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    Regional Workshop on Islamic World AI Charter Concludes Proceedings in Oman

    Posted on by MOHAMED.AQEIL

    On Wednesday, July 3rd, 2024, the Islamic World AI Charter for Asia and Middle East Regions Workshop concluded its proceedings. The two-day workshop featured rich discussions and an exchange of ideas among a select group of officials, experts, and representatives of ICESCO Member States. They presented the results of their discussions on the ethical principles of artificial intelligence to be included in the Charter, as well as their proposals for oversight and governance mechanisms to ensure the proper application of these principles.

    Participants in this workshop, organized by the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), in partnership with the University of Technology and Applied Sciences (UTAS) and the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology of Oman, and in collaboration with the Omani National Commission for Education, Culture and Science, emphasized the necessity of drafting legal and ethical frameworks to govern artificial intelligence. The participants also stressed the need to carry this out in tandem with building human capacities to use AI and the importance of aligning the Islamic World Charter for Artificial Intelligence with international charters, while considering the specificities and values of the Islamic world. Moreover, they called for balancing innovation and scientific research with the protection of individual rights, stressing the importance of awareness-raising and capacity-building.

    At the beginning of the second day of the Workshop, held as part of the activities of ICESCO Chair for Artificial Intelligence Ethics at UTAS in Oman and in preparation for the Islamic World Charter for Artificial Intelligence, Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, ICESCO Director General, gave his remarks prior to the start of the working group discussions, where he underscored the necessity of integrating an ethical value system into the Charter to achieve its intended purpose, with a focus on creativity, individual freedom, and equity.

    Dr. AlMalik added that although the application of artificial intelligence across various domains yields substantial advantages, its unethical use poses significant risks, such as its use in preparing research and studies for academic degrees, which represents a form of academic plagiarism and corruption.

    In his statement, Dr. Kais Hammami, Head of ICESCO’s Center for Foresight and Artificial Intelligence, reviewed the Center’s efforts and methodology in promoting the culture of foresight, foundational principles of methodological analysis, dynamic scenario building, and the use of the Arabic language in this domain.

    Speaking next, Dr. Said Bin Salem Jaboob, Deputy Vice Chancellor of UTAS for Postgraduate Studies, Research, and Innovation, stated that preparing the initial draft of the Charter’s articles is a significant step towards establishing a solid framework for AI ethics and governance in Asia and the Middle East.

    The second day’s agenda included brainstorming sessions to develop a comprehensive vision for the Islamic World Charter for Artificial Intelligence. Experts and researchers were divided into four groups, each discussing multiple scenarios to derive several ethical principles necessary for better drafting of the Charter.

    Agreement Signing to Hold Third Conference of Education Ministers of ICESCO Member States in Oman

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    Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General (DG) of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), and Dr. Madiha Ahmed Al-Shaibani, Minister of Education and President of the Omani National Commission for Education, Culture, and Science, attended today, Wednesday, July 3rd, 2024, at the Ministry’s headquarters in Muscat, the signing of the agreement for Oman to host the Third Conference of Education Ministers of ICESCO Member States, scheduled for October 2-3 , 2024.

    The Agreement was signed by Ms. Amna bint Salem Al Balushi, Secretary-General of the Omani National Commission for Education, Culture, and Science, and Dr. Salim Al Habsi, Director of the General Secretariat of National Commissions and Conferences at ICESCO.

    During the meeting, attended by several Ministry officials, the DG expressed thanks and appreciation to the Sultanate of Oman, represented by its Ministry of Education and National Commission, for the initiative to host the Conference and for preparations made so far to ensure its success.

    Dr. AlMalik stated that this conference mirrors ICESCO’s efforts to revamp its ministerial conferences, as it will feature key documents addressing the state of the Islamic world post-Transforming Education Summit, in addition to other key themes such as Green Education, and Girls’ Education, prepared by experts from renowned international universities and research centers.

    For her part, Dr. Madiha Ahmed Al-Shaibani praised ICESCO’s efforts in preparing for the Conference, reaffirming her country’s keenness to provide all facilitations to ensure the success of this key event.

    The Meeting also touched upon the Conference’s organizational arrangements, with both sides emphasizing the importance of its outcomes, including studies, documents, and recommendations, to emerge as a significant addition to the efforts of Islamic countries in updating their educational systems to keep pace with the rapid global developments and transformations.

    Agreement to Develop Cooperation between ICESCO and Environment Authority in Oman

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    Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General (DG) of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), met with Dr. Abdullah bin Ali Al Amri, Chairman of the Environment Authority in Oman, to discuss ways to enhance cooperation between the Organization and the Authority in areas of mutual interest, particularly in advancing scientific research in environmental protection.

    During the meeting, held on Wednesday, July 3rd, 2024, at the Authority’s headquarters in Muscat, and attended by Ms. Amna Al-Balushi, Secretary of the Omani National Commission for Education, Culture, and Science, Dr. AlMalik highlighted ICESCO’s new vision and strategic orientations that prioritize supporting Member States’ efforts to preserve the environment. He stated that ICESCO is committed to mitigate the negative impact of climate change, and rationalize the use of natural resources, in view of contributing to building a sustainable and green future in the Islamic world.

    Dr. AlMalik further emphasized the Organization’s commitment to fostering fruitful cooperation with the Authority, facilitating the transfer of expertise, and exchanging information with counterpart bodies in the Islamic world. He noted that ICESCO will participate with a distinguished pavilion at the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP 29), which will be hosted by Azerbaijan next November.

    For his part, Dr. Al Amri commended ICESCO’s efforts in supporting its Member States in its areas of competence. He also outlined the main objectives of the Authority, including preserving natural and renewable resources and raising communities’ awareness of key environmental concepts.

    The meeting also discussed proposals for cooperation between the two sides, such as establishing a chair for environmental studies at an Omani university, ICESCO’s participation in the Oman Conference for Environmental Sustainability, held annually in Muscat in February, and the Environment Authority’s participation in the third Conference of Ministers of Education for ICESCO’s Member States, which Oman will host this year, on October 2-3.

    At the end of the meeting, the two parties agreed to maintain coordination and develop implementation plans for the proposed areas of cooperation discussed.

    The meeting was attended by Dr. Salim Al-Habsi, Head of the General Secretariat for National Commissions and Conferences, and Mr. Samy Al Kamhawy, Head of the Department of Information and Institutional Identity at ICESCO.

    ICESCO’s Seminar in Dakhla Explores Relationship Between Arabic and Hassaniya Dialect

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    The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), represented by its Center of Arabic for Non-Arabic Speakers, held a scientific seminar titled, “Arabic Language and Hassaniya Dialect: Origins, Interrelations, and Spread.” The Seminar was organized in collaboration with Cadi Ayyad Center for Humanities and Legal Studies (CCSHEJ) and Sahara Center for Human and Social Studies, at the National School of Business and Management of Dakhla in Morocco.

    The opening session of the Seminar, which took place on July 1-2 , 2024, featured remarks by Mr. Mohamed Salem Hammia, President of the Regional Council of Oued Ed-Dahab, Morocco, and representatives of the Seminar organizers.

    In his address, Dr. Majdi Haji Ibrahim, Head of ICESCO Center of Arabic for Non-Arabic Speakers, emphasized the significance of the Seminar as it reflects ICESCO’s commitment to extending its projects, programs, and activities in the Organization’s Seat Country, while also focusing on the intangible heritage of its Member States. Dr. Majdi noted that the Hassaniya dialect is a vital resource for cultural exchange across continents, nations, ethnicities, identities, and civilizations, as it exemplifies coexistence and the rejection of intolerance, thus promoting the principles of human fraternity and social security.

    The Seminar, which saw the participation of Dr. Adham Muhammad Ali, Expert at the said Center, featured several research papers that explored the heritage of Hassaniya dialect, its history, cross-cultural exchange and influence, and proposals for its preservation.

    ICESCO and Omani Ministry of Social Development Cooperation Prospects

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    Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General (DG) of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), met with Dr. Laila bint Ahmed Al-Najjar, Minister of Social Development in the Sultanate of Oman, and together they discussed ways to promote cooperation between the Organization and the Ministry in social care and humanitarian affairs through the joint implementation of several initiatives and programs.

    During the meeting held on Tuesday, July 2, 2024, at the Ministry’s headquarters in Muscat, and in the presence of Ms. Amna Al-Balushi, Secretary of the Omani National Commission for Education, Culture, and Science, Dr. AlMalik emphasized that ICESCO places special importance on investing in human capital, as part of the Organization’s vision and strategic orientations to contribute to building healthy, prosperous, and strong communities. This goal, he added, is pursued through the implementation of various initiatives, programs, and projects that focus on supporting girls and women and building the capacities of youth.

    Likewise, Dr. AlMalik pointed out that ICESCO is currently developing its partnerships with countries, international organizations and bodies, and civil society institutions, for the benefit of its Member States and Muslim communities around the world. He seized the opportunity to commend the efforts of the Sultanate of Oman in supporting women and individuals with special needs.

    For her part, Dr. Laila Al-Najjar shed light on the Ministry’s most ambitious programs and projects under the social welfare and development axis of Oman Vision 2040, and the Ministry’s cooperation with the Ministries of Health and Education. The Omani Minister praised ICESCO’s efforts in supporting its Member States in its areas of competence, reaffirming Oman’s keenness to deepen cooperation with the Organization in humanitarian fields.

    At the close of the meeting, the two parties agreed to sustain coordination to collaborate on several programs, projects, and activities of mutual interest that were discussed during the meeting.

    The meeting was attended by Dr. Salim Al-Habsi, Head of the General Secretariat of National Commissions and Conferences, and Mr. Samy El Kamhawy, Head of Media and Institutional Identity at ICESCO.

    Regional Workshop on Islamic World AI Charter Kicks Off in Muscat

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Review of Achievements and Projects of ICESCO International Chairs Network for Thought, Heritage, Letters and Arts

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    The Culture and Communication Sector at the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) held a meeting for the ICESCO International Chairs Network for Thought, Heritage, Letters, and Arts. The meeting brought together the supervisors of the Network’s nine chairs to review their achievements and future projects.

    The meeting, held on Monday, July 1st, 2024, both in-person at ICESCO’s headquarters in Rabat and virtually, was attended by Dr. Mohamed Zinelabidine, Head of the Culture and Communication Sector at the Organization, who thanked the Chairs’ supervisors for their continuous efforts. The ICESCO official urged the Network to work together to address the challenges facing the Islamic world in culture, heritage, thought, literature, social inclusion, and peacebuilding.

    Likewise, Dr. Zinelabidine emphasized the role of ICESCO’s academic chairs in promoting creativity and scientific research, in line with the Organization’s vision to open new horizons and help the Islamic world keep pace with global transformations.

    In his remarks, Dr. Patrick Mouguiama Daouda, Head of ICESCO’s Chairs, Scholarships, and Prizes Center, outlined the new vision for ICESCO Chairs, which aims to form a network that rethinks the world in a better way and encourages scientific research. He also called for joining efforts to develop innovative projects and programs.

    Ms. Ramata Almamy Mbaye, Head of ICESCO’s Social and Human Sciences Sector, highlighted the need to intensify cooperation among the Chairs to achieve the desired results of ICESCO’s program, launched in June 2020 (Societies We Want), in order to create new models for peace, security, and development in an inclusive and sustainable way.

    Following these discussions, participants reviewed the results of the Network Chairs’ work over the past three years, and presented suggestions to enhance connectivity among the Chairs to build a better future for the Islamic world.

    ICESCO Participates in 24th Arab Radio and TV Festival and ASBU Exhibition Kick Off in Tunis

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    With the participation of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), Tunis witnessed the launch of the 24th Arab Radio and TV Festival, along with the opening of the ASBU Exhibition for Technology, Equipment, and Software Market. The event is jointly organized by the Arab States Broadcasting Union (ASBU) and the Ministry of Cultural Affairs of the Republic of Tunisia, in cooperation with Tunisian Television, the Arab Satellite Communications Organization (Arabsat), and Tunisian Radio. The Festival runs from June 26 to 29, 2024, under the theme: “Free Palestine.”

    The opening ceremony of the Festival, held at the Carthage Amphitheatre on Wednesday, 26 June, 2024, was marked by the high-profile attendance of officials, media professionals, and artists from various countries. Representatives from regional and international media organizations, as well as media production companies, were also present. The Festival honored the guests of the 24th edition, and celebrated several Arab stars. The event concluded with a musical performance by Lebanese artist Ragheb Alama, with proceeds dedicated to supporting the resilient people of Palestine.

    Moreover, the Festival program includes several important seminars, namely: “War Media or War on Media: The Case of Palestine,” “China-Arab States Broadcasting and Television Cooperation Forum,” “Engaging the Audience Using Artificial Intelligence,” and “Digital Stardom and Influencing Public Opinion.”

    On 27 June 2024, the ASBU Exhibition for Technology, Equipment, and Software Market was inaugurated at the Chedli Klibi City of Culture in Tunis. The Exhibition features participation from major production and technology companies in the media field, broadcasting organizations from various countries, and several international organizations, including ICESCO.

    ICESCO is showcasing a special pavilion to present its digital productions in education, science, and culture, including educational and intellectual programs, training courses, and publications such as books, studies, and poetry collections. This content is accessible for free viewing and downloading on ICESCO’s website and social media platforms.

    ICESCO representatives, Mr. Samy El Kamhawy, Head of the Department of Information and Institutional Identity, and Ms. Soukaina Azzabi, Member of the media team, provided insights to visitors on the Organization’s key initiatives and programs, reflecting its new vision and strategic directions. Noteworthy among the initiatives were ICESCO’s efforts to support Palestine in the fields of education, science, and culture, including financial scholarships for Palestinian students at Moroccan and Egyptian universities.

    ICESCO Deputy Director-General Welcomes Sudanese Minister of Social Development

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    Dr. Abdelilah Benarafa, Deputy Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), welcomed Mr. Ahmed Adam Bakhit, Minister of Social Development of the Republic of Sudan, and his accompanying delegation. The Meeting focused on enhancing cooperation between ICESCO and the Ministry in the fields of social protection and psychological healthcare through the implementation of joint programs and projects.

    During the Meeting, held on Thursday, June 27, 2024 at ICESCO headquarters in Rabat, Dr. Benarafa emphasized the Organization’s commitment to partnering with Sudan and addressing the Country’s needs in its areas of expertise, particularly education and social care. He highlighted the challenges facing Sudan, which have impacted development and permeated throughout all segments of society.

    Dr. Benarafa reviewed the initiatives and activities carried out by ICESCO in Sudan, including supporting women’s entrepreneurship, mitigating the negative impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, organizing a socio-medical caravan, and conducting training sessions on writing African languages in the Arabic script.

    Mr. Bakhit, in turn, provided an overview of the situation in Sudan, noting that the number of displaced people has reached 10 million, affecting the social and economic landscape of the country and requiring an intensification of international efforts geared towards resolving the currently bleak state of affairs. Furthermore, the Minister praised the extensive cooperation between ICESCO and Sudan in various fields and expressed a desire to further develop this cooperation and implement future programs aimed at advancing education and building youth and women capacities.

    Delegation of Social Affairs Ministers visits ICESCO’s Museum and Exhibition of the Prophet’s Seerah at ICESCO headquarters

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     A delegation of ministers and senior officials from the Ministries of Social Affairs, Solidarity and Family from a number of Member States of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) visited, on Wednesday, June 26, 2024, the International Exhibition and Museum of the Prophet's Seerah and Islamic Civilization, currently housed at the Organization's headquarters in Rabat.

    During his reception of the delegation, Dr. Abdelilah Benarafa, ICESCO Deputy Director-General, stated that the Exhibition and Museum, in its first stop outside Saudi Arabia, is the outcome of the strategic partnership among ICESCO, the Muslim World League and the Muhammadia League of Scholars. He added that since its opening to the public in November 2022, the Exhibition and Museum has attracted an unprecedented number of visitors from citizens and visitors of the Kingdom of Morocco.

    Dr. Benarafa took the delegation, visiting Rabat to participate in the First International Conference on Care Economy and Social Protection, on a tour of the Exhibition and Museum, explaining that it adopts the latest technological display methods, along with the traditional display forms in the section on the Moroccan connection to Prophet Muhammad.
    The members of the delegation commended this key initiative, praising ICESCO’s efforts to raise awareness of the life of the Prophet (pbuh).

    Following the visit, the Deputy Director General held a meeting with Ms. Bahar Muradova, Chairperson of the State Committee for Family, Women and Children Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan, where they discussed ways to promote cooperation between the Organization and Azerbaijan. Talks focused on humanitarian fields and capacity building for women and youth, as part of the celebration of Shusha as the 2024 Culture Capital in the Islamic World, and in furtherance of the special relations between ICESCO and Azerbaijan.

    For her part, Ms. Bahar Muradova commended ICESCO’s efforts in its areas of competence, stressing her country’s keenness to further develop cooperation relations with the Organization.