Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), met with Mr. Azamsho Sharifi, Assistant to the President of the Republic of Tajikistan for International Affairs and his delegation, on the sidelines of the 45th session of the Executive Council of ICESCO, held in the Republic of Tunisia under the patronage of His Excellency President Kaïs Saïed.
During the meeting, which took place on Wednesday, 26 February 2025, in Tunis, and was attended by Mr. Akram Karimi, Ambassador of Tajikistan to Saudi Arabia, Dr. AlMalik expressed gratitude to the Tajik delegation for their active participation in the Executive Council’s proceedings.
Dr. AlMalik reaffirmed ICESCO’s commitment to valuing and showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Islamic world, particularly in the Central Asian region. He also emphasized the Organization’s readiness to engage Tajik experts in its initiatives to further enrich its work.
Additionally, Dr. AlMalik outlined ICESCO’s efforts in the environmental sector, highlighting its innovative programs aimed at combating climate change, enhancing food security, and actively participating in global climate-related forums and summits. Mr. Sharifi, in turn, extended an invitation to Dr. AlMalik to attend the International Conference on Glaciers’ Preservation, scheduled for May 2025 in Dushanbe. Dr. AlMalik welcomed the invitation and reiterated ICESCO’s commitment to strengthening collaboration between the two sides.
Mr. Sharifi also acknowledged ICESCO’s esteemed role in Tajikistan and emphasized his country’s eagerness to expand cooperation with the Organization in environmental initiatives, climate change mitigation, and civilizational dialogue. The meeting was also attended by Mr. Anar Karimov, Head of the Partnerships and International Cooperation Sector, and Ambassador Khaled Fatah Al-Rahman, Head of the Center for Civilizational Dialogue.
The 45th session of the Executive Council of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) concluded on Wednesday in Tunis under the patronage of His Excellency President Kaïs Saïed, represented by the Ministry of Education. The Council approved various decisions and projects submitted by ICESCO’s General Directorate.
The session commenced with presentations by ICESCO’s specialized sectors, departments, and centers, highlighting key programs and projects implemented over the past year. Among these were the executive report on ICESCO’s 2024 activities and reports on initiatives such as the Hiveflow platform, the ICESCO Year of Youth, the Young Professionals Program, “Leap to Learning 500,” and “Esnad: Sudan as a Model.” A short film was also screened, showcasing nine international excellence awards recently received by ICESCO for management, governance, and innovation.
During working sessions, specialized sectors introduced new projects and initiatives for approval, detailing ICESCO’s latest advancements, including the establishment of the Media and Communication Sector. Mr. Osama Heikal, Head of the new sector, outlined its strategic plan for 2025-2030, emphasizing ICESCO’s vision of achieving international leadership in media and communication. The plan focuses on adapting to contemporary communication developments, countering media misinformation, addressing identity crises among youth, providing media training, expanding ICESCO’s media relations, and organizing specialized programs and forums.
Additionally, the Council approved the creation of new centers, including the Calligraphy and Manuscripts Center, the Training Center, and the Poetry and Literature Center. Dr. Rawda Al-Haj, an expert in the Culture Sector, highlighted the Poetry and Literature Center’s role in enriching the cultural landscape of the Islamic world and positioning ICESCO as a global hub for poetry and literature. Dr. Edham Hanash, also from the Culture Sector, explained that the Calligraphy and Manuscripts Center will focus on preserving and promoting traditional and modern calligraphy while supporting calligraphers and artisan artists.
Meanwhile, Dr. Mohamed Hedi Shili, Director of the Legal Affairs and International Standards Department, detailed how the Training Center will offer innovative programs to equip human resources with essential skills for emerging challenges.
The Council also approved the observer membership requests of the Federal Republic of Brazil and the International Institute for the Unification of Private Law (UNIDROIT). Amendments were made to several articles in the Personnel Regulations and the Internal Regulations of the Compensation Fund, along with the endorsement of the Riyadh AI Charter for the Islamic World.
Discussions also addressed the educational, scientific, and cultural conditions in Palestine, as well as draft resolutions and action plans submitted by ICESCO’s General Directorate. The Council approved Saudi Arabia’s request to host ICESCO’s 46th Executive Council and 15th General Conference, formalizing an agreement to facilitate logistical and organizational preparations. The agreement includes provisions for periodic meetings to monitor progress and ensure comprehensive services for participants, ensuring the success of the upcoming Council session in the Kingdom.
Concluding the session, ICESCO’s Director-General, Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, expressed gratitude to Council members and guests for their constructive contributions and for adopting all submitted documents. He emphasized that these recommendations would propel ICESCO forward in achieving its ambitious goals and strengthening its role in fostering cooperation and development across the Islamic world. A cable of thanks was sent to President Kaïs Saïed for hosting and supporting the Council’s sessions, endorsing key initiatives, and reaffirming Tunisia’s strong commitment to ICESCO’s mission in advancing education, science, and culture.
En marge des travaux de la 45ᵉ session du Conseil exécutif de l’Organisation du Monde Islamique pour l’Éducation, les Sciences et la Culture (ICESCO), tenue en Tunisie sous le haut patronage du Président Kaïs Saïed, Dr Salim M. AlMalik, Directeur général de l’ICESCO, s’est entretenu avec M. Azamsho Sharifi, Assistant du Président de la République du Tadjikistan chargé des affaires étrangères, ainsi qu’avec la délégation qui l’accompagne.
Lors de cette réunion, tenue mercredi 26 février 2025 à Tunis, en présence de M. Akram Karimi, Ambassadeur du Tadjikistan auprès du Royaume d’Arabie Saoudite, Dr. AlMalik a salué la participation distinguée de la délégation tadjike aux séances de travail du Conseil exécutif. Il a également réaffirmé l’engagement de l’ICESCO à promouvoir le patrimoine du monde islamique et à mettre en lumière l’héritage civilisationnel de ses États membres en Asie centrale. Par ailleurs, il a souligné la volonté de l’Organisation d’accueillir des compétences tadjikes dans ses secteurs et départements afin de leur offrir l’opportunité de contribuer à ses missions.
En outre, le Directeur général de l’ICESCO a mis en avant les efforts déployés par l’Organisation en matière de protection de l’environnement, notamment à travers la mise en œuvre de plusieurs programmes et initiatives innovants visant à lutter contre les changements climatiques dans les États membres et à renforcer la sécurité alimentaire. Il a également rappelé la participation active de l’ICESCO aux événements et sommets internationaux consacrés aux enjeux climatiques.
De son côté, M. Sharifi a invité Dr AlMalik à prendre part aux travaux de la Conférence internationale de haut niveau sur la protection des glaciers, prévue en mai 2025 à Douchanbé. Ce dernier s’est félicité de cette invitation et a réaffirmé la volonté de l’ICESCO de renforcer la coopération bilatérale dans les mois à venir.
Pour sa part, l’Assistant du Président de la République du Tadjikistan a salué le rôle prépondérant de l’ICESCO dans son pays et exprimé son souhait de renforcer la coopération avec l’Organisation, notamment dans les domaines de l’environnement, de la lutte contre les changements climatiques et du dialogue civilisationnel.
Ont également pris part à cette réunion M. Anar Karimov, Chef du Secteur des Partenariats et de la Coopération internationale, ainsi que l’ambassadeur Khalid Fathalrahman, Directeur du Centre du Dialogue civilisationnel.
On the sidelines of the 45th session of its Executive Council, held in Tunis, and as part of its efforts to promote sustainable development, the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) signed two memorandums of understanding on Wednesday, 26 February 2025, with the Arab Society for Economic Research and the Tunisian National Center for Education Technologies, respectively.
The MoUs aim to promote innovative financing and digital transformation in education. The first MoU was signed by Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, ICESCO Director-General, and Dr. Ashraf El-Araby, Secretary General of the Arab Society for Economic Research. It aims to promote research on innovative financing mechanisms to support development projects, research and advisory cooperation, organize annual meetings, prepare sustainable action plans, and create platforms for knowledge exchange to support Member States in achieving knowledge-based economic development.
The second memorandum was signed by Mr. Anar Karimov, Head of ICESCO’s Partnerships and International Cooperation Sector, and Mr. Skander Ghenia, Director General of the Tunisian National Center for Education Technologies. It focuses on enhancing the use of artificial intelligence and modern technologies in education, and provides for conducting research studies on the impact of technology in education, organizing workshops and training programs, and launching pilot projects in Tunisian educational institutions to assess the impact of digital transformation on the quality of education.
The two memorandums are part of ICESCO’s efforts to devise innovative financing mechanisms, promote digital transformation in education, and cooperate with regional and international institutions to support innovation and invest in the future of the next generations.
On Wednesday, February 26, 2025, the Republic of Tunisia, represented by its Ministry of Education, hosted the 45th session of the Executive Council of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ICESCO). Held under the patronage of His Excellency President Kaïs Saïed, the Executive Council brought together representatives of ICESCO Member States, ministers, ambassadors, officials, and delegates from regional and international organizations.
Chaired by Dr. Salim Al Habsi, Head of ICESCO’s General Secretariat of National Commissions and Conferences, the 45th session opened with remarks from Tunisia’s Minister of Education, Noureddine Nouri, in which he reiterated his appreciation to ICESCO for holding its Executive Council in Tunisia, reflecting the Organization’s vital role in strengthening ties among its Member States. He also affirmed Tunisia’s full commitment to supporting ICESCO’s efforts in planning and implementing various educational, scientific, and cultural initiatives and proposals.
Following that, Dr. Mohamed Ayman Ashour, Egypt’s Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research and President of ICESCO’s 14th General Conference, delivered an address emphasizing the need for unity among the leaders and peoples of the Islamic world in light of the significant challenges facing the region. He stated, “Our unity is not only one of faith and culture but also of history and destiny.” Dr. Ashour stressed ICESCO’s full recognition of the importance of coordinating efforts in its fields of action to cultivate generations of young innovators and scientists who possess a deep understanding of the present and the key to success in shaping the future.
For his part, Dr. Dawas Tayseer Rashid Dawas, Chairman of the ICESCO Executive Council and Secretary-General of the Palestinian National Commission for Education, Culture, and Science, emphasized that the Executive Council serves as a platform where ideas translate into action and planning leads to implementation, all in pursuit of comprehensive development. He described it as a cornerstone for shaping ICESCO’s policies and setting its priorities, highlighting the need for teamwork, constructive collaboration, and innovative proposals that enhance the Organization’s efficiency and advance its noble mission.
Next, Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, ICESCO Director-General, gave an address expressing gratitude to the Republic of Tunisia—its leadership, people, and government—for the honorable hosting of the Executive Council proceedings. Dr. AlMalik outlined three key objectives of the session, stating: “We convene, first, to reaffirm our commitment to partnership, upholding its values through a united vision and coordinated actions. Second, to engage in a constructive review of our achievements, which requires keen insights and thoughtful critique. Third, to adopt a confident, forward-looking approach, exploring future opportunities and defining their scope.” Dr. AlMalik further emphasized that ICESCO has earnestly represented the visions of its Member States, evolving into a globally recognized organization with impactful contributions. He highlighted the Organization’s efforts in establishing institutional mechanisms for future foresight, preparing young generations, and developing innovative civilizational concepts that offer effective solutions.
The opening session also featured remarks from distinguished guests. Dr. Saud Hilal Al-Harbi, former Director-General of ALECSO and former Minister of the Ministries of Education and Higher Education in Kuwait, highlighted the determination and leadership demonstrated by Dr. AlMalik and ICESCO’s staff. He praised the Organization’s commitment to change, its infusion of new talent, and its many achievements.
In a recorded remark, Dr. Moustafa Osman Ismaïl, former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Sudan, commended the notable progress ICESCO has made. He highlighted the Organization’s openness, its recruitment of youth and women, and its work environment rooted in creativity and innovation—factors that have positioned it alongside leading international organizations.
Likewise, in his recorded remark, Dr. Khaled El-Enany, former Minister of Tourism and Antiquities of Egypt and candidate for the UNESCO Director-General position, also praised ICESCO’s efforts and achievements that have impacted its Member States in several fields, stressing that this session of the Executive Council is an opportunity to develop mechanisms for joint action.
The opening session featured a video highlighting the international certificates of excellence recently awarded to ICESCO in management, governance, and innovation. This was followed by the signing of cooperation agreements between ICESCO, the Arab Society for Economic Research (ASFER), and the National Center for Technologies in Education (CNTE) in Tunisia, aimed at strengthening collaboration in innovative financing, artificial intelligence, and its applications in education.
The Executive Council sessions then commenced with a review of the Organization’s performance reports over the past year and its future plans. The session also approved the applications of the Federative Republic of Brazil and the International Institute for the Unification of Private Law (UNIDROIT) to join ICESCO as Observer Members.
His Excellency President Kaïs Saied of the Republic of Tunisia received His Excellency Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), along with his accompanying delegation from the Organization’s Executive Council, on Tuesday, 25 February 2025, at the Carthage Palace in Tunis, Tunisia.
President Saied reaffirmed Tunisia’s pleasure in hosting the 45th session of the ICESCO Executive Council and presiding over its proceedings on 25–26 February.
The Tunisian President emphasized ICESCO’s crucial role in developing educational curricula, advancing scientific knowledge, and promoting cultural content in our societies. His Excellency the President further underscored the importance of empowering communities through solid educational and cultural foundations to enable them to contribute effectively to human civilization and knowledge. He also highlighted the need to engage consciously with the rapid and profound transformations shaping the world, which present significant challenges that require a collective stance in accordance with a scientific approach that respects cultural specificities and Islamic values.
In this context, President Saied stressed the significance of preserving the rich cultural and civilizational heritage of the Arab and Islamic world and safeguarding its identity. He called for supporting ICESCO’s initiatives in recovering stolen artifacts, including precious manuscripts and rare books. He also commended the Organization’s efforts in documenting and protecting Islamic and Arab heritage sites in danger and endeavoring to inscribe them on UNESCO’s World Heritage List.
Additionally, the President expressed concerns over the threats facing Islamic holy sites, particularly Al-Quds Al-Sharif (Jerusalem), Al-Aqsa Mosque—Islam’s first Qibla and third holiest site—and the sacred journey site of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
On another note, President Saied conveyed Tunisia’s appreciation for ICESCO’s willingness to contribute to the establishment of the “Iqraa” Global Center for Calligraphy Arts. He expressed Tunisia’s eagerness to strengthen collaboration with ICESCO, particularly in supporting national efforts to restore historic Tunisian cities listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites and in preparing nomination files for additional cities to be added to the list. He noted that many Tunisian cities deserve recognition as part of the world’s cultural heritage.
Under the theme “Innovative Finance… A Prosperous Economy,” the Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) held its 3rd Consultative Meeting on Tuesday, 25 February 2025, in Tunis. The meeting was organized in collaboration with Tunisia’s Ministry of Education and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) office in Tunisia, on the sidelines of the 45th session of ICESCO’s Executive Council.
The high-level meeting brought together ministers, experts, and representatives from ICESCO Member States and international organizations to discuss the most effective ways to mobilize sustainable and innovative financing. The discussions also focused on aligning ICESCO’s projects with the global landscape to enhance development within its Member States.
The opening session, moderated by Mr. Mohamed Hedi Shili, Head of ICESCO’s Department of Legal Affairs and International Standards, began with remarks by Mr. Noureddine Nouri, Tunisian Minister of Education. He welcomed the attendees and stressed the significance of Tunisia hosting ICESCO’s Consultative Meeting as part of the country’s belonging to the Islamic world and its commitment to supporting ICESCO’s pioneering efforts in education, science, and culture. He added that this session holds great importance due to the anticipated outcomes and decisions that will strengthen ICESCO’s work and impact in promoting comprehensive development.
For his part, Mr. Michel Le Pechoux, UNICEF’s representative in Tunisia, highlighted the importance of protecting children’s right to education and ensuring their empowerment through learning. He further emphasized the crucial role played by both UNICEF and ICESCO in advancing educational programs that target the most vulnerable groups and underscored the need to develop sustainable financing mechanisms to guarantee continued support for children’s education.
Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, ICESCO Director-General, expressed his sincere gratitude to His Excellency President Kaïs Saïed for his generous patronage of both the 3rd Consultative Meeting and the 45th session of ICESCO’s Executive Council. He praised Tunisia’s commitment to advancing the Organization’s work in its various fields.
Dr. AlMalik outlined three key objectives of the consultative meeting: • Strengthening ICESCO’s relationship with its Member States through consultation, cooperation, and friendship. • Engaging Member States in shaping ICESCO’s updated vision by incorporating their insights. • Exploring and developing new financing mechanisms to support ICESCO’s initiatives. He highlighted ICESCO’s efforts in securing alternative sources of funding beyond its core budget, enabling the Organization to implement numerous activities and programs.
Following the opening session, an in-depth discussion was held on inclusive education, featuring experts from ICESCO, Tunisia’s Ministry of Education, and UNICEF. Participants exchanged experiences on promoting equity and inclusion in education across ICESCO’s Member States and explored policies and strategies to ensure that all children are integrated into the education system. UNICEF also presented its plan, demonstrating how equity-driven policies can enhance education quality.
Additionally, Dr. Sally Mabrouk, Director of the ICESCO Director-General’s Office, chaired a session titled “Innovation in Financing: A Driver for Sustainable Economic Growth.” During this session, Mr. Anar Karimov, Head of Partnerships and International Cooperation at ICESCO, presented the key themes of the Consultative Meeting and outlined five strategies aimed at enhancing financing, identifying innovative approaches to diversify funding sources, and effectively implementing these initiatives.
Dr. Ashraf El Araby, Secretary-General of the Arab Society for Economic Research (ASFER), also gave a presentation titled “Enhancing Sustainable Finance: Exploring Innovative Mechanisms for Strategic Growth.” He emphasized the importance of strengthening innovative financing mechanisms to ensure sustainable development and contribute to achieving strategic objectives. He also discussed the challenges associated with financing, the need to increase public spending, and developing technological infrastructure through collaboration among governments, international organizations, and both the public and private sectors.
The meeting concluded with five working groups discussing the five financing strategies, namely: • Crowdfunding • Endowment Funds (Waqf) • Impact Investment Funds • Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) • Green Bonds
The groups explored and developed innovative ideas and initiatives, which were then presented to a jury panel in charge of selecting and refining the best proposals. These selected ideas will be incorporated into ICESCO’s innovation strategy to drive sustainable financing solutions.
On the occasion of the 64th anniversary of the National Day of the State of Kuwait and the 34th anniversary of Liberation Day, Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), extended his congratulations to His Highness the Amir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al Sabah, and His Highness Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah. He wished the Kuwaiti leadership and people continued progress and prosperity.
Dr. AlMalik commended Kuwait’s comprehensive development achievements across various fields, which have strengthened its prominent role regionally and internationally, establishing it as a model of progress and stability. He also praised Kuwait’s efforts in advancing education, science, and culture in the Arab and Islamic worlds, as well as its active humanitarian contributions to sustainable development, peace, and international cooperation.
Furthermore, Dr. AlMalik reaffirmed ICESCO’s pride in its strong partnership with Kuwait and its commitment to continuing fruitful cooperation to achieve shared goals that benefit the societies of the Islamic world and foster development and innovation.
Concluding his message, Dr. AlMalik expressed his hope that Kuwait continues to enjoy security and prosperity and that its wise leadership remains successful in driving progress and development.
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.
Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, ICESCO Director-General, congratulated the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on the occasion of the Founding Day. The Director-General issued a statement on this occasion, describing this day as a celebration of renewed glory and long-standing history.
He added that on this day, February 22, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia celebrates Founding Day, the day when Imam Muhammad bin Saud established the first Saudi State in 1139 AH/1727 AD, marking the beginning of a three-century history of glory and prosperity. He added that this day represents an occasion to recall the sacrifices of ancestors, the efforts of leaders, and the journey that laid the foundations of a nation firmly rooted in its identity, proud of its achievements, and steeped in its glorious history.
Dr. AlMalik stressed that Founding Day transcends being a mere historical anniversary to reflect a story of steadfastness and will, and showcase a link between the past and the present, inspiring generations to move forward on the paths of progress and development. He further explained that the first Saudi State carried the torch of unity and stability, and established the noble values that still shape the Kingdom’s identity to this day.
Following the same path of greatness, he added, the second Saudi State was an extension of that glory, and the march culminated in the establishment of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia by the founding King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Saud, to become a unique model of edification, development and stability.
In the same vein, the Director-General stated that, today, under the wise leadership of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, may Allah protect them, the Kingdom continues its steady progress towards the future, drawing inspiration from its ancient history to achieve its ambitious Vision 2030, which has become a global model in economic development, human empowerment, and the creation of promising opportunities, aiming at reshaping the future and establishing for an integrated economic, cultural and social prosperity.
He concluded his statement stating: Long live the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and long live its march towards a brighter future.
