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    Tunisian President Kais Saied Receives ICESCO Director-General and Executive Council Delegation

    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.

    Innovative Finance: The Focus of ICESCO’s 3rd Consultative Meeting in Tunisia

    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.

    ICESCO Director-General Extends Felicitations to Kuwait on its 64th National Day

    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.

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

    ICESCO Director-General extends congratulations to Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on Founding Day, describing it as celebration of renewed glory and long-standing history

    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.

    Promoting strategic foresight in Tunisian institutions at heart of ICESCO’s training sessions’ priorities

    As part of ongoing efforts to integrate strategic foresight into governance and decision-making processes, the Center for Foresight and AI at the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural (ICESCO), in cooperation with the Tunisian National Commission for Education, Science and Culture, and the International Center for Training of Trainers and Pedagogical Innovation, held introductory sessions on strategic foresight for the benefit of representatives of various Tunisian ministries. The sessions aimed at introducing participants to key foresight concepts and methodologies, and standardizing terminology among the ministries involved in the creation of Tunisia’s Strategic Monitoring and Foresight Unit.

    Held on 20-21 February, 2025, the training sessions are part of an integrated initiative to foster foresight at Tunisian Government institutions, and provide participants with the necessary foresight tools to enable them to anticipate future challenges and integrate long-term strategic planning into policymaking processes.

    Dr. Kais Hammami, Head of ICESCO’s Center for Foresight and Artificial Intelligence, oversaw a specialized training featuring a number of activities including the development of foresight scenarios to enable beneficiaries to recognize future possibilities and develop flexible strategies capable of dealing with the increasingly complex and uncertain global landscape.

    Dr. Hammami also moderated another activity aimed at building capacities and developing proactive response skills to address challenges facing participants’ institutions and fields of work.

    Gaining two million live views in two days

    “Youth Knowledge Forum for the Islamic World” concludes proceedings amid wide international youth interaction

    The “Youth Knowledge Forum for the Islamic World”, held by Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural (ICESCO), in partnership with the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation (MBRF) and in cooperation with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), concluded its proceedings on Friday, February 2025, at ICESCO headquarters.

    Held under the theme, “Knowledge is the Future,” the Forum aimed to nurture young people’s creative and innovative talents in knowledge fields, prepare them for the professions of tomorrow and highlight inspiring young models.

    At the course of his closing remarks, Dr. Hani Turki, Chief Technical Advisor and Director of the UNDP Knowledge Project, stated that the trend now shifts towards launching a digital platform to receive suggestions from young people on ways to promote knowledge, proposals that will be studied and evaluated with the aim of putting them into practice.

    For her part, Dr. Sally Mabrouk, Director of the Office of ICESCO Director General, commended the great success of the Forum, noting that the high attendance this event attracted in addition to the wide interaction of young people via live streaming, which reached nearly 2 million live views during the two days of the Forum, reflects the growing importance of such events in empowering young people and preparing them for the future.

    The Forum witnessed the participation of hundreds of young people from different parts of the Islamic world at the ICESCO headquarters in Rabat. In addition to discussion sessions on various fields of knowledge, the Forum also featured success stories of creative and innovative young women and men.

    Regional Workshop to Support Removal of Arab Sites from List of World Heritage in Danger Concludes Proceedings

    ICESCO Director-General calls for increased efforts to safeguard and document world heritage sites in Arab countries

    The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) and the Arab Regional Center for World Heritage (ARC-WH) concluded the Regional Workshop to Support the Removal of Cultural Properties in the Arab Region from the List of World Heritage in Danger, held at ICESCO headquarters in Rabat, on 17-21 February 2025.

    The workshop sought to build participants’ capacities in preparing “Desired State of Conservation” reports, a key step in removing sites from the List of Heritage in Danger, as well as providing specialized training on reviewing the approved indicators and developing a roadmap to complete the corrective measures required to protect these sites and ensure their sustainability.

    In his opening remarks, Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, ICESCO Director-General, underlined that the workshop offers a strategic platform to exchange experiences and strengthen joint efforts to safeguard Arab heritage sites, stressing the need to exert more work to improve protection and documentation measures to ensure the removal of Arab World Heritage sites from the List.

    Dr. AlMalik added that this initiative seeks to develop effective solutions and provide practical plans to preserve Arab cultural heritage, and steer joint efforts towards the development of effective strategies based on modern and advanced methodological plans.

    Speaking next, Sheikh Ibrahim Al Khalifa, ARC-WH Deputy Director, commended ICESCO’s work on promoting the protection of Arab heritage, pointing out the need for sustained cooperation to preserve these sites and ensure their protection for future generations.

    For his part, Dr. Mohamed Zinelabidine, Head of ICESCO’s Culture Sector, stressed the importance of the partnership between the Organization and institutions such as the ARC-WH in Bahrain, the Moroccan Ministry of Youth, Culture and Communication, the World Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS), and the International Alliance for the Protection of Heritage in Conflict Areas (ALEF), considering that it offers as a successful model of regional and international cooperation in the field of heritage protection.

    The workshop saw the participation of 28 heritage experts from eight Arab countries, with 20 attending in person, and eight others participating via videoconferencing.

    ICESCO opens nominations for best youth peace initiatives for its 100 Ambassadors 

    The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) is pleased to announce the opening of nominations for the 100 young ICESCO Ambassadors, participants in the third edition of the Leadership Training Program for Peace and Security, to participate in its award for the most innovative youth initiatives for peace.

    The competition aims to enable the ICESCO Young Ambassadors to put into practice the knowledge acquired during the training program and to benefit from their exchange with inspiring leaders to present projects and initiatives in various fields of peace-building, including education, culture, science, artificial intelligence and climate change, in line with ICESCO’s “Peace 360°” approach, which relies on a multidisciplinary methodology to train and mobilize young leaders.

    The projects and initiatives submitted will be subject to rigorous evaluation criteria, as in the two previous editions of the competition; 45 projects were evaluated by a multidisciplinary jury made up of ICESCO experts as well as external experts and young peace ambassadors from previous editions. The most innovative initiatives received financial and technical support from ICESCO for their implementation.

    ICESCO adopts a holistic “360° Peace” approach to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, taking into account the diversity of factors that contribute to peace-building. This approach is applied at strategic, academic and societal levels.

    To view the nomination criteria, please click on the following link and download the application form: https://icesco.org/21c5

    Please complete the form and send it by e-mail to the following address: shs@icesco.org
    The form must be sent before 31 March 2025, 23:59 GMT.

    ICESCO Hosts 50 Students from Morocco’s Al Akhawayn University to Discover the Organization’s Initiatives and Programs

    The Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), in partnership with the Federation of Universities of the Islamic World (FUIW), welcomed 50 students from Morocco’s Al Akhawayn University on Friday. The visit, part of the university’s “Genz Careers in Rabat” program, aimed to bridge the gap between academia and the professional world by showcasing ICESCO’s dynamic initiatives.

    During the tour, ICESCO experts delivered in-depth presentations on key programs designed to empower young people. Highlights included the Leadership Training for Peace and Security Program (LTIPS), the “My Thesis in 1000 Words” initiative—geared toward enhancing PhD candidates’ academic communication—and the Young Professionals Program, which provides two years of specialized training within various departments and centers.

    Additionally, the sessions shed light on ICESCO’s broader efforts in entrepreneurship, innovation, artificial intelligence, and space science, along with initiatives from its Education and Culture sectors. Experts emphasized how participation in these programs can equip young talents with the skills needed to thrive in a global, specialized environment.

    At the conclusion of the visit, the students expressed their gratitude to the ICESCO and FUIW teams, praising the opportunity to explore the organization’s diverse sectors and pioneering programs that serve its Member States.