JEDDAH: The inaugural coordination meeting for Islamic universities and the subsidiary, specialized, and affiliated institutions of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation was held at the OIC headquarters in Jeddah on Tuesday.
The OIC boasts a network of 5 affiliated and subsidiary universities in five member countries. These institutions include the Islamic University of Technology, located in Bangladesh, the International Islamic University, located in Malaysia; the Islamic University, situated in Uganda; the Islamic University of Niger, located in Niger; and King Faisal University, situated in Chad. These universities are the mainstay of the organization’s endeavors in the realm of higher education.
In his speech, OIC Secretary-General Hissein Brahim Taha stressed on the important role that universities play in shaping the future of societies.
He said that through their contributions to education and scientific research, these institutions are instrumental in developing and advancing communities.
He emphasized that the impact of universities is particularly important in the formation of young people, who represent the future of our societies.
Hissein Taha expressed unwavering support for Islamic universities on behalf of the OIC.
He asserted that active participation in the events and initiatives taken by these institutions is indicative of the desire to foster constructive interaction between the OIC and the higher education sector.
The Secretary-General stressed on the importance of the current state of the Islamic world, underlining the potential for fruitful cooperation to bring exceptional ideas to fruition and foster new opportunities for the youth of the Islamic world.
Challenges Faced by OIC Member Countries
He acknowledged the pressing challenges facing the education sector within member countries, which necessitate intensive cooperation and a shared vision to surmount the difficulties facing OIC nations. Climate change, poverty, keeping pace with rapid technological advancements, adapting to labor-market conditions, and prioritizing education, especially girls’ education, are among the most pressing challenges, he said.
The Secretary-General underlined the significance of addressing these challenges and prioritizing education to foster growth and development within OIC nations.
He stressed the need to augment collaboration and synergy among the OIC’s institutions, particularly universities, to surmount these challenges.
