University Of Sharjah Hosts Symposium On Intellectual Integrity To Promote Tolerance And Coexistence

The University of Sharjah's College of Sharia and Islamic Studies recently hosted a symposium titled "The Sustainability of Knowledge Security." This event aimed to promote Islamic values and raise awareness about protecting minds from extremism. The gathering included Dr. Abdullah Belheif Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Consultative Council, along with university officials, faculty, researchers, and students from various fields.

The symposium emphasised the importance of intellectual security in fostering tolerance, coexistence, and moderation while countering extremist ideologies. Organisers stressed the need for collaboration between state institutions and research centres to establish legal and ethical foundations that support the UAE's principles of tolerance and non-violence.

Professor Qutb Al-Raisouni, Dean of the College of Sharia and Islamic Studies, highlighted that intellectual security is crucial for sustainable social development. He noted that it helps preserve cultural and religious identity. The forum regularly organises lectures, workshops, and conferences to shield youth from radical ideas.

Dr. Abdulrahman Abdullatif, Director of the Forum, stated that the symposium aligns with the University of Sharjah’s mission to advance research. It aims to provide a safe intellectual environment promoting moderation and balance. In his keynote address, Dr. Abdullah Belheif Al Nuaimi underscored universities' role in producing and safeguarding knowledge.

Dr. Al Nuaimi also highlighted the responsibility of national media in promoting sound ideas. He advocated for a national observatory to monitor deviant ideologies and called for a unified response against extremism.

The event concluded with Prof Yousef Haik, Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, honouring Dr Al Nuaimi and Dr Mahdi Qais Al-Janabi for their contributions to advancing the forum’s mission. Dr Al-Janabi is an Associate Professor at the College of Sharia and Islamic Studies and a former director of the forum.

This academic gathering served as a platform to reinforce cooperation among various sectors in promoting intellectual security. It highlighted the ongoing efforts needed to protect society from extremist influences while fostering an environment of peace and understanding within the UAE.

With inputs from WAM