MBRF Delegation Enhances Bilateral Ties With ICESCO For Global Knowledge Advancement

In a significant move towards bolstering knowledge advancement, the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation (MBRF) delegation, led by CEO Jamal bin Huwaireb, recently visited the Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation (ICESCO) in Rabat, Morocco. The visit, warmly hosted by Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of ICESCO, aimed at discussing strategies to enhance bilateral collaboration between the two entities.

This collaboration is rooted in an agreement signed in March 2023, emphasizing the importance of leveraging mutual expertise to strengthen cooperation. A primary focus of this partnership is to advance knowledge and enhance the capabilities of ICESCO’s member nations to improve their standings in the Global Knowledge Index (GKI). The GKI plays a crucial role in evaluating indicators, conducting research, and promoting studies related to knowledge on a global scale.

Dr. Hany Torky, Chief Technical Adviser and Project Manager of UNDP’s Knowledge Project, participated in discussions that highlighted the challenges outlined in the GKI report. These discussions underscored the necessity for member states to consistently update their data to reflect advancements within sectors monitored by the index.

The visit also covered preparations for the participation of GKI officials at the upcoming Conference of Ministers of Education in the Islamic World, scheduled for October in Muscat, Sultanate of Oman. Additionally, possibilities for ICESCO’s involvement in the next edition of the ‘Knowledge Summit’ in Dubai were explored. The discussions extended to organizing workshops for experts from ICESCO member states on the operational mechanisms of the GKI.

The MBRF delegation emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts and accurate data collection for issuing an authentic annual index report. They also highlighted exchanging expertise and experiences as key components of successful cooperation.

"As the knowledge sector rapidly evolves, collaboration among diverse stakeholders has become crucial," stated Jamal bin Huwaireb. He underscored this visit as a reflection of MBRF’s dedication to fostering cooperation with institutions involved in knowledge development amidst escalating global challenges.

He further added that this visit continues MBRF’s efforts to advance knowledge development and stressed the importance of empowering youth for sustainable development. The collaboration aims at improving ICESCO member states' performance in the Global Knowledge Index while promoting global development and bridging knowledge divides.

At the conclusion of their visit, both parties reiterated the importance of strengthening collaboration and coordination among MBRF, ICESCO, and various member states. This marks a significant step towards creating strategic partnerships in knowledge advancement and highlights MBRF’s commitment to enhancing member states' capabilities towards a future that actively promotes sustainable development.

With inputs from WAM