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    Category: News

    ICESCO and World Economic Forum Sign Agreement to Promote Foresight in Islamic World

    Posted on by Soukaina Azzabi

    The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) signed a cooperation agreement with the World Economic Forum to enhance partnership in the areas of strategic foresight, innovation, and knowledge dissemination among the Organization’s Member States on Friday 13 June 2025. The Agreement was signed during the World Economic Forum’s Global Foresight Network Retreat, held in Geneva, Switzerland.

    The cooperation agreement, signed on behalf of ICESCO by Dr. Kais Hammami, Director of the Center of Strategic Foresight and Artificial Intelligence, and on behalf of the World Economic Forum by Dr. Stephan Mergenthaler, Chief Technology Officer and Managing Director, aims to establish mechanisms for future-oriented decision-making through the launch of a joint initiative dubbed “Excellence in Intelligence and Foresight for the Islamic World.” This initiative will work to deepen regional dialogue and raise the level of participation of ICESCO Member States in global foresight discussions.

    Under the agreement, ICESCO will assume a central regional role in foresight dialogue by integrating into the Strategic Intelligence Platform of the World Economic Forum and by providing tailored scientific content in Arabic. This contribution is expected to elevate the standing of the Islamic world within the global foresight landscape.

    It is worth noting that the World Economic Forum’s Global Foresight Network Retreat, on the sidelines of which the agreement was signed, brought together an elite group of global thought leaders in foresight.
    Participants discussed several key issues, focusing on the integration of artificial intelligence into various sectors, the future of foresight practices, and how to ensure their equitable dissemination across regions and generations.

    ICESCO Participates in Kazakhstan International Conference of Architects to Promote Protection of Islamic Heritage

    Posted on by MOHAMED.AQEIL

    The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) took part in the second International Conference of Architects, held in Turkistan, Republic of Kazakhstan, from 10 to 11 June 2025. The Organization was represented by Dr. Osama El Nahas, Heritage Expert at ICESCO’s Culture Sector.

    In his address, Dr. El Nahas reaffirmed ICESCO’s commitment to advancing the protection of Islamic heritage, with a focus on restoring heritage sites and artifacts and combating the illicit trafficking of cultural property.

    Additionally, Dr. El Nahas reviewed the Organization’s projects in the preservation of underwater cultural heritage, highlighting the completion of the first volume of the Guide to Underwater Heritage in the Islamic World, as well as the publication of Guide on Crisis and Disaster Management at Heritage Sites and Museums. Following the conference, Dr. El Nahas participated in the opening of an exhibition marking the 950th anniversary of the publication of “Divânu Lugâti’t-Türk” by Mahmud al-Kashgari.

    AlMalik in recorded speech at workshop in Istanbul:“ICESCO plans to launch integrated project to revive heritage of Aleppo”

    Posted on by Soukaina Azzabi

    The Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), Dr. Salim AlMalik, announced the Organization’s intention to organize an international conference to launch an integrated project to revive the tangible and intangible heritage of Aleppo, with the revival of the Awqaf Library at the heart of this project, through its restoration, digitization and reactivation of its scientific role.

    This was stated in a recorded speech by Dr. AlMalik streamed during a workshop titled “Reviving Aleppo Manuscripts”, organized in Istanbul on June 12 and 13, 2025, by the House of Manuscripts at the Sultan Ahmed Waqf in Istanbul with the participation of 16 government institutions, international organizations, and a host of experts and heritage enthusiasts.

    In his speech, Dr. AlMalik affirmed the Organization’s commitment to reviving Aleppo’s heritage by reviving the ancient scientific heritage of Aleppo, especially through its Alwaqf Library, which contained masterpieces of science and precious manuscripts in exegesis (tafsir), hadith, jurisprudence, medicine, and astronomy, qualifying the workshop as “a whisper from the past and a message for the future”. He also stated that “reviving the manuscript is itself a revival of thought, it is giving a new life to the letter, and rewriting the biography of a nation that made knowledge a legacy, paper a platform, and pen a pathway to light.”

    Dr. AlMalik reviewed the most prominent ICESCO initiatives in this field, including the establishment of the Center of Calligraphy and Manuscripts in the Islamic World, and the launch of a pioneering heritage project that has so far enabled the registration of more than 750 heritage sites in a step aimed at highlighting the cultural depth of the Islamic world and the global recognition of its richness, noting that this workshop is in line with the Organization’s efforts to “consolidate the presence of heritage in the nation’s consciousness and renew its bonds with memory.”
    Dr. AlMalik concluded his speech by emphasizing that every effort made in this way is a step on the road back to the self, and every manuscript revived is a new sunshine in the sky of the Islamic world, considering this workshop “the beginning of a blessed action that will raise the status of Aleppo, revive its letters, and restore its high scientific glory.”

    This hands-on workshop is part of an integrated project to resurrect the Alwaqf Library in Aleppo, which dates back to the seventh century AH, as part of a comprehensive initiative to restore and rehabilitate damaged endowment schools in Syria and use them culturally to serve the Library. The current efforts are a continuation of the project launched in 2006 to reopen the library on the occasion of the declaration of Aleppo Culture Capital in the Islamic world by ICESCO, before the closure of the Library over the last fourteen years.

    ICESCO Participates in UNESCO’s GEMR Advisory Board Meeting

    Posted on by Soukaina Azzabi

    The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) took part in the 10th Meeting of the Advisory Board for the Global Education Monitoring Report (GEMR), held on 10-11 June 2025, at UNESCO headquarters in Paris. ICESCO was represented by Faizah Alaoui, Education Sector expert, who joined other members to exchange insights and offer strategic guidance on global education issues.

    The meeting addressed ways to improve education quality and develop effective education policies, with a focus on preparing young leaders and strengthening leadership skills in schools. Working sessions also reviewed outlines of upcoming editions of the report, future orientations, and strategies to enhance the report’s global influence in shaping education policy and decision-making.

    The GEMR’s Advisory Board brings together representatives from UN agencies, bilateral donors, NGOs, civil society networks, and education experts from across the Global South.

    Review of final preparations for International Scientific Conference on Imam al-Bukhari in Uzbekistan

    Posted on by mohamed.elmajdouby

    Dr. Salim AlMalik, Director General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), held a coordination meeting via videoconference with Dr. Firdavs Abdukhalikov , Director of the Islamic Civilization Center in Tashkent, Republic of Uzbekistan, on Wednesday, June 11, 2025. The two parties reviewed the final preparations for the organization of the International Academic Conference: “Jami’ al-Musnad as-Sahih by Imam Bukhari: A Book of an Ummah – Scientific Embodiment of a Civilization of Chain of Narration and Documentation”, which will be held late August in Tashkent, under the high patronage of H.E. Shavkat Mirziyoyev, President of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

    The two sides agreed on the organizational arrangements for the Conference, including the reception of guests and participants, amid expectations of the participation of a host of scholars, researchers and representatives of religious institutions from 45 countries. It was also agreed to give a prize for the best three research papers on Imam al-Bukhari and his book Al-Sahih which will be presented during the Conference. The winning papers will later be collected in a documented scientific publication, highlighting the knowledge and civilizational values associated with the heritage of Imam al-Bukhari.

    Dr. Firdavs Abdukhalikov announced that the Islamic Civilization Center in Tashkent will be officially inaugurated on the National Independence Day of the Republic of Uzbekistan, coinciding with the International Academic Conference on Imam al-Bukhari. The inauguration ceremony will be attended by H.E. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Dr. Salim AlMalik, and a number of prominent figures from the Islamic world. Dr. Abdukhalikov also revealed that ICESCO will have a permanent office within the Center, as a platform for continuous cultural and scientific cooperation between the two sides in the field of manuscripts and documentation.

    During the meeting, Dr. AlMalik stressed that the Conference will be a valuable opportunity to highlight the scientific and civilizational role of Imam al-Bukhari, and to reflect the importance of chain of narration and documentation in the Islamic heritage stressing the importance of cooperation with Uzbekistan in strengthening common cognitive, cultural and civilizational values.
    For his part, Dr. Abdukhalikov appreciated the partnership with ICESCO, emphasizing that the organization of this international Conference, along with the upcoming opening of the Center of Islamic Civilization, will be a milestone in the process of promoting Islamic cultural identity at the regional and international levels.
    Dr. Abdelilah Benarfa, ICESCO Deputy Director General, and Dr. Sally Mabrouk, Director of the Director General’s Office and Supervisor of the Strategy and Institutional Excellence Sector, participated in the meeting from ICESCO’s side.

    Three Winning Technological Projects at Close of ICESCO Youth Training Program in Sierra Leone

    Posted on by ABDERRAHMANE OUASSIF

    The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) concluded its program on training youth on setting up and developing small projects in the fields of technology and innovation in the Republic of Sierra Leone. The close of the training program, implemented by ICESCO’s Science and Environment Sector, in partnership with the Eastern Technical University of Sierra Leone, was marked by the announcement of three winning projects, out of the 49 participating teams at the national level.

    During the two-day event, contestants presented their projects before a jury. During his remarks at the opening session, Dr. Muhammad Sharif, Advisor at the Sector of Science and Environment, stressed the importance of integrating the youth of the Islamic world in the fields of entrepreneurship, modern technology and innovation to contribute to achieving sustainable development in their communities.

    Winning first place, the Mamawa Muyengay Agric Business team presented their project to integrate and improve the living conditions of youth, women and the elderly in rural areas through building their capacities in the fields of cassava farming. The second place went to Mujehva Plastic and Sand Paving Enterprise, for their projects to recycle plastic to make sustainable pavements, while the third place went to MS Agro Rice Farming, a project dedicated to rice farming in inland valleys to promote best practices in the field of agriculture.

    ICESCO Holds Training Workshop on Sound Art and Critical Thinking in the Age of Artificial Intelligence

    Posted on by MOHAMED.AQEIL

    The Culture Sector of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) organized the fourth online training workshop in the “ICESCO Immersive Art” (IIA) series, themed “Listening, Creating, Thinking”. The event explored the intersection of art with scientific and technological research through interdisciplinary approaches that combine creativity and knowledge.

    The opening session, chaired by Dr. Mohamed Zinelabidine, Head of ICESCO Culture Sector, saw the participation of renowned French Teacher-researcher and composer Mr. Frank Pecquet, who gave a presentation on the philosophical and artistic dimensions of musical sound, and its role in fostering creativity and analyzing sensory environments. His presentation was grounded in creative research methodologies, psychoacoustics, the philosophy of listening, and auditory anthropology.

    The workshop was then facilitated by Ms. Zineb Bougrine, expert at the Culture Sector, and Dr. Amine El Hamami, ICESCO’s external international expert in digital creativity and culture. It included remote participation by specialized researchers, young professionals, and experts from ICESCO national commissions in Member States.

    The discussions revolved around two main themes: the first addressed sound as a medium for artistic and cognitive creativity, while the second focused on the “school of critical perception” as a space for learning and educational transformation.

    It also explored the impact of artificial intelligence on artistic creativity and the authenticity of expression in the digital era. Participants emphasized the importance of rethinking traditional aesthetic concepts by integrating the arts with technology and the humanities, in order to develop more inclusive and adaptable cultural policies that meet the needs of contemporary societies, especially in the fields of education and artistic training.

    This workshop aligns with ICESCO’s vision to reposition culture as a driving force for comprehensive development and a means of strengthening social cohesion, through the adoption of innovative and open cultural models that respond to the aspirations of future generations amid rapid digital transformations.

    ICESCO Receives Student Delegation from Duke University in the United States

    Posted on by abdelmohcine.benhlal

    The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) received a student delegation from Duke University—one of the most prestigious universities in the United States—on Tuesday, 3 June 2025, as part of its efforts to promote cultural dialogue and academic exchange with leading international academic institutions.

    Dr. Abdelilah Benarafa, ICESCO Deputy Director-General, welcomed the delegation and delivered an address highlighting the Organization’s mission, strategic objectives, and role in supporting its Member States and strengthening international cooperation.

    For his part, Mr. Mohammed Hedi Shili, Head of Legal Affairs and International Standards at ICESCO, emphasized Duke University’s global reputation and its excellence in education and scientific research.

    Professor Mbaye Bashir Lo, faculty member at Duke University and Director of the “Duke in the Arab World” Academic Program, gave an overview of the university and its history, noting that it currently ranks sixth among top U.S. universities in terms of academic excellence and research output.

    Moreover, Dr. Said El Hassan, Director of Studies and Research at the Khalid El Hassan Foundation in the Kingdom of Morocco, emphasized that the visit was organized as part of a tailored academic program for the visiting students. He highlighted the academic cooperation between the Foundation and Duke University, and expressed his appreciation to ICESCO for its warm welcome.

    ICESCO experts also delivered presentations on the Organization’s key programs and initiatives in education, science, and culture, as well as its ongoing efforts to empower youth and promote civilizational dialogue.

    The visit concluded with a tour of ICESCO’s Mishkat Hall, where Dr. Adel Bouraoui, Advisor to the ICESCO Director-General, presented an overview of the Mishkat training programs, which focus on enhancing Arabic language proficiency among non-Arabic speakers.

    ICESCO Honors Graduates of Its Training Program on Civilizational Diplomacy and the Role of Artificial Intelligence in Conflict Resolution

    Posted on by abdelmohcine.benhlal

    As part of the cooperation between the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), represented by its Center for Civilizational Dialogue, and the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations Chair at the Euro-Mediterranean University of Fez (UEMF), ICESCO headquarters in Rabat hosted, on Monday, 2 June 2025, a graduation ceremony for trainees who successfully completed a specialized training program on civilizational diplomacy and its role in conflict resolution using artificial intelligence tools and techniques.

    The ceremony was attended by Dr. Abdelilah Benarafa, ICESCO Deputy Director-General; Dr. Abdelhak Azzouzi, President of the UN Alliance of Civilizations Chair; Ambassador Khalid Fathalrahman, Head of ICESCO’s Center for Civilizational Dialogue; along with a number of ICESCO heads and program trainees.

    The event opened with remarks by Ambassador Fathalrahman, who highlighted the strength of ICESCO’s ties with international institutions and organizations, and the importance of such partnerships in developing the skills of youth and those involved in dialogue and civilizational diplomacy.

    In his remarks, Dr. Benarafa underscored ICESCO’s commitment to developing advanced tools that serve the Islamic world in addressing growing challenges, particularly in the fields of civilizational dialogue and intercultural communication.

    For his part, Dr. Azzouzi emphasized the importance of promoting religious and cultural diversity among postgraduate students specializing in law and conflict resolution, noting the need to integrate this dimension into academic curricula.

    In his remarks, Dr. Abdelfettah Belamchi, Director of the Moroccan Center for Development and Parallel Diplomacy (CMDPDC) in Rabat, commended ICESCO’s efforts to institutionalize the concept of civilizational diplomacy and praised the publication of its new book titled Civilizational Diplomacy: A New Concept.

    Furthermore, Mr. Mohammed Hedi Shili, Head of Legal Affairs and International Standards at ICESCO, stressed the importance of such training programs in establishing a clear legal methodology for trainees, and called for the adoption of an ethical code on artificial intelligence to ensure its responsible use, warning against risks associated with bias in AI applications.

    Dr. Ahmed Said Ould Bah, Advisor to the ICESCO Director-General, affirmed the added value of these training programs, which yield direct benefits for participants and contribute to fostering a culture of dialogue and enhancing effective communication.

    The ceremony concluded with remarks by Dr. Mohammed Zinelabidine, Head of the Culture Sector at ICESCO, who shed light on the evolution of civilizational dialogue and its close connection to civilizational diplomacy, affirming that constructive intercultural dialogue is key to success and positive global impact.

    ICESCO Mourns the Passing of Abdelhak El Mrini, Historian of the Kingdom of Morocco

    Posted on by abdelmohcine.benhlal

    The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) has learned with great sadness of the passing of Dr. Abdelhak El Mrini, Historian of the Kingdom of Morocco and former Royal Palace Spokesperson, on Monday evening, 2 June 2025, at the age of 91.

    On this sorrowful occasion, ICESCO’s Director-General, leadership, and staff extend their deepest condolences to His Majesty King Mohammed VI, may Allah assist him, to the family of the deceased, and to the Moroccan people. They beseech Allah Almighty to shower him with mercy and grant him a place in Paradise.

    Renowned for his distinguished scholarly and intellectual contributions, Dr. El Mrini was one of the prominent figures in Moroccan thought, history, and literature. He held several high-ranking positions, most notably Director of Royal Palaces, Honors, and Decorations.

    Born in 1934 in Rabat, Dr. El Mrini distinguished himself early on in the fields of education and research. He earned several advanced degrees in Morocco and France, including a PhD in Literature. His pioneering works include The Moroccan Army Throughout History, Jihad Poetry in Moroccan Literature, and Introduction to the History of Modern Morocco.

    Dr. El Mrini maintained a special relationship with ICESCO, participating in several of its cultural and intellectual events. He was a distinguished guest in ICESCO’s Ramadan series Ramadan Whiffs and Intellectual Sparks in 1443 AH / 2022 AD, where he delivered a lecture titled Highlights about Tea in Morocco. He was also a regular attendee at the ICESCO Cultural Forum, alongside leading intellectuals, underscoring his esteemed status in the Moroccan and Islamic cultural spheres.

    May Allah have mercy on the departed. To Allah we belong, and to Him we shall return.