESCO. Moreover, Mr. Théodore Adrien Ndiaye, representative of the Ministry of Youth and Sports of Senegal, praised the Forum’s sessions and topics.

    In his remarks, Mamoudou Sall, Assistant DG of the Islamic Centre for Development of Trade (ICDT), lauded the collaboration with ICESCO, particularly in entrepreneurship through the organization of “Innovation Lab for Young Change-Makers,” and affirmed ICDT’s commitment to enhancing cooperation with ICESCO.

    Following, three winners were announced among the participants who had proposed innovative projects to promote entrepreneurship, peace-building and climate change mitigation.

    In conclusion, Ms. Zarifa Maharramova, ICESCO Ambassador for Peace and Head of the International Relations Department at the Ministry of Youth and Sports of Azerbaijan, read the Forum’s final declaration entitled, “Shusha-Baku Youth Action Plan for a Sustainable Future in the Islamic World,” which included a set of recommendations for developing sustainable public policies in peace, well-being, climate change, and entrepreneurship.

    ICESCO Director-General Holds Meetings with Ministers of Youth and Sports

    Posted on by MOHAMED.AQEIL

    Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General (DG) of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), held a series of meetings with several ministers of youth and sports who attended the launch of the international forum “By Youth for Youth,” organized by ICESCO in cooperation with the Ministry of Youth and Sports of Azerbaijan and the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, in Shusha and Baku.

    The meetings, which took place on Wednesday, 26 June, 2024, in Baku, included discussions with Mr. Peter Ogwang, State Minister for Education and Sports of the Republic of Uganda; Mr. Abakar Djermah Aumi, Minister of Youth and Sports of the Republic of Chad; Mr. Bakary Y. Badjie, Minister of Youth and Sports of the Republic of The Gambia; and Dr. Donuma Umar Ahmed, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

    The discussions focused on developing cooperation between ICESCO and the countries represented by each Minister in leveraging sports to build youth capacities and prepare them for future professions.

    Dr. AlMalik emphasized the importance of sports in promoting culture, building peace, and fostering values of coexistence and intercultural dialogue. He further stressed that ICESCO encourages its Member States to invest in sports activities, considering them a catalyst for social inclusion and for building healthy, resilient, and inclusive communities.

    The Ministers expressed their pleasure in attending ICESCO’s forum “By Youth for Youth”, as well as their commitment to supporting the Organization’s activities and initiatives in building youth sports capabilities. They praised ICESCO’s efforts in sports and leadership training for peace and security, and called for the possibility of organizing similar activities in their countries in the future.

    ICESCO International Forum “By Youth For Youth” Kicks off in Shusha

    Posted on by MOHAMED.AQEIL

    The International Forum “By Youth For Youth,” organized by the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth and Sports of Azerbaijan and Heydar Aliyev Foundation, kicked off in Shusha on Tuesday, 25 June 2024.

    The four-day Forum is part of celebrating Shusha as Culture Capital in the Islamic World and ICESCO’s Year of Youth activities. It aims to provide a platform for young people to express their views, share best practices in peacebuilding, humanitarian work, and sustainable development, and devise concrete ideas to empower youth to lead positive change in their communities.

    The Forum witnessed the attendance of high-level officials and representatives from Azerbaijani institutions and bodies, as well as public figures. It includes the participation of 90 young people representing 43 countries from the Islamic world and beyond. The agenda features various panel sessions, intellectual dialogues and cultural and artistic activities.

    In his opening speech, Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General (DG) of ICESCO, expressed gratitude to His Excellency President Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, for his diligent efforts to promote civilizational dialogue on peace and sustainable development, as well as to the First Vice President and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva and all Azerbaijani entities for their significant efforts in ensuring the success of this event and their steadfast support in bringing this initiative into being for the Islamic world.

    Following, Dr. AlMalik welcomed the young participants in the Forum, particularly ICESCO Peace Ambassadors, noting that the youth population in Islamic countries is projected to reach 29% by 2030. This demographic trend has prompted ICESCO to strongly focus on youth participation as future leaders. Dr. AlMalik pointed out that youth represent 42% of ICESCO’s staff and highlighted the Organization’s key initiatives and programs in collaboration with international partners.

    Moreover, Dr. AlMalik emphasized that the Forum serves as a space for youth to build a brighter future by harnessing their potential to address global challenges and transform them into opportunities for peace and development. Dr. AlMalik also underscored the importance of deepening partnerships with the Republic of Azerbaijan.

    For his part, Aydin Karimov, the Special Representative of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan in Shusha District, welcomed the Forum’s participants, expressing his sincere thanks to the organizing partners for their efforts in making the event successful and commending the participation of ICESCO’s young ambassadors from various countries.

    Furthermore, Mr. Farid Gayibov, Minister of Youth and Sports of Azerbaijan, highlighted the Forum’s importance as it will feature significant intellectual discussions to develop youth skills and contribute to peacebuilding and sustainable development globally. Mr. Gayibov pointed out that the majority of the Azerbaijani population are youth, necessitating the launch of various initiatives and activities to empower them and discuss innovative solutions to challenges.

    Mr. Elvin Aslanov, Head of the Humanitarian Affairs Department at Heydar Aliyev Foundation, welcomed the strategic partnership between ICESCO and the Foundation, noting the importance of organizing this Forum in Shusha as the city reflects the rich and unique history and heritage of the Republic of Azerbaijan.

    The Forum’s working sessions followed, featuring discussions and dialogues among youth and inspiring leaders from different countries to exchange experiences and ideas.

    ICESCO Director-General Meets Azerbaijani Minister of Youth and Sports in Shusha

    Posted on by MOHAMED.AQEIL

    Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General (DG) of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), met with Mr. Farid Gayibov, Minister of Youth and Sports of the Republic of Azerbaijan. They discussed ways to enhance cooperation between ICESCO and Azerbaijan in leveraging sports to build youth capacities and develop their skills to keep pace with global changes.

    The Meeting took place on Tuesday (June 25, 2024), in Shusha, Azerbaijan, on the sidelines of the launch of the international forum “By Youth for Youth,” the fruit of a partnership between ICESCO, the Azerbaijani Ministry of Youth and Sports, and the Heydar Aliyev Foundation. Dr. AlMalik thanked Mr. Gayibov, the Ministry of Youth and Sports, and the other Azerbaijani parties for their significant cooperation and efforts made to ensure the Forum’s success.

    Dr. AlMalik emphasized that ICESCO’s new vision places youth issues at the heart of its priorities due to their crucial role in achieving sustainable development and advancing their communities. ICESCO commits, in its programs and projects, to utilizing the potential of sports to support community cohesion and improve the lives of individuals in its Member States.
    Mr. Gayibov expressed his gratitude to ICESCO’s DG and his accompanying delegation for their ongoing efforts to develop the partnership with Azerbaijan. He praised ICESCO’s vision, as it pertains to youth and its notable achievements in its areas of expertise.

    The Meeting also discussed proposals for implementing several joint programs and projects between ICESCO and the Azerbaijani Ministry of Youth and Sports, particularly in the context of celebrating Shusha as the 2024 Culture Capital of the Islamic world. Key proposals included organizing a version of ICESCO’s Social Solidarity Marathon in Azerbaijan and launching several cultural and sports initiatives serving the youth of the Islamic world, and beyond.

    At the close of the Meeting, the ICESCO DG and the Azerbaijani Minister of Youth and Sports exchanged commemorative shields.

    The Meeting was attended by Ambassador Nazim Samadov, Azerbaijan’s Ambassador to Morocco, Mr. Anar Karimov, Head of the Partnerships and International Cooperation Sector at ICESCO, and several youth members of the Organization.

    At ICESCO Headquarters: Launch of UNESCO’s Book on the Legacy of Arabic Language along Silk Roads

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    The headquarters of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) in Rabat hosted the launch event for UNESCO’s book, “Underlining the Role and Legacy of the Arabic language in Cultural, Scientific, and Commercial Exchanges along the Silk Roads,” on Monday, 24 June 2024. This publication is the fruit of a collaborative effort between UNESCO, the Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Programme for the Arabic Language and the Silk Road Program.

    The event, organized by UNESCO and the Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud Foundation, featured a distinguished audience and began with a recitation of verses from the Holy Quran, followed by a recorded speech from Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, ICESCO Director-General (DG), who commended the centrality of the Arabic language as highlighted in the book, emphasizing its role in enriching the Silk Road. He noted that Arabic, originating from the Arabian Peninsula, the cradle of the Islamic message, reached as far as China and Central Asia, extending to Türkiye and the borders of Europe. He also pointed out that translation to and from Arabic became one of the most lucrative trades.

    Ms. Gabriela Ramos, Assistant DG for the Social and Human Sciences of UNESCO, expressed her gratitude to the organizers for their efforts in promoting cultural diversity and highlighting the importance of the Arabic language in bridging civilizations.

    Dr. Saleh Ibrahim AlKhulaifi, DG of the Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Foundation, expressed his joy at the collaborative efforts that led to the publication of the book and emphasized its role in fostering intercultural dialogue through the Arabic language.

    Mr. Eric Falt, Director of the UNESCO Regional Office in Rabat, praised the book launch, stressing its vital role in preserving the legacy of the Arabic language. Moreover, he noted how it has cultivated a distinctive community along the Silk Roads, transcending barriers between diverse peoples.

    Dr. Li Ruohong, President of the Beijing International Peace Culture Foundation, underscored the global significance of the Arabic language in enhancing heritage and urged the youth to actively preserve the cultural and social legacy of the Silk Roads.

    Dr. Hani Al Balawi and Dr. Sidra Tariq Jamil, experts at ICESCO’s Center of Civilizational Dialogue, acknowledged the contributions of the partners and organizers, underscoring the crucial role of the Arabic language in taking up the torch of culture along the Silk Roads. Additionally, they highlighted ICESCO’s diligent efforts in preserving and promoting this legacy.

    The launch included two panel discussions on the legacy of the Arabic language along the Silk Roads. Dr. Omar Halli, advisor to ICESCO DG for the Federation of the Universities of the Islamic World, chaired the first session, while the second was moderated by Dr. Mehrdad Shabahang, Head of the UNESCO Silk Road Programme.

    Dr. Abdulaziz Almagushi, Deputy Director-General of the Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Foundation, tackled the importance of Arabic culture, which traversed continents, imparting values, principles, and concepts that positively influenced various societies.

    In his concluding remarks, Dr. Abdelilah Benarafa, ICESCO Deputy Director-General, emphasized the profound importance of the Silk Road and the scholarly wealth encapsulated in the UNESCO book. He added that addressing the Arabic language in this launch reflects a strategic vision for languages, particularly Arabic, as a primary conduit for transmitting humanity’s scientific, cultural, and civilizational heritage. He also stressed the necessity of prioritizing its preservation and development.

    Launch of “ICESCO Young Anchor Competition” for non-Arabic-speaking children

    Posted on by MOHAMED.AQEIL

    The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) is pleased to announce the launch of the “ICESCO Young Anchor Competition”, as part of the attention the Organization gives to the new generations and the youth of the future. The competition is aimed at non-Arabic-speaking children to encourage them to practice, master and use the Arabic language on an international scale. It also aims to boost their self-confidence, develop their communication skills and improve their linguistic and expressive competencies.

    The competition, organized by ICESCO’s Arabic Language Centre for non-Arabic Speakers, aims to promote intercultural understanding and the exchange of expertise between different cultures. It also aims to encourage children to express their ideas and opinions in innovative and diverse ways, helping to shape a generation capable of positively impacting their communities and building a better world through the power and appeal of words.

    Candidates wishing to take part in the Competition are invited to register from today, Monday 24 June 2024, until the end of October 2024. Entrants can compete in the following categories: National news or sports presentation, weather report presentation and news bulletin presentation.
    Applications are subject to the following conditions:

    • The participant must hold a non-Arab passport;
    • Participation must be in classical Arabic;
    • The participant must not be over 12 years of age;
    • The application must be submitted through the administration of the school with which the child is affiliated;
    • A video not exceeding 3 minutes must be sent to the competition e-mail address;
    • The application form must be completed and can be downloaded via the following link: https://icesco.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Application-Form-ICESCO-Young-Anchor-Competition.pdf
    • A copy of the candidate’s passport and their guardian’s passport;
    • All participations must be sent to the following e-mail address: daaiac@icesco.org.

    After the closing date for nominations, a specialized jury will evaluate the nomination files and select the three winners. The first prize winner will receive US$ 4,000, the second prize winner US$ 2,000 dollars and the third prize winner US$ 1,000, in addition to receiving certificates of merit. The winners will be announced on ICESCO’s official website and through official notifications sent to the parties concerned. The awards will be presented at a ceremony to be announced at a later date.