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    Category: News

    ICESCO Holds International Seminar on Visual Arts and Theater

    Posted on by MOHAMED.AQEIL

    The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) held, via videoconference, the eighth session of its program “Artists of the World Hosted by ICESCO” under the theme “Between Visual Arts and Theater: The Body at the Heart of Creativity.” The seminar hosted Ms. Liselotte Nin, a writer, visual artist, and theater director from the Dominican Republic, with the aim of exploring intersections between contemporary artistic practices and highlighting the role of technology in shaping new creative experiences.

    The seminar, held on Thursday, 3 September 2026, was opened by Dr. Mohamed Zinelabidine, Head of the Culture Sector at ICESCO, who stressed the importance of establishing the program as an open space for exchange, discussion, and critical reflection, and of continuing its artistic and intellectual journey across diverse contexts. He noted that the richness of an artwork extends beyond its final form to encompass the process of its creation, its various stages of development, and the encounters that contribute to its evolution.

    He expressed the Organization’s aspiration to strengthen cooperation with artists from around the world and to provide opportunities for showcasing their works across its Member States, thereby supporting the building of sustainable bridges between artistic and cultural communities. He also commended the seminar’s guest for enriching discussions on emerging forms of creativity.

    In her presentation, visual artist Liselotte Nin explained that she does not define herself through a specific artistic discipline, but rather as an artist who views creativity as a means of exploring and questioning the world. She called for considering art as an open space that transcends predefined meanings and disciplinary boundaries in favor of a practice based on the integration of artistic forms.

    The artist highlighted the presence of themes related to African heritage, migration, identity, and memory in her work, emphasizing that she approaches them from a perspective that goes beyond individual experience to give them broader human dimensions. She also shed light on the concept of scenography as the art of designing and implementing visual and auditory spaces in theatrical, cinematic, and television productions.

    The seminar concluded with interventions on the role of artificial intelligence in contemporary creativity. The artist described AI as a new medium and creative partner that opens interactive possibilities between the artist’s vision and the capabilities of technology.

    ICESCO Concludes Fifth Arab Forum on Manuscript Heritage Management in Cairo

    Posted on by MOHAMED.AQEIL

    The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) concluded the Fifth Arab Forum on Manuscript Heritage Management, held in Cairo in cooperation with the Arab Administrative Development Organization (ARADO) from 1 to 3 September 2026 under the theme “From the Memory of the Past to Artificial Intelligence Technologies.” The Forum brought together a distinguished group of international experts, researchers, and specialists in the field of heritage management.

    In his address during the opening session, Dr. Idham Hanash, Director of the Calligraphy and Manuscripts Center at ICESCO, emphasized that the Forum reflects the Organization’s commitment to safeguarding manuscript heritage as an integral component of civilizational memory and a renewed source of knowledge.

    He explained that the theme of this edition calls for rethinking the philosophy of manuscript heritage management and moving beyond traditional preservation methods toward digital engineering approaches. This, he noted, requires integrating archaeology and manuscript studies with data science, computer science, artificial intelligence, information systems, and engineering in ways that enhance sustainability, ensure transmission to future generations, and maximize the benefits of their knowledge content.

    The Forum featured six scientific sessions, during which 15 papers were presented by researchers from seven Arab and foreign countries. Dr. Ahmed Abdelbasset, ICESCO Manuscripts Expert, chaired the closing session, during which participants’ recommendations were presented.

    The recommendations called for the harmonization of manuscript cataloging and digital transformation standards among Arab and Islamic institutions and libraries, the development of a unified reference model, and the establishment of a digital governance framework to regulate the work of manuscript repositories. They also stressed the importance of employing artificial intelligence in the structured processing of data to prevent the generation of unreliable information, as well as creating an international register of endangered manuscripts and mobilizing international support for their protection.

    Next Monday, Youth Knowledge Forum Kicks Off in Rabat and Four Other Countries across the Islamic World via Digital-Twin Technology

    Posted on by MOHAMED.AQEIL

    The fifth edition of the Knowledge Youth Forum, one of the initiatives of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), kicks off next Monday, 7 September 2026, at the headquarters of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) in Rabat. Held for the second time in the Kingdom of Morocco, the Forum is organized in partnership with ICESCO under the theme “From Crisis to Sustainability” and will bring together decision-makers, experts, and international specialists.

    This two-day event will feature the use of digital-twin technology, with Rabat serving as the Forum’s main hub and linked to four additional centers in the United Arab Emirates, the Arab Republic of Egypt, the Republic of Azerbaijan, and the Republic of Tatarstan of the Russian Federation. This model will enable young participants to engage and interact with the Forum’s sessions and workshops in real time, in a pioneering experience being implemented for the first time at an international forum across the Islamic world.

    During the Forum, a number of scholarships and in-kind awards will be granted to the most active and distinguished participants in the sessions and workshops. This initiative aims to encourage youth engagement in discussions, inspire them to develop practical and sustainable solutions to current challenges, and support their educational and professional development.

    The first day will feature an opening session attended by ministers, senior officials, and ambassadors accredited to the Kingdom of Morocco, followed by discussions on the interconnected global crises of 2026, sustainability as a framework for response, and the role of youth in recovering from the impacts of crises and transforming them into opportunities for growth.
    The second day will focus on the future of jobs and skills, examining labor market transformations, the gap between education and employment, and pathways to enhancing youth professional integration. It will also highlight national experiences in career guidance and support for future-oriented projects.

    ICESCO and Hamad Bin Khalifa University Explore Ways to Enhance Cooperation in Education, Artificial Intelligence and the Arabic Language

    Posted on by MOHAMED.AQEIL

    Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), received Dr. Ahmad M. Hasnah, President of Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), and the accompanying delegation on Thursday, 3 September 2026, at ICESCO Headquarters in Rabat. The meeting explored prospects for cooperation between ICESCO and HBKU, which is a member of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development, in the areas of youth capacity building, education development, leveraging artificial intelligence, and enhancing the global presence of the Arabic language.

    During the meeting, Dr. AlMalik commended the close partnership between ICESCO and the State of Qatar, as well as its various institutions and bodies. This partnership has resulted in the development and implementation of several pioneering initiatives and programs, foremost among them the ICESCO Regional Educational Center in Chad, which works to promote the Arabic language.

    The ICESCO Director-General also praised the contributions of Qatar Foundation, noting that, under the wise leadership of Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of the Foundation, it has become one of the international institutions of which the Islamic world is proud, owing to its pioneering roles in the fields of education, research, innovation, community development, and human capital development.

    Dr. AlMalik highlighted the Organization’s investment, as part of its vision and strategic orientations, in women’s capacity building by developing women’s skills and educating girls, in addition to its commitment to attracting qualified women to assume leadership positions within the Organization. He also reviewed ICESCO’s efforts to promote foresight and scientific research, as well as cooperation with universities and research institutions.

    Dr. AlMalik reaffirmed the paramount importance that ICESCO attaches to heritage protection by inscribing cultural elements and historical sites on its Islamic World Heritage List and assisting its Member States in inscribing their archaeological sites on the World Heritage List.

    For his part, Dr. Hasnah commended the qualitative transformation ICESCO has undergone in recent years. He noted that today’s meeting was held at the direction of Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser and comes as part of HBKU’s commitment to cooperation with ICESCO, particularly in developing a program to promote artificial intelligence ethics in line with Arab and Islamic values and culture, as well as in building youth capacities.

    The President of HBKU also stressed that the reluctance of Arab and Islamic societies to engage with Arabic-language content calls for the joint development and implementation of activities and projects aimed at encouraging writing, publishing and reading in Arabic, as well as establishing local knowledge banks.

    Following the meeting, the University delegation held separate meetings with several heads of Sectors, Departments, and Centers at ICESCO, during which the Organization’s initiatives and activities were presented, and a number of programs proposed for implementation in the coming period were discussed.

    The delegation included Ms. Abeer Al Khalifa, President of Pre-University Education; Sheikha Noof Al Thani, Vice President of Strategic Educational Initiatives at Pre-University Education; Dr. Mohammed Ghaly, Head of the Research Center for Islamic Legislation & Ethics (CILE); Mr. Yousuf AlKhulaifi, Manager of PUE President’s Office; and Ms. Lilit Ohennisian, Projects Lead at HBKU.

    ICESCO Director-General Congratulates Dr. Ahmed Said Ould Bah on His Appointment as Director General of OIC Secretary-General’s Cabinet

    Posted on by MOHAMED.AQEIL

    Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), congratulated Dr. Ahmed Said Ould Bah on his appointment as Director General of OIC Secretary-General’s Cabinet, wishing him every success in his new position and continued fulfillment in his distinguished professional career, marked by dedication and achievement in service of the causes of the Islamic world, during his tenure in numerous leadership positions within ICESCO over nearly three decades.
    Dr. AlMalik expressed his high appreciation for Dr. Ahmed Said’s professional record, affirming that he had been one of the Organization’s outstanding professionals and distinguished leaders, renowned for his knowledge, experience, integrity, and sound judgment, leaving a positive impact in every position he held.

    Furthermore, ICESCO Director-General stated that the Organization would miss a valued colleague and dedicated leader, but would continue to regard him with pride as its ambassador to the OIC, carrying its spirit and mission in his new position. Dr. AlMalik noted that his presence in this position would open broader horizons for partnership between the OIC and ICESCO and give it renewed momentum grounded in trust, shared knowledge, and a shared commitment to their common mission.

    It is worth noting that Dr. Ahmed Said Ould Bah has had an extensive career within ICESCO, which began in the mid-1990s, during which he headed and supervised several sectors and departments of the Organization. He most recently served as an Advisor to ICESCO’s General Directorate and has become a role model for enlightened leadership and dedicated, diligent work.

    ICESCO Concludes INNOverse 50+ Forum in Tatarstan Following a Series of Interactive Sessions and Innovation Workshops

    Posted on by MOHAMED.AQEIL

    The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) concluded, on Friday, 28 August 2026, in Kazan, Republic of Tatarstan, Russian Federation, the INNOverse 50+ Forum, held under the theme “For a Resilient Future,” in cooperation with the Ministry of Youth of Tatarstan, the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation, Kazan Federal University, and the Academy of Youth Diplomacy.

    Over the course of two days, the Forum featured an intensive series of interactive and hands-on sessions and innovation workshops, with the participation of over 50 innovators, entrepreneurs, and influencers representing 20 countries. Each session addressed key challenges and crises facing the world and its future.

    Participants employed several innovation tools and methodologies, beginning with identifying challenges and analyzing their causes and risks, followed by generating ideas and working collaboratively on them, and culminating in presenting scalable innovative solutions.

    At the conclusion of the Forum, educational and professional grants were announced in cooperation with ICESCO’s partners, enabling participants to advance their professional pathway toward certification as specialized professional experts in innovation. The Global Innovation Institute (GInI) provided more than 50 grants to participants.

    The participants who delivered the best outstanding presentations were also given the opportunity to enroll in the Coursera platform and benefit from more than 13,000 educational and professional courses, programs, and certificates offered by leading universities and academic institutions worldwide.

    INNOverse 50+ demonstrated youth’s ability to develop practical solutions to the major crises and challenges facing the world through a youth-led experience involving people from countries across the Islamic world and beyond. The experience brought together diverse backgrounds, fields of specialization, and expertise in an international environment based on innovation, collaborative work, and knowledge exchange.

    Moreover, INNOverse 50+ reflects a practical model of ICESCO’s approach to moving young people from discussing challenges to innovating solutions, connecting youth potential with international expertise and specialized partners, and transforming promising ideas into opportunities for learning and development, as well as scalable projects and solutions. This approach strengthens the role of young people in shaping the future and innovating sustainable solutions to the major challenges facing the world.

    ICESCO Director-General Reviews Priorities for Transforming Universities into Engines of Innovation at ICESCO Forum of Rectors in Kazan

    Posted on by MOHAMED.AQEIL

    The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) held the ICESCO Forum of Rectors, under the Federation of the Universities of the Islamic World (FUIW), on Friday, 28 August 2026, in Kazan, Republic of Tatarstan, Russian Federation, under the theme “Reimagining Higher Education in the Islamic World: Partnerships, Innovation, and International Competitiveness.” The Forum brought together ministers, senior officials, and university vice chancellors from across and beyond the Islamic world.

    During the Forum’s plenary session, Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of ICESCO, delivered a recorded address in which he noted that the history of Kazan bears witness to the progress generated by cultural and intellectual exchange among peoples. He highlighted that the Forum, held in parallel with the Kazan Global Youth Summit, forms part of a forward-looking vision that positions higher education as a space for preparing the youth to build the future. He further expressed his appreciation to H.E. Rustam Minnikhanov, Rais of the Republic of Tatarstan, and the

    Organization’s partners in the Russian Federation for their continued commitment to supporting ICESCO’s activities and initiatives.

    Dr. AlMalik affirmed that the Forum constitutes an important platform for discussing the transformations taking place in universities and contributing to guiding their implementation and shaping curricula, with a view to providing inclusive higher education that responds to the aspirations of societies, particularly at a time when education and the labor market are being reshaped by the artificial intelligence revolution.

    Dr. AlMalik also outlined several priorities for ICESCO and its affiliated Federation over the next three years, aimed at turning universities in the Islamic world into engines of innovation and gateways to opportunities. These include an academic mobility action plan for students, faculty members, and researchers, involving 50 universities and benefiting 1,000 students and 200 academics; the development of a framework to strengthen the mutual recognition of qualifications and academic units, with the participation of 15 countries; the development of 20 programs and 10 joint digital or laboratory facilities; and enhanced cooperation between universities and research centers to author joint publications.

    The first session featured Dr. Riyaz Minzaripov, President of Kazan Federal University; Dr. Rae Kwon Chung, Nobel Peace Prize laureate; Dr. M. Iqbal Choudhary, Coordinator General of COMSTECH; Dr. Amjad Barham Dabab, Minister of Education and Higher Education of the State of Palestine; Mr. Bakary Y. Badjie, Minister of Youth and Sports of the Republic of The Gambia; and Dr. Modesto Ricardo Gómez Crespo, First Deputy Minister of Higher Education of the Republic of Cuba.

    The Forum also featured a session titled “Education in an Era of Global Change: Human Capital for Sustainable Development,” which discussed young people’s perspectives and pathways for education and professional development. Another session, titled “The Role of University Federations and Global Partnerships in Advancing Higher Education in the Islamic World,” focused on the importance of providing strategic leadership and fostering joint cooperation among universities and organizations.

    The Forum concluded with the roundtable “Universities of the Future: From Leadership to Innovation,” during which participants highlighted ways for universities to respond to technological, economic, and social transformations. The event also witnessed the signing of nine memoranda of understanding between the participating entities.

    ICESCO, Tunisian National Commission Explore Ways to Enhance the Cultural Profile of Sousse

    Posted on by MOHAMED.AQEIL

    The Culture Sector of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) discussed with the Tunisian National Commission for Education, Science and Culture and the Municipality of Sousse ways to strengthen cooperation in developing the city, promoting its cultural and heritage assets, and supporting its urban and creative projects.

    During the meeting, held on Thursday, 27 August 2026, Dr. Mohammed Zine Alabidine, Head of ICESCO’s Culture Sector, reaffirmed the Organization’s commitment to strengthening partnerships with cities and cultural institutions in its Member States and supporting projects that integrate heritage preservation with cultural development and innovation.

    He noted ICESCO’s readiness to provide technical and advisory expertise for the development of Sousse’s cultural and urban heritage and the establishment of new cultural institutions and spaces. He also highlighted the Organization’s capacity to support the restoration of historical monuments, taking into account the city’s specific characteristics and development priorities.

    The Tunisian National Commission presented the Sousse Development Strategy project, outlining priority areas for the city’s development, including the promotion of its historical landmarks and cultural heritage and the enhancement of its urban and cultural infrastructure.

    The meeting concluded with an agreement to establish a framework for joint cooperation through a committee comprising representatives of ICESCO, UNESCO, and the Municipality of Sousse. The committee will identify priority areas of cooperation and projects for joint implementation.
    The Tunisian delegation included Mr. Issam Louhichi, Secretary-General of the National Commission; Mr. Mourad Ben Salem, Secretary-General of the Municipality of Sousse; Ms. Manel Makhlouf, Architect at the Municipality; and Mr. Lotfi Ben Salah, Architect and Civil Society Activist.

    Dr. AlMalik to Oman TV: “Bridges of Civilization” Program Offers First-Hand Insight into the Cultural and Civilizational Assets of Member StatesDhofar, 28/8/ 2026

    Posted on by MOHAMED.AQEIL

    The official national television broadcaster for the Sultanate of Oman hosted Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), for an interview addressing cultural and civilizational issues and highlighting the Organization’s key programs and initiatives to strengthen communication and rapprochement among the countries of the Islamic world.

    During the live interview, broadcast on Thursday, 27 August 2026, as part of the program ” The People and the Autumn,” Dr. AlMalik presented ICESCO’s new “Bridges of Civilization” program, launched by the General Secretariat of National Commissions and Conferences. He explained that the program forms part of ICESCO’s efforts to advance civilizational diplomacy and expand opportunities for dialogue and exchange among Member States. He noted that it enables participants to gain first-hand insight into the distinctive national characteristics and cultural and civilizational assets of each Member State.

    The Director-General also highlighted the rich heritage and cultural and tourism attractions of Dhofar Governorate, expressing his appreciation for its natural diversity and civilizational richness, where history, environment, and culture converge. He noted that several heritage sites in the governorate are included on ICESCO’s Heritage List in the Islamic World.

    Dr. AlMalik stressed that heritage is not merely an extension of the past, but a living component of identity and a resource for shaping the future. He emphasized that safeguarding cultural heritage must go hand in hand with investment in knowledge and creativity and with empowering future generations.

    Dr. AlMalik also recited a poem entitled “Salalah and the Beauty of Its Panorama,” celebrating Dhofar Governorate and evoking its landscapes, natural beauty, and deep historical and civilizational heritage.
    The interview concluded with a message from the Director-General to the youth of the Islamic world, encouraging them to take pride in their heritage, recognize its value, contribute to its preservation, and volunteer to protect heritage sites and landmarks.

    The interview took place on the sidelines of the visit of ICESCO delegation, headed by Dr. AlMalik, to Dhofar Governorate under the “Bridges of Civilization” program, currently hosted by the Sultanate of Oman.

    ICESCO Holds INNOverse 50+ Forum in Tatarstan, Bringing Together Innovators, Entrepreneurs, and Influencers

    Posted on by MOHAMED.AQEIL

    The INNOverse 50+ Forum, organized by the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) in cooperation with the Ministry for Youth Affairs of the Republic of Tatarstan, the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation, Kazan Federal University, and the Academy of Youth Diplomacy, opened on Thursday, 27 August 2026, in Kazan, Republic of Tatarstan, Russian Federation. Held under the theme “For a Resilient Future,” the two-day forum brought together more than 50 experts, innovators, entrepreneurs, and influencers from around the world, alongside young talents from Tatarstan, and took place in parallel with the Kazan Global Youth Summit.

    The opening high-level session featured remarks by Mr. Timur Suleimanov, Aide to the Rais of the Republic of Tatarstan, Head of the Regional Department of the Russian “The Movement of the First”; Mr. Azat Rifgatovich Kadyrov, Minister for Youth Affairs of the Republic of Tatarstan; Mr. Timirkhan Alishev, Vice-Rector for International Cooperation at Kazan Federal University; and Dr. Sally Mabrouk, Head of the Office of Director-General, Supervisor of the Strategy and Institutional Excellence Sector at ICESCO.

    The speakers underscored the importance of empowering young people, investing in their creative potential, and strengthening their role in anticipating the future and developing solutions to rapidly evolving global challenges. They also stressed the value of international platforms that enable young people to exchange perspectives and expertise, engage with experts and academic and innovation institutions, and expand opportunities for cooperation and joint action.

    The forum features the interactive youth experience “Factory for Innovation,” which enables participants to collaborate, network, and transform ideas into projects with tangible impact. Participants were divided into groups addressing five themes linked to contemporary crises, risks, and challenges: health and biosecurity; social and economic crises; reputation and communication; climate change and the environment; and cybersecurity and artificial intelligence.

    Under expert supervision, the groups will analyze the risks and challenges associated with each theme, exchange insights and experiences, examine their implications and response mechanisms, and develop practical projects and solutions. The methodology positions participants not merely as beneficiaries, but as partners in developing responses to emerging risks and challenges.

    Through the INNOverse 50+ Forum, ICESCO seeks to create an international platform for innovation and networking, bringing together experts and innovators to exchange knowledge, expertise, and success stories. The forum also aims to make innovation a driver of youth capacity development by strengthening analytical and critical-thinking skills, fostering innovative solutions for a resilient future and sustainable development, promoting cooperation among organizations, institutions, and research centers, and supporting initiatives that give younger generations greater space to articulate and advance their visions.