Category: Director General

Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), received Dr. André Jacques Augand, Minister of Culture, Youth, Sports, and Arts of the Republic of Gabon to discuss the progress of the partnership between the Organization and Gabon in the fields of education, science, and culture.

The meeting took place on Tuesday, 28 May 2024 at ICESCO’s headquarters in Rabat, attended by Mr. Sylver Aboubakar Minko Mi-Nseme, Gabonese Ambassador to Morocco, and the minister’s accompanying delegation. Dr. AlMalik highlighted the Organization’s commitment to enhancing cooperation with Gabon through the implementation of programs, projects, and initiatives that align with Gabon’s priorities and meet its needs.

Dr. AlMalik explained that ICESCO’s new vision prioritizes cultural fields and that the Organization has developed a cultural strategy aimed at supporting the Member States in updating their cultural policies, preserving and valorizing heritage in the Islamic world, employing modern technologies, inscribing historical sites and cultural elements on heritage lists in the Islamic world, and building the capacities of heritage professionals.

For his part, Dr. Augand praised ICESCO’s roles and distinguished initiatives, expressing his aspiration to further develop the partnership between Gabon and the Organization in the coming period.

The meeting also covered the results of some ongoing projects between the two sides, as well as proposals for cooperation, including the possibility of ICESCO supporting the establishment of a museum in Gabon to exhibit archaeological items to be recovered from European countries.

In attendance from ICESCO were Dr. Mohamed Zinelabidine, Head of the Culture and Communication Sector, and Ms. Ramata Almamy Mbaye, Head of the Social and Human Sciences Sector.

Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), received a delegation from Arizona State University (ASU), headed by Amb. Maen Rashid Areikat, Advisor to the University President for the Middle East and North Africa, where they discussed ways to promote cooperation between the Organization and the University in areas of common interest.

The meeting was held on Tuesday, May 28, 2024, at ICESCO Headquarters in Rabat, in the presence of David Thomas, Executive Director of the Milo Space Science Institute at ASU, and Prof. Brian MacCraith, Senior Advisor to the President of the University. During the meeting, Dr. AlMalik commended the cooperation between the Organization and the Milo Institute, within the framework of the agreement signed between the two parties in November 2022.

He also reviewed the main areas of focus of ICESCO’s vision and strategic orientations, which both adopt openness and cooperation with all parties for the benefit of the Member States and Muslim communities around the world, highlighting the initiatives, programs and projects the Organization is currently implementing in its areas of competence.

Moreover, the Director General stressed the Organization’s keenness to cooperate with universities, stating that it intends to create 100 scientific chairs at prestigious universities around the world by 2025. He further explained that a number of these chairs have already been established, some of which specialize in artificial intelligence, space science and other areas of modern technology.

For his part, Amb. Areikat commended ICESCO’s role in contributing to the efforts of capitalizing on modern technology to develop the fields of education, science and culture, stressing the University’s keenness to cooperate with the Organization in many programs.

The two parties discussed proposals for cooperation, especially in the fields of innovation, artificial intelligence, youth capacity building and scholarships. They also agreed to form a joint working team to prepare executive plans for several programs and projects, soon to be the subject of a cooperation agreement between ICESCO and Arizona State University.

The meeting was attended by Dr. Raheel Qamar, Head of the Science and Environment Sector, and Dr. Muhammad Sharif, Sector Advisor.

Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), held a meeting with Dr. Elisabeth Sherif, Minister of National Education, Literacy, Vocational Training and the Promotion of National Languages, President of the Nigerien National Commission, to explore prospects to enhance cooperation between the two parties through the implementation of a set of programs and projects in the upcoming days.

During the meeting, held on Monday, 27 May 2024, at ICESCO Headquarters, in the presence of Mr. Salissou Ada, the Ambassador of the Republic of Niger to Morocco, and a host of heads of sectors at the Organization, Dr. AlMalik stressed ICESCO’s keenness to deepen cooperation with Niger and continue implementing the previously approved projects in education, science and culture.

For her part, Dr. Elisabeth Sherif lauded ICESCO’s roles and efforts in supporting its Member States in its areas of competence and expressed appreciation for the Organization’s programs to advance education and capacity building in Niger, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Furthermore, Dr. Elisabeth Sherif pointed out the challenges her country faces in the transitional phase the country is undergoing, especially in the fields of education, capacity building and training, and that Niger heavily relies on ICESCO’s support during the next phase.

At the end of the meeting, the two parties agreed to continue coordination between ICESCO and Nigerien competent bodies, mainly the Ministry of National Education, and develop new programs to enhance this partnership by establishing ICESCO’s Center for Teaching Arabic.

Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), received Dr. Mohammed Ammari Zayed, Libya’s Permanent Delegate to ICESCO at the Organization’s headquarters in Rabat to discuss the progress of the partnership between the Organization and Libya, following Dr. AlMalik’s visit to Tripoli earlier this May and his discussions with senior Libyan officials.

The meeting, held on Thursday, 23 May 2024, began with Dr. AlMalik expressing sincere his thanks and appreciation to the Libyan Government and people for the warm reception he received during his visit to Tripoli, and for the keenness of Libyan officials to strengthen relations with ICESCO in its areas of competence.

ICESCO reiterated its commitment to continue coordinating with Libyan stakeholders in the field of education, science, and culture, to develop the existing partnership through initiatives, programs, and projects that align with the Libya’s goals and meet its needs in these areas.
On his part, Dr. Ammari commended ICESCO’s efforts, stating that Dr. AlMalik’s visit to Tripoli signals a new chapter in Libya-ICESCO relations. Furthermore, he highlighted the formation of a working team to prepare a detailed report on the visit’s outcomes, and to refine the discussed programs and projects joint implementation.

Both parties agreed to have a Libyan working team visit ICESCO’s headquarters to finalize a draft executive agreement for partnership in various programs and projects. This agreement is expected to be signed in the near future. It was also agreed that ICESCO would assist Libya in capacity-building initiatives.

Today, Wednesday 22 May 2024, saw the launch of the International Conference “The Dictionary and its Uses in Teaching Arabic to Arabic and Non-Arabic Speakers: Assessment and Development,” organized by the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) and the Doha Historical Dictionary of Arabic Language Establishment, at the Organization’s headquarters in Rabat over a two-day period. The Conference saw high-level attendance, including ambassadors, representatives of accredited diplomatic missions in the Kingdom of Morocco, as well as experts and researchers from around the world.

The Conference, which was convened in a hybrid mode, kicked-off with a recitation of verses from the Holy Quran, followed by a welcome speech by Dr. Majdi Bin Haji Ibrahim, Head of ICESCO’s Arabic Language Center for Non-Arabic Speakers, in which he shed light on the Conference’s importance, the context of its organization, and its objectives.

During his opening remarks at the Conference, Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, ICESCO Director-General, emphasized the significance of the Conference’s theme, where sciences converge to serve the rich Arabic language and consolidate its global presence. His Excellency noted that the Doha Historical Dictionary of Arabic Language aims not only to preserve the language, but also to facilitate its understanding in an educational context, for study and research into scientific, intellectual, and social transformations, highlighting the vibrancy of the human community making use of this Dictionary.

Dr. AlMalik pointed out that the communication and digital revolution prompts questions about the Dictionary’s ability to meet the intellectual, cultural, and scientific needs of youth. The Director-General praised Qatar’s contributions to the universality of Arabic, and, in particular, the Doha Historical Dictionary of Arabic Language, reviewing ICESCO’s diverse projects and programs in various fields of Arabic language promotion, and revealing its future plans in this regard.

Dr. Azeddine Bouchikhi, Executive Director of the Doha Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Language, considered the organization of this Conference, which includes scholars and researchers from various parts of the world, a confirmation of ICESCO’s status as a beacon of cultural and civilizational influence, reflecting the efforts of the Doha Dictionary aiming to establish a dictionary that documents the transformations of the Arabic language over 20 centuries.

He also stressed the necessity of planning linguistic and lexicographical projects that are feasible and executable, keeping pace with the scientific advancements in theoretical and applied linguistics. The conference presents 28 peer-reviewed research papers in a printed book in two parts totaling 700 pages.

In his address, Dr. Mustapha Abou Maârouf, President of Sultan Moulay Slimane University in Beni Mellal, and representative of academic universities in the Kingdom of Morocco, praised ICESCO’s projects in the field of Arabic language for non-Arabic speakers, acknowledging the dedication of Arabic language scholars throughout generations, culminating in the commendable efforts of the Doha Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Language.

Following the opening session, the Conference’s working sessions began on its first day, during which experts discussed several topics in three sessions, focusing on dictionaries and their educational uses for both Arabic and non-Arabic speakers.

Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General (DG) of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), participated in the International Conference of Science and the Quran held in Tehran, Iran, on May 19, 2024. The Conference was attended by Dr. Jamileh Alamolhoda, Secretary of the Council for the Transformation and Renewal of the National Education System of the Islamic Republic of Iran, along with a distinguished group of officials, scholars, and professors interested in studying the relation between the Quran and science.

The Conference, hosted by the University of Tehran, is set to discuss eight main themes and present research papers from scholars representing 11 countries. The aim is to encourage scientific studies in universities and international intellectual and scientific research centers focusing on the relation between the Quran and science.

Following the opening session of the Conference, Dr. AlMalik met with Dr. Jamileh Alamolhoda to explore prospects for cooperation between ICESCO and Iran, particularly in education development, scientific miracles in the Quran, and enhancing women’s contributions to building societies in the Islamic world.

At the beginning of the meeting, Dr. AlMalik underscored the key elements of ICESCO’s vision and strategic objectives, highlighting its activities, programs, and initiatives. He particularly emphasized efforts in building the capacities and enhancing the skills of women and girls, reaffirming the Organization’s belief in their crucial role in achieving sustainable development in the Islamic world.

Dr. AlMalik highlighted ICESCO dedication to empowering women and girls through numerous projects, programs, and pioneering initiatives for their benefit, such as declaring 2021 as the Year of Women. The Organization has also launched programs to address school dropouts among girls in its Member States and organized international conferences on women’s participation in sports, as well as women’s leadership in universities. He pointed out that ICESCO’s acknowledgment of the importance of women’s roles is reflected in the fact that nearly 50% of the Organization’s leadership positions are held by women.

Dr. Jamileh Alamolhoda, for her part, praised ICESCO’s efforts in developing the fields of education, science, and culture in its Member States and its endeavors to qualify women and girls in the Islamic world. She further affirmed Iran’s commitment to enhancing cooperation with the Organization.

Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General (DG) of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), met with Mr. Reza Morad Sahraei, Minister of Education of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Chairman of the Iranian National Commission for ICESCO, to discuss ways to enhance cooperation between ICESCO and Iran in areas of common interest.

At the outset of the meeting, held on May 18, 2024, at the headquarters of the Iranian Ministry of Education as part of his visit to Tehran, Dr. AlMalik outlined the main points of ICESCO’s vision and strategic directions, along with key initiatives, programs, and projects it implements within its areas of competence. He emphasized the Organization’s approach of engaging with relevant entities in the Member States to understand their orientations and needs, enabling the design of tailored programs and projects for each country.

In turn, the Iranian Minister of Education praised ICESCO’s roles and the support the Organization provides to its Member States under its new vision, reaffirming the Islamic Republic of Iran’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with the Organization.

The meeting was attended by several ministry officials, the Secretary-General of the Iranian National Commission, and the accompanying delegation of ICESCO’s DG. The Minister presented various initiative ideas for cooperation with the Organization, particularly in education, youth capacity building, and scientific research development. These ideas included an initiative to support talented individuals in science and mathematics from across the Islamic world and host them at a major forum in Iran. Additionally, he expressed Iran’s desire to host the upcoming ICESCO Executive Council meetings.

The meeting also discussed cooperation in developing educational curricula, with the Iranian Minister of Education expressing his country’s willingness to host some of ICESCO’s conferences and seminars on this topic. The Minister also stressed that the rapid technological advancements necessitate updating educational curricula to keep pace with these developments.

At the conclusion of the meeting, it was agreed to maintain ongoing coordination to develop implementation plans for future cooperation programs and to discuss the initiatives that Iran will propose to ICESCO for adoption after mutual agreement.

Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), met with Mr. Khadiullin Ilsur Garaevich, Minister of Education and Science of the Republic of Tatarstan, to discuss prospects for cooperation between the Organization and the Ministry in areas of common interest.

During the meeting, held on 17 May 2024, in Kazan, the capital of the Republic of Tatarstan, on the sidelines of the Russia-Islamic World International Economic Forum, Dr. AlMalik emphasized ICESCO’s commitment, within its new vision, to openness and partnerships with all, to enhance the exchange of expertise and contribute to the development of education, science, and culture in the Islamic world.

Dr. AlMalik also invited the Minister of Education and Science of Tatarstan to attend the Conference of Ministers of Education in Islamic Countries, which is scheduled to be organized by ICESCO and in Muscat, the Sultanate of Oman, in October.

The meeting centered on discussing proposals for cooperation in education, science, and the advancement of scientific research through the joint implementation of practical programs and projects. It was agreed to sustain coordination efforts to foster a productive partnership between ICESCO and the Ministry of Education and Science of Tatarstan.

Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General (DG) of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), held a meeting with Ms. Elena Shmeleva, Chairperson of the Board of the Federal Territory « Sirius » in Russia and President of the Talent and Success Foundation, to explore prospects for cooperation between ICESCO and the Foundation, and exchanged successful experiences in education and talent support.

During the meeting, held on May 27, 2024, in Kazan, on the sidelines of the “Russia-Islamic World” International Economic Forum, Dr. AlMalik reviewed the main initiatives, programs, and projects that ICESCO is implementing in collaboration with specialized entities in its Member States, particularly in the areas of education, capacity building, innovation enhancement, and entrepreneurship support.

Ms. Shmeleva shared insights and experiences on advancing education and nurturing talents within the Federal Territory « Sirius » and the Talent and Success Foundation, which supports talented persons from across the Russian Federation. Additionally, she highlighted the Foundation’s collaborations with several entities in ICESCO Member States.

The meeting discussed proposals for cooperation between the two sides, as Dr. AlMalik invited the President of the Talent and Success Foundation to present the latter’s successful experience at the Conference of Ministers of Education of ICESCO Member States, scheduled to be held in Oman in October.

At the conclusion of the meeting, both sides agreed to form working teams and maintain ongoing coordination to develop plans for cooperation and partnership through practical programs and projects to be implemented in the coming phase.

Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General (DG) of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), met with Mr. Mintimer Shaimiev, State Counsellor of the Republic of Tatarstan, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Revival Regional Foundation for Historical and Cultural Monuments, and UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador for Intercultural Dialogue, to discuss cooperation avenues between ICESCO and Tatarstan in cultural fields, particularly in the preservation and valorization of heritage and Arabic language teaching.

Dr. AlMalik began the meeting, which took place on Friday May 17, 2024, at the representative building of the Kazan Kremlin, by expressing his appreciation for the efforts of the Revival Regional Foundation for for Historical and Cultural Monuments in preserving heritage. He congratulated Mr. Shaimiev on the inscription of the Kazan City Observatory in the Republic of Tatarstan on ICESCO’s Islamic World Heritage List.

Furthermore, he emphasized that ICESCO’s new vision and strategic directions prioritize the protection, preservation, and valorization of heritage. Accordingly, the Organization established the Heritage Center and the Islamic World Heritage Committee, to inscribe historical sites and cultural elements on its lists of tangible and intangible heritage.
For his part, the State Counsellor of the Republic of Tatarstan praised ICESCO’s roles in preserving heritage, calling for the inclusion of the “Sabantuy” festival on the Organization’s list of intangible heritage. This is one of the most important harvest festivals celebrated since the Middle Ages, translating to ” plough’s feast,” and features many artistic activities every year.

The meeting also discussed ways to enhance cooperation between ICESCO and Tatarstan in cultural fields and heritage, as well as the Arabic language, by establishing ICESCO’s center for teaching Arabic at the Bolgar Islamic Academy in Bolgar, Russia, which celebrated the 1100th anniversary of the introduction of Islam in 2022.

At the conclusion of the meeting, both sides emphasized their commitment to developing cooperation between ICESCO and Tatarstan and continuing coordination to implement practical programs and projects in areas of mutual interest discussed during the meeting.