The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) invites researchers and specialists to contribute to the “Series of Studies in Arabic Language Teaching to Non-Arabic Speakers 2025,” regularly published by the ICESCO Center of Arabic for Non-Arabic Speakers. This initiative aims to support the Organization’s policies in promoting scientific research and publishing in the field of Arabic language, capitalize on modern linguistic and educational theories and the latest technologies, and enhance its global status.
Interested researchers can apply by sending a book abstract of up to 200 words, along with their research plan, CV, and a copy of their passport to stans@icesco.org by April 15, 2025. Shortlisted candidates will be notified of the acceptance of their abstracts within two weeks.
For more information on participation and publishing terms, please visit: https://icesco.org/9jyh.
It is worth noting that this project has so far contributed to applied linguistic studies with four scientific series that incorporate the latest linguistic theories. Participating experts have shared their expertise, experience, and research, as well as educational initiatives, to serve Arabic language learners. Their contributions have equipped teachers with methods, strategies, and skills that enhance learners’ linguistic proficiency, cultural competence, and professional achievement.
The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) held a workshop titled “Cultural Diplomacy: The Sunny Dimension of Foreign Policy” on Friday, March 21, 2025, via videoconference. The event brought together experts from ICESCO Member States, along with a panel of academics and professionals in the cultural field, to examine the essential role of cultural diplomacy in strengthening international relations.
As part of the activities of ICESCO’s international think tank “Culture for Rethinking the World,” Mr. Frédéric Jambu and Ms. Manuela Nicoletti, experts at ICESCO’s Culture Sector, delivered a lecture on the fundamental concepts, key actors, and effectiveness of cultural diplomacy in the current context of globalization. They highlighted its strategic role in promoting cooperation and dialogue between nations.
The discussions also addressed the contemporary challenges of cultural diplomacy in the face of globalization, as well as the impact of new technologies and digital transformation on international cultural policies. During this Meeting, ICESCO reaffirmed its commitment to fostering cultural industries and advancing cultural diplomacy worldwide by promoting their role as facilitators of global cultural exchange and intercultural dialogue based on mutual respect.
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.
The scientific forum “Ramadan Journey into the Depths of the Human Soul,” organized by the Group of Spouses of Arab Ambassadors and Heads of International Organizations in the Kingdom of Morocco, continues its sessions. The forum’s third session was held at the headquarters of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) on Tuesday, March 18, 2025. Dr. Khadija Abouzid, Professor of Higher Education at Mohammed V University, delivered a lecture titled “From the Depth of the Well to the Top of the Ultimate Empowerment: Lessons from Surat Yusuf on Taking Initiative.” The session was attended by Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, ICESCO Director-General, alongside several ambassadors and distinguished intellectual and academic figures.
The session opened with remarks from Dr. Yousra Bint Hussain Al-Jazairy, a member of the Group of Spouses of Arab Ambassadors, who underscored the valuable lessons in patience, planning, and perseverance found in the story of Prophet Yusuf (Joseph) (peace be upon him). She explained that this session builds on the previous discussion of Ya‘quubian Education, highlighting how Prophet Ya‘qub’s (Jacob’s) (peace be upon him) upbringing of Yusuf shaped his resilience and strength, enabling him to overcome hardships and achieve empowerment and honor. Dr. Al-Jazairy emphasized that Yusuf’s story is more than a historical account, as it offers practical lessons relevant to modern life.
In her lecture, Dr. Khadija Abouzid outlined five key pillars of success drawn from Surat Yusuf. The first is knowledge and expertise, as Prophet Yusuf gained the skills and wisdom needed to manage crises and make sound decisions, ultimately qualifying him for a high-ranking position in Egypt. The second is piety and integrity, as he remained steadfast in his values despite temptations and challenges, highlighting the role of ethical commitment in achieving true success.
The third pillar revolves around strength and trustworthiness, as his leadership qualities emerged through his responsible and upright conduct, earning the confidence of Egypt’s Captain of the Guard (Al-‘Azeez). The fourth is initiative and decision-making, as Prophet Yusuf was not merely a passive recipient of events but an active participant who anticipated challenges and proposed solutions, demonstrated in his strategic plan to manage Egypt’s impending famine. Lastly, the fifth pillar is truthfulness, which, according to Dr. Abouzid, was not only reflected in Prophet Yusuf’s words but also in his actions and decisions, making him a model of honesty and transparency.
Concluding her lecture, Dr. Abouzid explored the concept of empowerment, explaining that Prophet Yusuf’s empowerment was not solely material, manifesting in authority and rulership, but also an inspiring form of empowerment that encompassed wisdom, knowledge, leadership, compassion, forbearance, and piety. Dr. Abouzid highlighted that after enduring severe trials, from the depths of the well to imprisonment, Allah granted him authority over Egypt’s wealth, allowing him to manage its resources as he saw fit. This, she noted, was a divine reward for his righteousness, patience, and steadfast adherence to the truth, as he responded to harm with forgiveness and to conspiracies with wisdom and magnanimity.
The session concluded with an open discussion, during which attendees posed questions on ways to implement the values and principles derived from Prophet Yusuf’s story in contemporary personal and professional contexts.
The Centre for Civilizational Dialogue of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) has released a new book titled Ahmad Baba al-Timbukti: A Model of Civilizational Diplomacy in West Africa. This publication is part of the programs celebrating Marrakech as the Capital of Culture in the Islamic World 2024.
The book presents the proceedings of a scientific symposium organized by Cadi Ayyad University in Marrakech under ICESCO’s auspices. It explores the life and legacy of Ahmad Baba al-Timbukti (1556–1627), one of the most prominent scholars, jurists (faqih), and historians in the region’s history. The book highlights his role in fostering civilizational exchange between Morocco and sub-Saharan Africa, emphasizing his contributions to knowledge diplomacy, which played a crucial role in strengthening cultural and scholarly relations across the Sahara.
Additionally, the book examines key moments in Ahmad Baba’s life, including his exile to Marrakech, where he continued his academic work in teaching and authorship. It delves into his influence on Islamic sciences and provides an in-depth analysis of Morocco’s historical ties with West Africa. Furthermore, it underscores the role of scholars in preserving Islamic heritage while highlighting the significance of African manuscripts in safeguarding the region’s cultural identity.
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.
The Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) has been awarded the ‘Certified Innovative Organization’ shield during its recent participation in the Global Innovation Summit. The event, organized by the Arab Network for Creativity and Innovation, took place in the Sustainable City in Dubai on February 25–26, 2025, in partnership with the Global Innovation Institute (GInI) in the United States.
This global recognition marks the culmination of ICESCO’s past achievements and follows its certification as a ‘Certified Innovative Organization (CInOrg)’ by GInI in October 2024. The Organization underwent a comprehensive evaluation by GInI experts, who assessed its innovation policies, program implementation methodologies, impact on Member States, and integration of strategic partners. ICESCO attained the prestigious ‘Champion’ level, awarded to institutions that uphold the highest standards of institutional innovation.
Dr. Salim Omar Salim, Director of ICESCO’s Regional Office in Sharjah, received the award on behalf of the Organization. Summit organizers commended ICESCO’s efforts in fostering a culture of innovation within its departments and initiatives, as well as its role in supporting Member States in developing sustainable innovation strategies.
The Summit witnessed high-profile Arab and international participation. Over two days, attendees explored innovation across various sectors, including government services, community development, healthcare, and education. The event featured specialized presentations and panel discussions led by global experts, who emphasized that innovation is no longer optional but a strategic necessity for institutional growth and societal advancement.
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) is pressing ahead with ambitious steps to revamp its organizational structure, ensuring it remains aligned with global developments and meets the aspirations of Member States. These accelerated efforts reflect ICESCO’s commitment to its role in advancing its areas of competence and reaffirming its strategic vision as a beacon of cultural and intellectual influence for the Islamic world.
As part of these efforts, ICESCO has established new specialized sectors, including Media and Communication, as well as dedicated centers for Poetry and Literature, Calligraphy and Manuscripts, and Training. This restructuring received unanimous approval from ICESCO’s Executive Council during its 45th session, held on Wednesday, 26 February 2025, in Tunis under the patronage of President Kais Saied.
On this occasion, Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, ICESCO Director-General, emphasized that the new organizational structure aims to expand the Organization’s scope in creative fields. He highlighted ICESCO’s recent initiatives in environmental studies, foresight, artificial intelligence, and space sciences and their applications, where the Organization has either pioneered innovative programs or made significant strides in helping Islamic countries catch up with global advancements.
Dr. AlMalik further noted that ICESCO’s achievements over the past five years stem from several key factors, including attracting top talents from across the Islamic world, securing innovative funding sources beyond the general budget, promoting creativity and innovation, empowering youth and women, and leveraging cutting-edge technologies to programs outreach.
Mr. Osama Heikal, Head of ICESCO’s Media and Communication Sector and former Minister of Information of Egypt, stated that a strategic plan for 2025–2030 has been developed to position ICESCO as a leading international reference in media, communication, and creative industries, and establish it as a hub for the dissemination of knowledge, culture, and human values. The plan includes an international forum for media leaders, the launch of a specialized media platform, a media academy, a women’s media center, and awards for excellence.
Rawda Al-Haj, expert in ICESCO’s Culture Sector and a renowned Sudanese poet, stated that the Poetry and Literature Center will enrich the cultural landscape of the Islamic world, expand horizons in poetry and literature, and strengthen literary ties among countries of the Islamic world, with the aim of making ICESCO a world poetry and literature venue. The Center’s initiatives include releasing the ICESCO Cultural Journal, organizing an international poetry festival and various literary competitions.
Dr. Idham Hanish, expert in the Culture Sector and a prominent Arabic calligrapher, highlighted that the Calligraphy and Manuscripts Center will focus on both traditional and modern calligraphy, integrating digital printing and artificial intelligence while supporting calligraphers and artisans. The Center plans to develop the ICESCO typographic font and publish the Illustrated Dictionary of the History of Arabic Calligraphy.
For his part, Mr. Mohamed Hedi Shili, Head of ICESCO Legal Affairs and International Standards Department, stated that the Training Center will serve as a comprehensive platform offering capacity-building programs to develop human resources, empower local communities in Member States in various fields, harness cultural resources for sustainable development, and enhance staff competencies within ICESCO.
ICESCO’s ambitious steps come just one year after a major administrative and structural overhaul in collaboration with the Saudi Institute of Public Administration, a leading institution in institutional development. This led to the creation of the Strategy and Institutional Excellence Sector, the Islamic World Heritage Center, the Chairs, Scholarships, and Prizes Center, and the Digital Transformation Department. The latest structural amendments, approved by the Executive Council, reinforce ICESCO’s ongoing commitment to renewal and progress, ensuring that it continues to serve the Islamic world effectively and driving its development. These efforts seek to uphold a civilization that has led way in science, literature, and arts, and that laid the groundwork for the renaissance shaping the modern world.
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.
