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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.

Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, ICESCO Director-General, congratulated the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on the occasion of the Founding Day. The Director-General issued a statement on this occasion, describing this day as a celebration of renewed glory and long-standing history.

He added that on this day, February 22, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia celebrates Founding Day, the day when Imam Muhammad bin Saud established the first Saudi State in 1139 AH/1727 AD, marking the beginning of a three-century history of glory and prosperity. He added that this day represents an occasion to recall the sacrifices of ancestors, the efforts of leaders, and the journey that laid the foundations of a nation firmly rooted in its identity, proud of its achievements, and steeped in its glorious history.

Dr. AlMalik stressed that Founding Day transcends being a mere historical anniversary to reflect a story of steadfastness and will, and showcase a link between the past and the present, inspiring generations to move forward on the paths of progress and development. He further explained that the first Saudi State carried the torch of unity and stability, and established the noble values that still shape the Kingdom’s identity to this day.

Following the same path of greatness, he added, the second Saudi State was an extension of that glory, and the march culminated in the establishment of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia by the founding King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Saud, to become a unique model of edification, development and stability.

In the same vein, the Director-General stated that, today, under the wise leadership of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, may Allah protect them, the Kingdom continues its steady progress towards the future, drawing inspiration from its ancient history to achieve its ambitious Vision 2030, which has become a global model in economic development, human empowerment, and the creation of promising opportunities, aiming at reshaping the future and establishing for an integrated economic, cultural and social prosperity.

He concluded his statement stating: Long live the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and long live its march towards a brighter future.

The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) organized the “Youth Knowledge Forum for the Islamic World” at its headquarters in Rabat, in partnership with the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation (MBRF) and in cooperation with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

Launched on Thursday 20 February 2025, under the theme “Knowledge is the Future,” the forum gathered hundreds of young men and women in an atmosphere of enthusiasm and forward-looking discussions. The two-day event aimed to showcase a range of inspiring youth role models and empower the youth of the Islamic world by preparing them for future careers and fostering creativity and innovation in knowledge transfer, dissemination, and localization.

The Forum, marking the conclusion of ICESCO’s Year of Youth, commenced with an address by Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of ICESCO, who emphasized that youth and the future are at the heart of the Forum’s discussions, both being inseparable from knowledge. He underscored that knowledge is the foundation upon which civilizations are built, nations flourish, and the future is shaped. Dr. AlMalik further highlighted that, in Islam, science has always been a means to seek Allah’s pleasure, cultivate life on earth, and advance societies.

Dr. AlMalik, wearing the forum’s jersey during his speech, expressed his delight in holding this event at ICESCO, an organization dedicated to thought and knowledge, distinguished by its youthful spirit. Addressing the young participants, Dr. AlMalik stated, “You are the beating hearts of your communities and the hope of your nations… Those armed with knowledge are the ones who drive positive change.” He further emphasized that the civilization of the Islamic world has long been a model in utilizing knowledge for the service of humanity, instilling in its youth a deep sense of pride in their identity as they move forward toward the future.

In his speech, Dr. Jamal bin Huwaireb, CEO of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation, emphasized the Foundation’s belief that building minds is synonymous with building the future and that investing in human knowledge is the true key to sustainable development. He highlighted the Foundation’s continuous efforts to launch initiatives and design programs that empower young people and enhance their skills. Among its most notable initiatives is the “Youth Knowledge Forum for the Islamic World,” a global platform that fosters innovation and knowledge entrepreneurship while contributing to foresight with an ambitious youth-driven vision.

Moreover, Dr. Huwaireb highlighted the achievements of Islamic world scholars, inspiring young people to follow their path in knowledge, creativity, and innovation. He emphasized that equipping youth with digital skills is imperative to ensure their active participation in driving progress and building sustainable economies.

Following, Mr. Ahmed Nihad Abdel Latif, Ambassador of the Arab Republic of Egypt to the Kingdom of Morocco, extended his sincere congratulations to the organizers, emphasizing the forum’s significance. He underscored that discussing the knowledge system is fundamental to the development of all societies. He further highlighted that this forum marks the culmination of ICESCO’s Year of Youth, which received the support of His Excellency President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and saw the launch of several key initiatives, including 100 presidential scholarships for youth from the Islamic world to pursue studies at Egyptian universities.

For her part, Ms. Ilaria Carnivali, Resident Representative of UNDP in the Kingdom of Morocco, emphasized the rapid pace of digital transformation worldwide. She highlighted that knowledge remains the cornerstone amid advancements in modern technologies and the growing demand for new skills. This, she noted, necessitates intensifying efforts to support youth by equipping them with the necessary skills through education and training, ensuring their readiness for the future and the evolving job market.
Notably, the first day of the forum was moderated by Mr. Nawfel Al Awamleh and Ms. Dalia Ashraf and featured four sessions. The first session explored “The Future of Knowledge in the Age of AI and Digital Transformation.” The second session touched on “UNDP Youth Initiatives,” while the third focused on “ICESCO Youth Initiatives.” The fourth and fifth sessions showcased inspiring success stories of youth.

The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) and the Standing Committee on Scientific and Technological Cooperation (COMSTECH), in cooperation with Mohammed V University in Rabat, held on Monday, February 17, 2025, the International Health Conference on “Transforming Global Health: Tackling Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs).” The three-day conference aims to offer a platform for researchers, officials, policymakers, healthcare workers, and students to discuss suitable mechanisms to contribute to countering NTDs and fostering equal treatment opportunities.

During the opening session, Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, ICESCO Director-General, stated that the conference reflects a shared commitment to fighting one of the most pressing health challenges, further explaining that despite the great advancements in medical research, NTDs still affect more than a billion people worldwide, especially in poor communities. He added that achieving comprehensive health justice necessitates the eradication of these diseases, reaffirming ICESCO’s commitment to sustaining its efforts to address NTDs, in line with its steadfast belief in the dire need to promote its Member States’ healthcare systems, consolidate international cooperation, and mobilize the scientific expertise needed to achieve this goal. He also stressed that combating these diseases requires multilateral cooperation and long-term investments, an objective targeted by this conference through providing field training to 50 participants and equipping healthcare workers with the necessary skills and expertise to replicate them in their countries.

For his part, Dr. Iqbal Choudhary, COMSTECH Coordinator General, stated that the fight against NTDs requires the global community’s attention to strive to fill in the information gaps regarding their complex composition, contagious nature, and numerous outbreak factors, commending the joint programs and initiatives of ICESCO and COMSTECH in service of the Member States and humanity at large.

Speaking next, Dr. Amal Thimou, Vice Dean for Academic and Research Affairs at the Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy at Mohammed V University in Rabat, underlined the need for the global community to share the responsibility of guaranteeing a safe and healthy world where individuals can live in communities that uphold health as a priority and a right for all.

Afterward, the first working session was held under the theme: “Eradicating Neglected Tropical Diseases: A Global Health Imperative.” The session was moderated by Mr. Anas Doukkali, Former Minister of Health of Morocco, and brought together a host of international officials and experts to discuss NTDs as a major global health issue facing poor communities. The session also discussed the devastating economic repercussions of the lack of awareness of these diseases, stressing the need for concerted efforts, leveraging modern technology, and increasing funding for scientific medical research to promote prevention measures and curb their natural and climate-induced spread.

The second session, moderated by Dr. Raheel Qamar, Head of the Science and Environment Sector, discussed the theme, “Tackling Neglected Tropical Diseases: Field Perspectives and Best Practices,” with the participation of international experts and officials. The session addressed states’ effective practices to prevent the spread of tropical diseases, notably the Kingdom of Morocco, considered a model in fighting a number of diseases such as leishmaniasis, leprosy, and trachoma, following effective strategies.

Discussions also focused on the importance of promoting accurate diagnosis, building the capacities of healthcare workers, and capitalizing on impactful success stories as key levers of change.

On the sidelines of the conference, training sessions on countering NTDs will be organized for the benefit of 50 participants from ICESCO’s Member States, both at the Organization’s headquarters and the Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy at Mohammed V University in Rabat.