The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) and the Moroccan National Commission for Education, Science and Culture are pleased to announce the organization of the third ICESCO Marathon.
The marathon will kick off at 9:00 a.m. on Sunday, 30 November 2025, in front of ICESCO headquarters, located on FAR Avenue in Hay Riad, Rabat. Participants will run through several of the city’s main streets in a sporting atmosphere open to all.
The marathon is organized in cooperation with the Ministries of National Education, Primary Education, Sports, Youth, Culture and Communication, as well as a number of Moroccan and international bodies involved in community development. The event, which is being held under the theme “Sport as a Pathway to Development and Empowerment” as part of the “Sport for Social Change” initiative previously launched by ICESCO, reflects the integration of efforts to promote sport as a gateway to sustainable development and to promote the values of solidarity, equality and peace.
ICESCO invites interested individuals of all ages to take part in this sporting event by registering via the following link: https://icesco.org/En7ir9
The winner will receive a fully paid, week-long trip in 2026 to a country that will be announced later, as well as incentive prizes for the top participants.
ICESCO is organizing this 3rd edition out of its belief in the important role of sport in building the resilience of young people, women and vulnerable groups. The event is also in line with the great sporting momentum experienced by the Kingdom of Morocco, which will host the finals of the 2025 African Cup of Nations.
Dr. Salim AlMalik, Director General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), called for human-centered international unity to tackle the climate change crisis, stressing that the path to net-zero emissions must be built on cooperation, trust, and shared humanity. This was stated in a recorded speech presented during a panel discussion at the Conference of the Parties on Climate Change (COP30) in Brazil.
The session, organized by ICESCO on Friday, 14 November 2025, in partnership with the Commission on Science and Technology for Sustainable Development in the South (COMSATS) and the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM), was titled “Pathways to Carbon Neutrality through South-South Cooperation: Resilient Climate Technologies, Enhanced Capacities, and Cultural Roots,” with the participation of a number of international climate experts and specialists.
In his speech, Dr. AlMalik emphasized that climate action must be based on shared global responsibility and a renewed commitment to the principles of justice and solidarity, noting that the climate crisis is no longer a distant threat, but a daily reality for millions of people in the Global South. He pointed out that the air we all breathe and the water shared by humans are all elements that belong to one planet and one humanity.
ICESCO Director General further noted that the effects of climate change, from water scarcity and extreme weather phenomena to declining agricultural productivity, are reshaping the daily life of people in a number of Member States, stressing the importance of intensifying cooperation among countries of the Global South, especially as they are currently leading the most innovative experiences in adaptation.
Dr. AlMalik concluded his speech by saying that the path to a zero-emission future can only be built collectively through trust, solidarity, and a shared ambition to create a world worthy of the dreams of the children and youth of the future.
The session also featured an interactive discussion between representatives of participating organizations and experts. Ambassador Dr. Mohammad Nafees Zakaria, COMSATS Executive Director, considered South-South cooperation to be vital in addressing climate challenges, with the need to transfer technology from the global North given its historical responsibility for exacerbating the crisis. Dr. Nasser Kamel, Secretary-General of the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM), pointed out that achieving carbon neutrality requires integrated frameworks that link technology, culture, and institutions.
In cooperation with the Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation for Medical and Educational Sciences, ICESCO held, on 12 and 13 November 2025, a regional workshop on the “Theoretical Foundations of Language Teaching and Learning” at the “Mishkat Al-Arabiya” Hall. The workshop was attended by a number of participants, as well as 204 trainees via videoconferencing. The trainees were among a host of outstanding educational staff working in the field of teaching Arabic to non-Arabic speakers in 14 countries.
Dr. Mohamed Ismaili Alaoui, Director of the University Centre for Arabic Language for Non-Arabic Speakers at Sultan Moulay Slimane University in Beni Mellal, Morocco, gave a talk on educational issues related to the cognitive competencies of educational supervisors. He began with a review of the theoretical foundations of second and foreign language teaching and learning. He also touched on how educational supervisors can use artificial intelligence tools to develop new ideas and methods to improve their supervisory and leadership performance, as well as enhance Arabic language teaching programs in their countries.
This workshop is part of the 2025-2026 annual program of “Mishkat Educational Leadership in Teaching Arabic to Non-Arabic Speakers”, which is implemented by ICESCO in partnership with the Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation for Medical and Educational Sciences, and in academic cooperation with Sultan Moulay Slimane University in Beni Mellal, Morocco. The programme trains hundreds of outstanding staff working in Arabic language teaching for non-Arabic speakers across 14 countries in West and Central Africa, Central Asia, and Southeast Asia.
The ICESCO Center for Civilizational Dialogue, part of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), held on Thursday, 13 November 2025, a remote meeting with the Social Affairs Sector – Culture and Dialogue of Civilizations Department at the League of Arab States. The meeting aimed to discuss ways of strengthening coordination in combating violence and hate speech, as well as launching joint initiatives to promote a culture of dialogue and coexistence.
During the meeting, Ambassador Khalid Fathalrahman, Director of the Centre for Civilizational Dialogue, reaffirmed ICESCO’s commitment to implementing the recommendations of the First Conference on Islamophobia, and to promoting a culture of acceptance of others. He announced ICESCO’s readiness to contribute to future initiatives that serve the objectives of both parties and achieve a concrete impact on target groups.
The discussion reviewed the outcomes of the First Conference on Islamophobia and explored the possibility of holding another conference in Rabat, Morocco, on discrimination against Muslims. Other initiatives were also reviewed, notably a joint training program for trainers on countering extremism. This would strengthen the capacity of educational and cultural institutions to prevent and respond to extremism.
In attendance were ICESCO experts Dr. Hani Albalawi and Dr. Abdoulaye Al Maiga from the Centre for Civilizational Dialogue; Dr. Youssef Badr Mashari, Director of the Department of Culture and Dialogue among Civilizations; and Ms. Noha Ayad from the League of Arab States.
The ICESCO Chair on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence at the University of Technology and Applied Sciences in the Sultanate of Oman organized, on Wednesday, 12 November 2025, a specialized workshop titled “Artificial Intelligence, Ethics and Advanced Technologies” at the Livestock Research Center of the Directorate General of Agriculture and Livestock Research within the Omani Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Water Resources in Al-Rumais.
The workshop aimed to raise awareness of the applications of AI in scientific research, highlight the ethical issues associated with modern technology, and discuss how these technologies can support innovation and sustainable development in agriculture, the environment, and education.
Dr. Musab Alrawi, Director of the Chair, presented the workshop and reviewed the transformations brought about by artificial intelligence in education and scientific research. He emphasized the importance of adhering to ethical values and building transparent and fair intelligent systems. Participants also received practical training on using AI tools to detect plagiarism and fabricated data, with the aim of promoting research integrity and safeguarding the credibility of scientific production.
Dr. Alrawi reaffirmed that the Sultanate of Oman is making steady progress in establishing a national scientific research system that is grounded in ethics and innovation. This is being achieved through initiatives led by the ICESCO Chair, in collaboration with specialized research institutions such as the Livestock Research Centre.
The workshop concluded with a number of recommendations, most notably the strengthening of cooperation between universities and research centers in order to develop a national framework for AI ethics, as well as the integration of concepts of integrity and digital ethics into educational curricula.
The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) reaffirmed its commitment to promoting sports as a tool for empowerment, peace, and inclusion during its participation in the Third African Forum on Gender Equality in Sports, held in Bujumbura, Republic of Burundi, in the presence of His Excellency President Évariste Ndayishimiye and First Lady Angeline Ndayishimiye.
Organized by the Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ACNOA), in cooperation with the Burundi National Olympic Committee (CNO) and with support from the Government of Burundi, the event brought together ministers, policymakers, and prominent figures from the sports world to discuss concrete mechanisms for advancing gender balance and empowering women and girls through sports participation.
ICESCO was represented at the forum by Ms. Ramata Almamy Mbaye, Director of Social and Human Sciences Sector, who delivered a speech during the session titled “Sport and Social Inclusion: Sport as a Driver of Peace, Inclusion and Resilience for Women.” She outlined ICESCO’s strategic approach to integrating sports into its programs as a means of promoting gender equality, strengthening social cohesion, and contributing to sustainable development across Member States.
Ms. Mbaye underlined that ICESCO’s “Sport for Social Change” initiative places women and youth at the heart of action by enhancing leadership opportunities, encouraging girls’ participation in sports, and supporting the development of inclusive and ethical sports policies. She presented several of the Organization’s innovative projects, including sports camps that support the rehabilitation and reintegration of vulnerable children and youth, as well as the ICESCO Marathon, which reflects the Organization’s belief in sports as a platform for solidarity and economic inclusion.
The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) is participating in the 30th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP30), held in Belém, Brazil, from 10 to 21 November 2025, under the theme “A Decade of Acceleration and Delivery.” The Conference brings together world leaders, policymakers, private-sector representatives, and global stakeholders to examine priority measures for addressing climate change, present new national plans for climate action, and follow up on progress made in implementing the financial commitments announced at COP29.
ICESCO’s delegation to COP30 includes Dr. Muhammad Sharif, Advisor at the Science and Environment Sector; Dr. Fahman Fathurrahman, Expert at the same sector; and Ms. Manuela Nicoletti, external expert at the Culture and Communication Sector. Throughout the Conference, the delegation will present ICESCO’s methodology for addressing climate challenges through education, scientific research, and cultural engagement, in addition to participating in meetings aimed at strengthening cooperation with international partners.
As part of its program of activities at the Conference, ICESCO is organizing eight side events in cooperation with various partners in the Blue Zone, the area designated for UN-accredited negotiations and high-level events. These sessions will address key topics such as food systems and sustainable agriculture, climate finance, innovative green technologies, ecosystem- and nature-based solutions, and urban resilience. The activities will also feature ICESCO initiatives that support Member States in building sustainable and adaptable societies.
One of the main dialogues will include a recorded address by ICESCO Director-General, Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, in which he will outline the Organization’s priorities in climate action and the role of education, science, and culture in building resilient communities.
His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, along with Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), and His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, inaugurated the Regional Office of ICESCO in the United Arab Emirates, on Thursday, 13 November 2025. The Office is located in the University City of Sharjah.
His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, together with the ICESCO Director-General, unveiled the commemorative plaque to mark the official inauguration of ICESCO’s Regional Office in Sharjah, which will provide the Organization with the necessary resources to carry out its tasks in its areas of action through educational, scientific, and cultural activities, and by providing the best technical, scientific, and practical services and institutional support to Member States. Sharjah was chosen for its distinguished cultural status and its hosting of prominent institutions such as museums and research centers, in addition to its geographical location, which facilitates access to the Gulf countries, the Middle East, and North Africa.
On this occasion, His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah wrote in the visitors’ book: “This morning, we are delighted to meet our partners in science and knowledge. Hands have been extended and minds have been set on sincere and honest work, extending first to humanity and then to minds that Allah has blessed with sincere faith and work for the advancement of Islam. Let us always be together and sincere in our giving.”
Dr. AlMalik also delivered a speech, commending the efforts of the Emirate of Sharjah and its Ruler in supporting cultural and scientific organizations, stressing that the opening of the ICESCO Regional Office in the Emirate was made possible thanks to the insightful vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi in making culture a living project vibrant with knowledge and creativity, describing Sharjah, under its wise leadership, as having always believed that the real investment is in people, and that building minds is the best way to shape the future.
Dr. AlMalik announced that ICESCO is proud to award the title of “Guardian of Knowledge” to His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah in recognition of his decades-long efforts, during which he has been a symbol of knowledge, an icon of creativity, and a supporter of creators and intellectuals. This title is in recognition of his steadfast efforts in serving culture, supporting science, nurturing literature and arts, and consolidating the values of identity, openness, and wisdom.
In his address, the Director-General of the Organization discussed the functions of the new headquarters, which will serve as a platform for promoting cultural communication and a center for implementing programs and initiatives that serve humanity, celebrate the word, the idea, the painting, and the image, and affirm Sharjah’s status as a beacon of knowledge and cultural influence.
For his part, Salem Omar Salem, Director of the ICESCO Regional Office in Sharjah, emphasized that the Office will be a beacon that guides, evaluates, and provides solutions to decision-makers and cultural leaders, bringing together minds in an environment that ignites thought and inspires creativity. He emphasized the Regional Office’s commitment to harnessing knowledge to serve humanity, supporting education and scientific research, embracing digital culture, and promoting sustainable development.
The ICESCO Regional Office in Sharjah was built on the ground floor and includes a comprehensive set of administrative, technical, and service departments. It covers an area of more than 3,000 square meters within a total land area of more than 42,000 square meters. The building can accommodate 95 employees and is equipped to receive 245 visitors in its various facilities, such as the theater, training hall, and reception hall, bringing the total capacity for employees and visitors to 340.
The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) took part on Wednesday, 12 November 2025, in the international forum organized by the Catholic Church in Rabat on interfaith dialogue and education. The event brought together a distinguished group of religious and educational figures, as well as regional and international experts in intercultural dialogue.
ICESCO was represented by Ambassador Khaled Fatahalrahman, Head of ICESCO’s Center for Civilizational Dialogue, who presented the Organization’s vision for strengthening cooperation within the shared civilizational and religious space. He highlighted a range of educational approaches to integrate the values of understanding and mutual respect into school environments. He also reviewed key experiences from ICESCO Member States in curriculum development, teacher training, and school life activities that promote a culture of dialogue.
Following the forum, the Catholic delegation visited the International Fair and Museum of the Prophet’s Biography and Islamic Civilization, hosted at ICESCO Headquarters. They were received by Dr. Abdelillah Benarafa, Deputy Director-General of the Organization, who outlined ICESCO’s core efforts to promote civilizational dialogue. He also presented the Organization’s field initiatives and institutional partnerships in the area of interfaith dialogue, as well as its educational studies and reports that foster the values of coexistence and counter hate speech.
The visit concluded with a tour of the Fair, during which the guests expressed their appreciation for the museum’s scholarly approach and its presentation of models of civilizational dialogue.
Dr. Abdelilah Benarafa, Deputy Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), received on Wednesday, 12 November 2025, at the Organization’s headquarters in Rabat, Dr. Essam Al-Rubaian, President of the Civil Service Bureau of the State of Kuwait, accompanied by Counselor Saud Almutairi, Chargé d’Affaires at the Embassy of Kuwait in the Kingdom of Morocco.
The meeting discussed prospects for enhancing cooperation between ICESCO and the State of Kuwait in the fields of education, science, culture, media, and communication, as well as building practical partnerships that promote the exchange of expertise and jointly prioritized programs.
At the outset of the meeting, Dr. Benarafa welcomed the Kuwaiti delegation and reaffirmed the strength and vitality of the ties between ICESCO and Kuwait. He presented an overview of the Organization’s vision and strategic orientations, as well as the programs, projects, and activities it implements for the benefit of its Member States, particularly in advancing educational systems, modernizing curricula, and empowering women and youth and preparing them with the skills needed for future professions.
Dr. Benarafa also highlighted ICESCO’s initiatives to promote the values of coexistence, peace, and intercultural dialogue, encourage investment in technology, innovation, and AI applications, foster a culture of foresight, and enhance the global standing of the Arabic language through innovative initiatives and specialized academic and media partnerships.
For his part, Dr. Essam Al-Rubaian commended ICESCO’s leading role in advancing human development and knowledge, and in implementing practical projects that promote a culture of peace. He also praised ICESCO’s institutional progress and the wealth of expertise it has accumulated across its specialized centers and sectors. Dr. Al-Rubaian reaffirmed Kuwait’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with ICESCO through impactful joint programs in capacity building, digital transformation in education, and supporting initiatives that promote the Arabic language.
Following the meeting, Dr. Benarafa accompanied the Kuwaiti delegation on a tour of the International Exhibition and Museum of the Prophet’s Seerah and Islamic Civilization housed at ICESCO’s headquarters. The delegation was briefed on the exhibition’s educational and technological pavilions. They also visited ICESCO’s Media and Communication Sector, where they were introduced to its specialized units, including the newly established studio designed to enhance the production of digital content in support of the Organization’s mission.
The meeting was attended by Ambassador Khalid Fathalrahman, Head of the Center for Civilizational Dialogue; Dr. Ahmed Said Ould Bah, Advisor to the ICESCO Director-General; Dr. Barakat Al-Wegyan, Director of the Communication Department; and Mr. Mohammad Alahmad, Assistant Undersecretary at Kuwait’s Civil Service Commission.
