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    Category: News update

    News

    The Diplomatic Foundation of Morocco Awards ICESCO Director-General the International Prize for Public Diplomacy

    Posted on by abdelmohcine.benhlal

    The Diplomatic Foundation of the Kingdom of Morocco has awarded Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), the International Prize for Public Diplomacy in its fourth edition, in recognition of his tireless efforts to promote bilateral cooperation between ICESCO and Morocco across the Organization’s areas of expertise.

    Dr. AlMalik received the prestigious award from Mr. Abdelati Habek, President of the Foundation, and Mr. Salaheddine Mezouar, President of the Prize’s Council of Elders, during a grand ceremony organized by the Foundation on Friday, April 25, 2025, in the Moroccan capital, Rabat. The event brought together senior state officials, ministers, and ambassadors accredited to Rabat, alongside a distinguished group of Moroccan institutions, economists, parliamentarians, athletes, and media professionals, who were also honored on this occasion.

    In his remarks, the ICESCO Director-General expressed deep gratitude and appreciation to the Diplomatic Foundation, highlighting that ICESCO’s strategic partnership with Morocco was made possible thanks to the unparalleled support the Organization and its activities receive from Moroccan authorities at all levels — most notably the High Patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, may God assist Him, for many of its programs and initiatives within the Kingdom.

    The Diplomatic Foundation affirmed that honoring Dr. AlMalik constitutes a profound recognition of his valuable contributions and exceptional role in empowering youth and women, and promoting innovation and creativity across ICESCO’s 53 Member States. It also underscored his pivotal role in strengthening bilateral relations between Morocco and ICESCO, which, since he assumed leadership of the Organization, have seen the launch of an unprecedented number of joint activities and innovative initiatives.

    The international category of the Prize is awarded to an international personality who has contributed to building bridges of cooperation with Morocco. Among the distinguished previous recipients are His Excellency Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas; Mr. Miguel Ángel Moratinos, High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations; and Ms. Louise Mushikiwabo, Secretary-General of La Francophonie.

    This year’s national laureates include:

    • Dr. Mohamed Cheikh Biadillah (Parliamentary Diplomacy category),
    • Banque Populaire Group (Economy and Finance category),
    • Marsa Maroc Foundation (Industry and Services category),
    • Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (Research and Innovation category),
    • Medi1 TV (Media and Communication category),
    • Ms. Samira Haddouchi (Women and Leadership category),
    • Saadani Mae El Ainine (Human Rights category),
    • The Moroccan National Under-17 Football Team (Youth category),
    • And runner Soufiane El Bakkali (Sports category).

    Joint Efforts to Enhance Cooperation between ICESCO and Suriname in Education, Science, and Culture

    Posted on by abdelmohcine.benhlal

    Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), received Mr. Omar Sherif Abdoelrahman, Ambassador of the Republic of Suriname to the Kingdom of Morocco, on Wednesday, 16 April 2025, at ICESCO headquarters in Rabat. The meeting focused on strengthening cooperation in areas of mutual interest, empowering youth through modern technologies, and promoting knowledge-sharing in natural resource management across both countries.

    Dr. AlMalik welcomed Ambassador Abdoelrahman and provided an overview of ICESCO’s fields of work and the major transformations the Organization has undergone over the past five years. These include renaming the Organization to clarify its non-proselytizing mission, expanding its global outreach, and promoting its civilizational message in service of all peoples, religions, and cultures.

    Ambassador Abdoelrahman praised ICESCO’s impactful efforts across its areas of competence and its initiatives that benefit Member States and Muslim communities around the world. He reaffirmed Suriname’s strong commitment to enhancing joint cooperation and implementing shared programs and activities that reflect the country’s rich cultural diversity.

    Discussions also explored the possibility of implementing several ICESCO programs in Suriname, similar to those conducted in other Member States. These include training youth to launch and develop small-scale technology and innovation projects, organizing workshops on green education and sustainable development, and launching initiatives focused on the knowledge economy and digital transformation.

    Both sides emphasized the importance of youth capacity-building in modern technologies, peace and security, and the need to expand knowledge among engineering graduates in the field of natural resource management. They also highlighted the importance of enhancing journalists’ skills and raising awareness of media literacy.

    The meeting concluded with an agreement to collaborate on inscribing Suriname’s heritage sites on the Islamic World Heritage List, with ICESCO offering its expertise to train Surinamese officials involved in the heritage inscription process.

    ICESCO Actively Participates in Sousse International Film Festival for Children and Youth

    Posted on by abdelmohcine.benhlal

    The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) took part in the 14th edition of the Sousse International Film Festival for Children and Youth (FIFEJ), held from 8 to 12 April 2025 in Sousse, Tunisia.

    ICESCO was represented at the event by Zineb Bougrine, Expert at the Culture Sector, in Charge of Youth Projects and Cultural Industries, and Manuela Nicoletti, Specialist in Cultural Diplomacy and the Film Industry at the same Sector. The two ICESCO representatives took part as speakers in a seminar held at the Higher Institute of Fine Arts of Sousse (ISBAS) on the theme of youth cinema and cultural creativity, where they held discussions with visual arts students, young filmmakers, local journalists, and civil society representatives on the prospects for developing cultural diplomacy in the Organization’s Member States and the need to strengthen international cooperation in this context.

    As part of the Festival’s activities, Ms. Nicoletti also represented the Organization as a jury member in the Student Film Competition, which showcased 15 short films made by young filmmakers under the age of 30, from several countries.

    This participation reflects ICESCO’s keenness to work closely with partners to develop cultural industries in the Islamic world, and its efforts to strengthen its cooperation relations with FIFEJ Sousse and the Tunisian Ministry of Cultural Affairs, in view of building a regional network for creativity, artistic expression and cultural diplomacy targeting young people.

    Celebrating its 35th anniversary this year, the international festival showcased 60 films from 35 countries, reflecting the diversity of youth-oriented cinema in terms of themes and cultures, with 22 ICESCO Member States participating in the festival’s various activities.

    ICESCO Announces Three Winning Technology Projects at the End of Its Youth Training Program in Cameroon

    Posted on by abdelmohcine.benhlal

    The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) has concluded its program on training youth on how to start up and develop small businesses in the field of technology and innovation in the Republic of Cameroon. The program, implemented by ICESCO’s Science and Environment Sector in partnership with the business incubator Intellium, the Cameroonian National Commission for UNESCO and ICESCO, concluded with the announcement of the winning of three teams out of 15 and 62 participants at the national level.

    During the closing ceremony, held on April 2, 2025, in Douala, the competitors presented their technology project ideas to a jury headed by Mr. Isidore Bikoko, Chairman and Founder of Intellium Incubator, Dr. Muhammed Sharif, Advisor to ICESCO’s Science and Environment Sector, representatives of the Cameroonian National Commission for UNESCO and ICESCO, government officials, international investors, entrepreneurs, and experts.

    The jury announced the winning teams, with first place awarded to the MATT team, which presented a project to develop catering services through innovative logistics tools. Second place went to Agro Revolution, which focused on modernizing agricultural practices using smart production techniques, while third place went to Elikya Languages, a platform designed to revolutionize local language learning and preserve cultural heritage through technology-enabled methods.

    The Program, which is part of ICESCO’s strategy to support innovation and technology startups in its Member States and empower youth to lead sustainable change in their communities and beyond, offers 6–8 week specialized training courses and workshops.

    ICESCO Calls for Intensified International Cooperation at the 221st Session of the UNESCO Executive Board

    Posted on by abdelmohcine.benhlal

    The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) is taking part in the 221st session of the Executive Board of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), held from 7 to 17 April 2025 at UNESCO’s headquarters in Paris, France.

    Representing ICESCO at the session, Ms. Somia Djacta, Head of ICESCO’s Office and Permanent Delegate to UNESCO, underscored the urgent need to intensify international cooperation in addressing today’s pressing global challenges—particularly climate change, threats to cultural heritage, and unequal access to quality education. She emphasized ICESCO’s commitment to working closely with its Member States and the international community to build capacities, drive digital transformation, and safeguard cultural heritage.

    Ms. Djacta presented several of ICESCO’s flagship initiatives and programs that reflect the Organization’s holistic approach to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals. These include the establishment of the Islamic World Heritage Center to protect endangered heritage, the launch of Islamic World Artificial Intelligence Charter, the Hajj Routes to Mecca and Historical Mosques Project, the promotion of green education, and initiatives aimed at empowering women and youth in science and technology.

    In closing, Ms. Djacta called for stronger collaboration between ICESCO and UNESCO, envisioning a future in which their combined expertise and resources lead to meaningful outcomes for Member States. “Strengthening cooperation between the two sides will shape a world where science thrives participatively, where science serves development, where solidarity coexists with cultural diversity, and where dignity resonates in every human experience,” she affirmed.

    ICESCO and Austrian Delegation Explore Ways to Promote Culture of Peace and Coexistence

    Posted on by abdelmohcine.benhlal

    Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), received Ms. Regina Rusz, Austria’s Deputy Minister for European and International Affairs, and Dr. Anna Jankovic, Austrian Ambassador to the Kingdom of Morocco, along with the accompanying delegation.

    During the meeting, held on Tuesday, April 8, 2025 at ICESCO headquarters in Rabat, the two sides explored prospects for joint cooperation in promoting a culture of peace and consolidating the values of coexistence and interfaith dialogue.

    Dr. AlMalik reviewed the efforts made by the Organization, particularly through its Center for Civilizational Dialogue, to foster mutual understanding and peaceful coexistence. He also highlighted several programs and initiatives aimed at strengthening the values of respect for the privacy of the other, dialogue between nations, and appreciation of cultural diversity, namely the development of the concept of “civilizational diplomacy” concerned with the promotion of global dialogue between different peoples, civilizations and cultures.

    Dr. AlMalik also outlined ICESCO’s vision and strategic orientations, all rooted in the principles of dialogue, cooperation, and the expansion of communication to include the Organization’s Member States and the international community as a whole. He emphasized the Organization’s openness to granting observer status to new countries and its ongoing efforts to integrate the values of peace into education, science, and culture across its Member States. He further stressed his strong belief in the pivotal role of youth, noting that ICESCO has recruited many young talents and collaborated with others to bring their ideas and visions to life.

    For her part, Ms. Regina Rusz commended ICESCO’s diverse activities and initiatives, underscoring the importance of promoting cultural diversity and respect among faiths. She emphasized that peace is the key guarantor of social cohesion and harmony among civilizations.

    The meeting also touched upon future cooperation to organize joint activities, events and forums to raise global awareness on issues of religious diversity and respect for the other, and build a better world where dialogue and respect for religious differences prevail.

    ICESCO Director-General Receives Chairperson of State Committee on Work with Diaspora of the Republic of Azerbaijan

    Posted on by abdelmohcine.benhlal

    Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), received Mr. Fuad Muradov, Chairperson of the State Committee on Work with Diaspora of the Republic of Azerbaijan, along with his accompanying delegation, at ICESCO headquarters in Rabat during their visit to Morocco. The meeting focused on exploring potential areas of cooperation in fields of mutual interest.

    During the meeting, which took place on Wednesday, 12 March 2025, in the presence of Mr. Nazim Samadov, Ambassador of Azerbaijan to Morocco, Dr. AlMalik reiterated the strong ties between ICESCO and Azerbaijan, as demonstrated by a series of joint programs and successfully implemented projects.

    Moreover, Dr. AlMalik expressed his appreciation for the generous and ongoing support extended by His Excellency Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, and the Azerbaijani authorities toward ICESCO’s initiatives, programs, and projects.

    For his part, Mr. Fuad Muradov commended ICESCO for its pivotal and ongoing efforts in supporting its Member States across its areas of expertise. He outlined the objectives of the State Committee on Work with Diaspora of the Republic of Azerbaijan, emphasizing its commitment to strengthening the Azerbaijani community’s sense of belonging and national identity through various programs and activities. He also underscored the vital role of the Azerbaijani diaspora in promoting and disseminating Azerbaijani culture in their countries of residence.

    The meeting discussed ICESCO’s engagement of its Member States in these committees to benefit the youth of the Islamic world through activities that raise awareness of the importance of preserving their national cultures.

    Following the meeting, Mr. Muradov and his accompanying delegation visited the International Exhibition and Museum of the Prophet’s Biography and Islamic Civilization, currently housed at ICESCO headquarters.

    ICESCO proceeds with implementation of Supporting Displaced Girls’ Education Project in Burkina Faso

    Posted on by abdelmohcine.benhlal

    In furtherance of its efforts to promote girls’ education and empowerment, the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) launched the Project, “Educational and Social Support for Displaced and Boarding School Girls” in the Republic of Burkina Faso, in cooperation with the Burkinabe National Commission for UNESCO and with funding from the Heydar Aliyev Foundation of the Republic of Azerbaijan
    The project aims to provide basic educational resources, counseling and life skills training for girls experiencing displacement and economic hardship in Burkina Faso, in a bid to advance their education and develop the education system in Burkina Faso.

    The project was officially launched on Tuesday, February 18, 2025 in the Burkinabe capital Ouagadougou, in the presence of an ICESCO delegation consisting of Dr. Haddy Jatou Sey, Head of the Education Sector, Mr. Anar Karimov, Head of the Partnerships and International Cooperation Sector, and Faizah Alaoui, Education Sector Expert in charge of the Project, in addition to high-level Burkinabe officials, education workers, and civil society representatives.

    The ceremony featured an overview on the Project and its objectives, namely, improving educational outcomes, providing safe learning space, and equipping girls with leadership and digital skills. It also featured a presentation of the Project’s aspects of support such as building and renovating sanitation facilities in schools, and providing tutoring programs and counseling sessions to empower young girls to overcome challenges and build a brighter future for themselves.


    In her address at the opening ceremony, Dr. Haddy Jatou Sey, reiterated ICESCO’s firm commitment to promoting inclusive education and praised the generous support of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, stating that the initiative will not only improve academic performance, but will also equip young girls with the skills and confidence to become future leaders.

    For his part, Mr. Anar Karimov highlighted the importance of education as a driver of social transformation and sustainable development, explaining that the project seeks to remove barriers to girls’ education by providing safe and inclusive learning environments in the cities of Kaya, Ouahigouya, Gaoua and Banfora. He emphasized the need to ensure the success and sustainability of the Project within the educational policies in Burkina Faso, stressing that an educated girl is a catalyst for change in her community and beyond.

    The official opening ceremony was followed by a meeting between the ICESCO delegation and Dr. Zakaria Soré, Secretary General of the Burkina Faso Presidential Office, to discuss the prospects of bilateral cooperation. The two parties expressed their keenness to continue strengthening the strategic partnership in the fields of girls’ education, teacher training, technical and vocational training, and other areas of common interest.

    ICESCO: Social justice is key to sustainable and inclusive development

    Posted on by MOHAMED.AQEIL

    Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), underlined that social justice is the cornerstone of societal stability and development, stressing the need for the concerted efforts of governments, parliaments, and economic and social institutions to achieve it.

    Dr. AlMalik made this statement on Monday, February 17, 2025, at the opening session of the Ninth International Parliamentary Forum on Social Justice, organized by the Moroccan Parliament under the theme, “The Generalization of Social Protection in Morocco: A Vision of Development in Line with International Standards.”

    Dr. AlMalik explained that the concept of justice transcends the mere distribution of wealth to encompass providing equal opportunities, guaranteeing the basic rights of citizens, and striking a balance between economic development and social protection. In this connection, the Director-General highlighted ICESCO’s role in supporting Member States’ efforts to consolidate social justice through policies that foster wage equality, expand health coverage, and promote innovation in development.

    The Director-General also discussed the concept of social justice throughout history, recalling the values of Islamic teachings in balancing the various segments of society. He also commended the pioneering initiatives launched by His Majesty King Mohammed VI in the field of social protection, which have made Morocco a role model in this field.

    ICESCO Holds Third Workshop on “Applications of Artificial Intelligence in Cultural and Creative Industries”

    Posted on by MOHAMED.AQEIL

    As part of its Culture for Rethinking the World initiative, the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) held its third workshop on “Applications of Artificial Intelligence in Cultural and Creative Industries” on Monday, February 3, 2025. The session, organized for experts from ICESCO Member States and National Commissions, explored the latest advancements in AI and its potential to support cultural and creative industries.

    During the workshop, held via videoconference, Dr. Amin Hammami, an external ICESCO expert in digital creativity and digital culture, delivered a presentation on the role of AI in cultural industries. Dr. Hammami emphasized ICESCO’s contribution to cultural transformation and the promotion of cultural and creative industries through the integration of emerging technologies.

    Moderating the session, Ms. Zineb Bougrine, expert in creative intelligence in ICESCO’s Culture Sector, addressed the rapid progress of technology giants, especially in the fields of artificial intelligence. The participants highlighted the remarkable development in augmented and virtual reality and their applications in culture, including virtual museums and interactive exhibitions.

    Moreover, the workshop explored the ethical and technical challenges associated with AI technologies and their applications in the cultural and creative industries. Discussions covered generative tools for organizing virtual events and their current limitations.

    The workshop concluded with an emphasis on ICESCO’s commitment to advancing the transformation of creative industries, particularly as artificial intelligence technology reshapes cultural practices.