MBRF-organised Youth Knowledge Forum commences in Egypt
It is being organised by the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation (MBRF), in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Egypt's Ministry of Youth and Sports (MOYS) through the Youth Knowledge Office, under the patronage of Dr. Mostafa Madbouly, Prime Minister of Egypt.
The opening ceremony was attended by Dr. Ashraf Sobhy, Egypt's Minister of Youth and Sports, along with several other ministers and senior officials, including Dr. Khaled Abdel Ghaffar, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Health and Population; Dr. Ahmed Fouad Hanno, Minister of Culture; and Counsellor Mahmoud Fawzy, Minister of Parliamentary and Legal Affairs.
The inaugural session was also graced by the presence of Jamal Bin Huwaireb, CEO of MBRF; Dr. Mohamed Sami Abdel Sadek, President of Cairo University; and Eng. Hany Torky, Project Manager of the Knowledge Project at UNDP, as well as a distinguished group of partners and experts. Furthermore, attendees enjoyed a vibrant lineup of musical and artistic performances by the 'Percussion' troupe.
Dr. Ashraf Sobhy stressed that as the host of the Forum's fourth edition, Egypt has demonstrated its strong commitment to investing in human capital and capacity building. Moreover, he stated that the knowledge economy is the backbone of the nation's ongoing development efforts.
He further stated: 'The forum serves as a dynamic platform for impactful dialogue and youth policymaking, redefining benchmarks of how government institutions should engage with youth in an era of digital and knowledge transformation. Through such initiatives, we strive to enhance the creativity, awareness, and leadership qualities of Arab youth, since empowering them today is fundamental to building a cohesive society and a sustainable, competitive economy.'
Jamal Bin Huwaireb, CEO of MBRF, expressed his delight at the Forum's return to Cairo, following the success of last year's edition. He further underscored that Arab youth empowerment remains a cornerstone of the Foundation's strategic vision.
Meanwhile, Eng. Hany Torky, Project Manager of UNDP's Knowledge Project, emphasised that the world's greatest challenge today is not a lack of professional opportunities, but a growing skill gap, which is hindering individuals' ability to keep pace with digital transformation and artificial intelligence.
Following the opening, the first session titled 'Knowledge Economy and Human Development' was moderated by Mostafa Magdy, Assistant Minister of Youth and Sports for Strategic Affairs and Information, and a member of the Technical Secretariat of the Ministerial Group for Human Development. The session explored the importance of formulating a comprehensive vision for the knowledge economy and examined the role of Egypt's development policies in supporting the same.
The event also featured a second session titled 'Formulating Development Policies in the Era of the Knowledge Economy,' which was moderated by Fathi Emad, Director of the Egyptian Knowledge Youth Office. The session facilitated discussions on enhancing public policies, in line with global shifts in knowledge and innovation.
The session witnessed the participation of Dr. Ashraf Sobhy, Minister of Youth and Sports; Dr. Ahmed Fouad Hanno, Minister of Culture; Jamal Bin Huwaireb, CEO of MBRF; and Dr. Mohamed Sami Abdel Sadek, President of Cairo University. Together, they outlined Egypt's future vision for strengthening the knowledge economy, emphasising the need to invest in human capital while fostering robust collaboration between the government and other institutions to drive knowledge-based development.
On the first day, the Forum facilitated six specialized panel discussions addressing a variety of key topics, including strategies for advancing the knowledge economy in Egypt, the role of international institutions in fostering a knowledge-friendly environment, the transformation of education to meet the needs of the modern era, artificial intelligence as a key driver of development, and the impact of misinformation on the economy and society.
The sessions attracted wide participation from a group of leading executives and experts from prestigious organizations such as Microsoft, Uber, and Blocks 17, in addition to prominent academic and thought leaders.
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Sharjah 24
10 hours ago
- Sharjah 24
Arab Parliament for the Child holds session on cultural identity
Cultural identity theme affirms commitment to Arab heritage The session, titled 'The Cultural Identity of the Arab Child', reaffirmed the Arab Parliament for the Child's commitment to instilling cultural and civilisational belonging in the hearts of the emerging generation and enhancing the presence of the Arabic language, along with authentic customs and traditions, in the face of cross-cultural challenges seen globally. High-level patronage and Arab support for children's empowerment The session was held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and with the support of Ahmed Aboul Gheit, Secretary-General of the League of Arab States. This reflects unified Arab support to empower children to freely express themselves and participate in societal and humanitarian issues within robust institutional and parliamentary frameworks. Omani child chairs session to promote youth leadership The session was chaired by Elias Al-Maani from the Sultanate of Oman, President of the Arab Parliament for the Child, reaffirming the Parliament's approach to enabling children to assume leadership responsibilities during parliamentary sessions, and to refine their discussion and expression skills while promoting initiative and participation. Secretary-General stresses urgency of identity dialogue The session began with a speech by Ayman Othman Al-Barout, Secretary-General of the Arab Parliament for the Child, who welcomed the attendees and emphasised the importance of raising the issue of cultural identity during this critical stage of Arab childhood awareness. He said: 'The question of identity is no longer a cultural luxury; it has become an existential necessity to protect the self from dissolution in a fast-changing world. We believe that cultivating this awareness must begin in childhood, as envisioned by His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, who made the child's development a priority more than five decades ago.' Al-Barout added that the Parliament today serves as a unified Arab platform for promoting identity and developing children's skills through training, empowerment, and active participation. He highlighted the success of the Child Parliamentary Leadership Diploma, organised in collaboration with the University of Sharjah, as an inspiring model for participant development. President of the Parliament reaffirms Arab identity Elias Al-Maani, President of the Arab Parliament for the Child, delivered a speech expressing his pride in holding the session in 'Sharjah of Arabism.' He declared: 'We proclaim from under this dome: our identity is our banner, our compass towards progress without compromising our authenticity... Today, we carry the message of generations, stand confidently on the soil of history, and extend our hands to shape the future with our culture, language, and values.' Parliamentarians highlight language, media and education roles The session witnessed strong engagement from members, who presented diverse contributions addressing the importance of preserving the Arabic language, and the role of the family, school, and media in safeguarding cultural identity and confronting digital and foreign cultural challenges. Several speakers stressed that the Arabic language is the backbone of identity and that a child's connection to their mother tongue must be strengthened through educational curricula and cultural activities. Others pointed to the importance of developing media content tailored to children that reflects Arab values and presents positive role models in an engaging and safe environment. Joint recommendations call for pan-Arab action The members of the session affirmed that preserving the cultural identity of the Arab child can only be achieved through joint and organised Arab efforts, stemming from a shared vision aimed at safeguarding the Arabic language, culture, and collective consciousness of future generations. In this context, a set of purposeful recommendations was presented, most notably: the development of a dedicated Arab digital platform for children that offers interactive content to strengthen the Arabic language and promote cultural identity, as well as a proposal to establish an Arab National Day for Cultural Identity, followed by an annual week in schools and community centres to instil a sense of belonging in young people. Creative content and awards to support cultural values The recommendations also highlighted the importance of supporting the production of creative content such as stories, films and games that embody Arab values. They proposed launching a dedicated award for Arab childhood in the field of cultural identity, to honour individual and institutional initiatives that contribute to this vital area. 'The Arab child does not ask for much… only to see themselves in their stories, to hear their voice in their language, and to grow up proud of who they are.' Folk traditions and digital tools to strengthen heritage Speakers also stressed the need to connect children with their heritage through art, music, folktales, and national occasions, given their significant role in reinforcing a sense of belonging. They called for the creation of specialised Arabic-language digital educational platforms that align with the times and nourish identity rather than diminish it. Insight from Mauritania: heritage as a living practice Parliamentarian Sidi Mohamed from Mauritania emphasised that preserving the cultural identity of the Arab child is not a luxury of thought but an existential necessity. He warned that nations which forgo the identity of their children are essentially burying their own history. He referred to Mauritania's continued use of traditional educational tools like the wooden tablet—not due to technical limitations, but out of a deep-rooted commitment to heritage. He advocated for integrating traditional heritage into school curricula and for the enhanced role of media and theatre in fostering belonging and instilling pride in the Arabic language and history. He also stressed that Arabic should be associated with joy and creativity, rather than with heavy memorisation and exam anxiety. Libyan perspective: identity as the foundation of character Parliamentarian Faraj Omar Faraj Al-Tekko from Libya noted that identity is not merely a slogan or cultural symbol, but the essence that shapes a child's thinking, behaviour, and personality. He called for the creation of an educational and cultural environment that nurtures the child's awareness of their identity and opens creative doors through the Arabic language and authentic values. He also recommended developing contemporary, engaging Arabic media content that presents stories, heritage, and arts in an interactive way that strengthens children's connection to their identity and encourages pride in it. Qatari view: a flexible, rooted identity Parliamentarian Maryam Al-Namlan from Qatar stated that the first step in protecting cultural identity is to make it adaptable to global changes, without compromising its roots. She emphasised the need to enable Arab children to engage confidently with other cultures without losing themselves, so they can interact with the world while preserving their civilisational uniqueness. Lebanese concern: cultural erosion through globalisation Parliamentarian Joya Adel Al-Shabab from Lebanon warned of the danger Arab children face in losing their identity due to globalisation, conflict, and distancing from their mother tongue. She called for the inclusion of educational subjects that introduce children to Arab heritage, art, and history, as well as the production of media content broadcast via modern platforms in a style that resonates with children's emotions and strengthens their connection to their culture. She also proposed organising cultural exchange programmes among children in Arab countries to enhance interaction and belonging. Jordanian voice: language and culture as memory and pride Parliamentarian Rabia Ibrahim Abu Rumman from Jordan asserted that identity is not merely a dialect or traditional attire, but an extension of awareness and a deep root in collective memory. She pointed out that Arab children face alienation that makes them believe their origin is backward and that their language is a barrier. From this standpoint, she recommended restoring the status of the Arabic language as a gateway to emotional expression, integrating heritage into education through theatre and music, and establishing an Arab cultural observatory to monitor the quality of content aimed at children. Challenges facing Arab identity Parliamentarian Malek Al-Iskandarani from Lebanon emphasised that Arab identity is facing serious challenges, foremost among them being the weakness of child-focused media, the negative impact of social media, and the effects of conflict and migration. He recommended enriching school curricula with content that deepens a sense of belonging, supporting child-friendly media in strong and engaging Arabic, and organising joint Arab cultural camps to promote cultural interaction among Arab children. Digital openness and rooted traditions Parliamentarian Fajr Al-Dhari from Bahrain affirmed that cultural identity is in real danger today due to digital openness and the abundance of diverse content. She highlighted the importance of embedding values and traditions in children's daily lives. She reviewed Bahrain's efforts in developing curricula and heritage-based activities and recommended leveraging social media to spread authentic Arab concepts, linking technology with heritage through Arabic educational games, and launching Arab competitions in poetry, drawing, and writing. Promoting critical awareness Parliamentarian Mohamed Alaa Al-Makssour from Morocco stated that cultural identity represents a nation's history and roots and is a source of cohesion and contribution. In the face of globalisation, he stressed the need to promote conscious openness rooted in discernment, critical thinking, and analysis rather than passive consumption. He called for a stronger role for families, schools and media in protecting identity, producing attractive Arabic-language content, and fostering critical thinking in children to make them confident in their roots and capable of presenting their culture positively to the world. Shared responsibility and national celebration Parliamentarian Sheikh Humaid bin Khalid Al Qasimi from the United Arab Emirates noted that cultural identity is not a choice but a fundamental right of every Arab child. He stressed that safeguarding it is a collective responsibility that requires coordinated Arab action. He praised Sharjah's role in supporting childhood and culture and proposed the adoption of an Arab National Day for Cultural Identity, followed by a week in schools and community centres, and the launch of a dedicated award in cultural identity to encourage outstanding initiatives and foster belonging across generations. Modern tools for heritage preservation Parliamentarian Al-Afra bint Saif Al-Awfiya from the Sultanate of Oman described Arab cultural identity as a living entity that evolves and reflects the uniqueness of each community. However, it is threatened by globalisation and media-led alienation. She asserted that defending identity does not mean isolation, but rather confident openness. She recommended integrating identity into the curriculum through a dedicated subject and launching interactive apps to introduce children to their language, customs and traditions in an engaging and contemporary way. Gratitude and commitment to the future At the end of the interventions, the President of the Arab Parliament for the Child expressed his thanks to all members for their valuable contributions. He stressed that the discussions represented a genuine step toward a shared collective awareness of the importance of protecting Arab cultural identity among children. New business The third item of the session was dedicated to new developments, including the announcement of the appointment of Riam Mohamed from the Republic of Iraq to the Activities Committee, succeeding former member Roaa Moayyad. Members were also informed that the date and theme of the next session would be determined later by the Secretariat-General. Conclusion and future vision At the conclusion of the session, the Parliament President expressed deep appreciation to the Secretariat-General for organising the session and to all participants for their engagement and constructive proposals. He reaffirmed the Parliament's commitment to supporting childhood issues and reinforcing the authentic Arab presence of children in every field, stating: 'We are the children of this nation, and we will remain loyal to its history and carry the responsibility of its future.' With this declaration, the second session of the fourth cycle of the Arab Parliament for the Child concluded, reaffirming that cultural identity is the gateway to development and the foundation for building an Arab citizen capable of contributing and competing on a global stage.
Gulf Today
a day ago
- Gulf Today
Inspired by France, UN's July 28 meet to buttress push for Palestinian solution
Fired by France's imminent recognition of Palestinian statehood, UN members meet next week to breathe life into the push for a two-state solution as Israel, expected to be absent, presses its war in Gaza. Days before the July 28-30 conference on fostering Israeli and Palestinian states living peacefully side-by-side to be co-chaired by Riyadh and Paris, French President Emmanuel Macron announced that France would formally recognize the State of Palestine in September. His declaration "will breathe new life into a conference that seemed destined to irrelevance," said Richard Gowan, an analyst at International Crisis Group. "Macron's announcement changes the game. Other participants will be scrabbling to decide if they should also declare an intent to recognize Palestine." According to an AFP database, at least 142 of the 193 UN member states – including France – now recognize the Palestinian state proclaimed by the Palestinian leadership in exile in 1988. In 1947, a resolution of the UN General Assembly decided on the partition of Palestine, then under a British mandate, into two independent states – one Jewish and the other Arab. Geographically impossible The following year, the State of Israel was proclaimed, and for several decades, the vast majority of UN member states have supported the idea of a two-state solution: Israeli and Palestinian, living side-by-side peacefully and securely. But after more than 21 months of war in Gaza, the ongoing expansion of Israeli settlements in the West Bank, and senior Israeli officials declaring designs to annex occupied territory, it is feared a Palestinian state could be geographically impossible. The war in Gaza started following a deadly attack by Hamas on Israel, which responded with a large-scale military response that has claimed tens of thousands of Palestinian lives. The New York conference is a response to the crisis, with Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa and several dozen ministers from around the world expected to attend. 'No alternative' The meeting comes as a two-state solution is "more threatened than it has ever been (but) even more necessary than before, because we see very clearly that there is no alternative," said a French diplomatic source. Beyond facilitating conditions for recognition of a Palestinian state, the meeting will have three other focuses -- reform of the Palestinian Authority, disarmament of Hamas and its exclusion from Palestinian public life, and normalization of relations with Israel by Arab states that have not yet done so. The diplomatic source warned that no announcement of new normalization deals was expected next week. Ahead of the conference, which was delayed from June, Britain said it would not recognize a Palestinian state unilaterally and would wait for "a wider plan" for peace in the region. Macron has also not yet persuaded Germany to follow suit and recognize a Palestinian state in the short term. Unique opportunity, says Riyad Mansour The conference "offers a unique opportunity to transform international law and the international consensus into an achievable plan and to demonstrate resolve to end the occupation and conflict once and for all, for the benefit of all peoples," said the Palestinian ambassador to the UN Riyad Mansour, calling for "courage" from participants. Israel and the United States will not take part in the meeting. Israel's ambassador to the UN Danny Danon "has announced that Israel will not be taking part in this conference, which doesn't first urgently address the issue of condemning Hamas and returning all of the remaining hostages," according to embassy spokesman Jonathan Harounoff. As international pressure continues to mount on Israel to end nearly two years of war in Gaza, the humanitarian catastrophe in the ravaged coastal territory is expected to dominate speeches by representatives of more than 100 countries as they take to the podium from Monday to Wednesday. Gowan said he expected "very fierce criticism of Israel." Agence France-Presse
Middle East Eye
a day ago
- Middle East Eye
Ziad Rahbani, icon of Lebanese music and theatre, dies at 69
Ziad Rahbani, one of Lebanon's most influential cultural figures and the son of Arab music legend Fairuz, has died at the age of 69. A playwright, composer, and political commentator, Rahbani shaped the landscape of Lebanese theatre and music with his biting wit, leftist and secular politics, and sharp portrayals of his country's fractured society. "On Saturday at 9:00 am [6am GMT], the heart of the great artist and creator Ziad Rahbani stopped beating," said a statement from the Beirut hospital where the artist, who has long suffered from health problems, was being treated. The son of Fairuz, who turned 90 last year, and the late composer Assi Rahbani, Ziad first rose to prominence in the 1970s. He broke away from the romanticism of his parents' work to create art rooted in social critique and everyday struggles. Tributes poured in for the enfant terrible of Lebanese music, whose theatre productions and songs left an enduring mark on generations of Lebanese - many of whom know his lyrics and playscripts by heart. New MEE newsletter: Jerusalem Dispatch Sign up to get the latest insights and analysis on Israel-Palestine, alongside Turkey Unpacked and other MEE newsletters Rahbani was a versatile composer and a pioneer of oriental jazz. He mixed traditional Arabic melodies with jazz, funk and classical influences, creating a unique and instantly recognisable sound. Rahbani composed for Fairuz in her later years, bringing political depth to her repertoire. Throughout Lebanon's civil war (1975-1990) and in the decades that followed, Rahbani's plays became spaces where Lebanese audiences confronted their harsh realities. He often highlighted the hardships of Lebanon's working class. His characters were disillusioned citizens, ex-revolutionaries or everyday people caught in the complexities of Lebanon's political and sectarian struggles. Lebanese diva Fairuz talks to her son, Ziad Rahbani, and Armenian conductor Karen Durgarian during rehearsals prior to their concert in Dubai on 23 January 2003 (AFP) One of his most influential plays, Nazl el-Sourour (Happiness Hotel), is a political satire set in a run-down hotel, where two laid-off workers take the guests hostage in a failed attempt at revolution. Through humour and absurdity, the play critiques class divisions and the hollowness of political slogans in pre-war Lebanon. Another one of his landmark works, the 1980 production Film Ameriki Tawil (A Long American Film), is a satirical portrayal of the civil war, set in an asylum where the patients represent different segments of society. Rahbani articulated a collective frustration and longing for change. For many in Lebanon and across the Arab world, his death marks the loss of a singular voice that never stopped asking uncomfortable questions.
