The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) is pleased to announce the launch of its photography contest, “Marrakech Heritage through the Eyes of Youth”, as part of the celebration of Marrakech as Culture Capital in the Islamic for 2024.
The contest aims to raise awareness of the importance of preserving tangible and intangible cultural heritage in the city and encourage youth from the Islamic world and beyond to showcase their talents and creativity in documenting cultural heritage.
The contest offers prizes in two categories: Tangible Cultural Heritage and Intangible Cultural Heritage, with the three winners from each category receiving USD 500, USD 350, and USD250, respectively. The Contest also offers incentive prizes for outstanding works ranking fourth and fifth, amounting to USD100.
A committee of experts will evaluate the participating works to select the winners, who will be awarded during the closing ceremony of the celebrations of Marrakesh Culture Capital in the Islamic World. Winning works will also be displayed in a special exhibition.
The contest is open for participants up to the age of 35 to submit 5 to 10 original, high-quality photographs that have not been previously published, along with a declaration of intellectual property rights to ICESCO. Deadline for submissions is set for October 30, 2024.
For more information on the Contest, please contact us at prixphotographie.kech@icesco.org
The two-day 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, concluded its proceedings at the Organization’s headquarters in Rabat. The Conference featured several scientific research, rich discussions, and an exchange of experiences and ideas among a host of scientists and researchers from diverse scientific institutions across multiple countries.
The Conference’s sessions, held in-person and live-streamed, revolved around five main themes: “Approaches to the Relationship between Dictionaries and Language Teaching,” “Educational Uses of Traditional Dictionaries for Arabic and Non-Arabic Speakers,” “Educational Uses of Modern Dictionaries for Arabic and Non-Arabic Speakers,” “Doha Historical Dictionary: Prospects and Educational Uses for Arabic and Non-Arabic Speakers, and “Standards for Developing an Arabic Dictionary for Arabic and Non-Arabic Speakers.” Moreover, Mishkat Hall hosted parallel sessions for international experts.
The participating experts issued a set of recommendations in the Conference’s closing statement. These recommendations called for benefiting from the experiences of previous dictionaries for Arabic and non-Arabic speakers, fostering a deeper and newer understanding and vision to develop innovative educational tools that advance and update the Arabic linguistic repertoire, and developing an Arabic dictionary with frequency-ranked lists of words.
Furthermore, the Conference’s closing statement emphasized the necessity of directing particular attention to dictionaries as an educational and pedagogical tool and ensuring their proper use by taking into account the cultural context.
The Conference called for educational reform based on communicative approaches to improve the teaching practices for Arabic and non-Arabic speakers, balancing the use of paper and electronic dictionaries and disseminating the Conference’s papers and recommendations to national, regional, and international institutions concerned with teaching and learning Arabic.
In addition, the International Conference will publish a two-volume proceedings book that compiles 35 peer-reviewed papers, selected by a dedicated scientific jury from a pool of 120 papers, authored by specialized experts and researchers from various universities and educational institutions worldwide. The papers of the proceedings book were organized into four chapters: “Educational Uses of Dictionaries for Arabic and Non-Arabic Speakers,” “Doha Historical Dictionary: Prospects and Educational Uses for Arabic and Non-Arabic Speakers,“ “Standards for Developing an Arabic Dictionary for Arabic and Non-Arabic Speakers,” and “Approaches to the Relationship between Dictionaries and Language Teaching.”
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.
A delegation from the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) is taking part at the 20th edition of the World Education Forum, the largest international gathering of Ministers of Education and Training, hosted by the British capital, London, from May 19 to 22, 2024, in the presence of more than 120 ministers from 110 countries, including ministerial delegations from 33 ICESCO Member States.
The ICESCO delegation, which is presided over by Dr. Marwan Awartani, Senior Advisor to ICESCO’s Director General, includes Dr. Ahmad Albanyan, Head of the Division of Education for All at the Education Sector and Mr. Waqas Afridi, expert at the same Sector. The agenda includes discussions on prioritizing policies and applications to ensure strong education systems and promote inclusive, equitable and quality education for all. It also focuses on the role of technology in enhancing learning, and the need for innovative education systems that provide concrete solutions to key issues such as climate change.
On the sidelines of the Forum meetings, ICESCO’s delegation held a series of meetings with several heads of delegations from Member States, including the Ministers of Education of the Kyrgyz Republic, the Republic of Sierra Leone, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Republic of Lebanon, the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and the delegation representing the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The delegation also met with representatives of many organizations and bodies, including a meeting with the President of the World Education Forum and with a group of leading companies in the field of education.
ICESCO will hold a high-level ministerial meeting of its Member States’ Ministers of Education on the Process of Transformation of Education, on Wednesday 22 May 2024 in London, following the conclusion of the World Education Forum, to exchange views and experiences on the opportunities, challenges and partnerships needed at decision-making level during the education transformation process. The meeting will also provide an opportunity to discuss the draft agenda and action plan for the Third Conference of Ministers of Education of ICESCO Member States, to be held on October 2-3, 2024 in Oman.
The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) conveys its sincere condolences to the government and people of the Islamic Republic of Iran on the death of President Ebrahim Raisi and his accompanying Iranian officials in the helicopter crash, that occurred on Sunday, 19 May 2024, in East Azerbaijan Province, northwest of Iran.
At this painful moment, the General Directorate of ICESCO expresses its solidarity with Iran and extends its sincere condolences to the families of the victims, beseeching Allah Almighty to bestow His mercy on them, admit them to His Paradise, and grant their families’ patience and solace.
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.
The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) and the Saudi Ministry of Culture, represented by the National Commission for Education, Culture, and Science, signed an executive program aimed at providing training opportunities for Saudi youth within ICESCO’s sectors, centers, and departments. This initiative seeks to familiarize them with the Organization’s role and operational mechanisms, enhance their capabilities, and expose them to the work environment of international organizations and institutions.
The Agreement was signed on 17 May 2024 by Dr. Salim Al Habsi, Head of the General Secretariat of National Commissions and Conferences at ICESCO, and Mr. Ahmed bin Abdulaziz AlBlihed, Secretary-General of the Saudi National Commission for Education, Culture, and Science, on the sidelines of the 27th session of the General Conference of the Arab League Educational, Cultural and Scientific Organization (ALECSO) held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
The two-year executive program focuses on exchanging expertise and capacity building by providing training opportunities for Saudi competences in the cultural sector. It also explores the possibility of establishing training programs at ICESCO for candidates nominated by the Saudi National Commission. The program aims to develop trainees’ capacities, evaluate their progress, and equip them with new skills and knowledge to enhance their professional and intellectual abilities. Additionally, it seeks to train them in leadership in education, science, culture, and communication.
The executive program outlines methods for preparing and implementing training programs through the exchange of visits between official delegations and experts specialized in conducting studies and research in education, culture, and science. It includes organizing training programs, workshops, and seminars for specialists and forming a joint working team from both sides.
