Latest news with #ScientificandCulturalOrganization


Observer
4 hours ago
- Science
- Observer
Unesco Chair Aflaj contract extended
NIZWA: The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (Unesco) has extended the contract of the Unesco Chair in Aflaj Studies at Nizwa University for another four years under the new name: Unesco Chair in Aflaj Studies and Socio-hydrology. The extension of the contract affirms the scientific role the University of Nizwa plays in documenting traditional and cultural knowledge and its sustainable management, particularly with regard to the Omani aflaj system, an ancient irrigation system that combines environmental, social and cultural aspects. Dr Abdullah bin Saif al Ghafri, Professor of the Unesco Chair in Aflaj Studies and Sociohydrology said: 'The change of the name comes in response to global scientific trends towards socio-hydrology, an interdisciplinary field that studies the relationship between human societies and their water resources. It highlights water management, water justice and the behaviour of individuals and institutions towards water as well as the associated cultural and developmental dimensions. He pointed out that since its launch in 2021, the Unesco Chair in Aflaj Studies has achieved a number of scientific and academic accomplishments including the publication of dozens of research papers in peer-reviewed scientific journals, the introduction of specialised university courses on aflaj, the production of radio and documentary programmes and the provision of field consultations for farmers and aflaj managers. He added that the University of Nizwa has played a pivotal role in supporting the project since its inception, providing basic funding and academic and logistical support, in addition to support from ministries and government agencies, such as the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources, the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, the Diwan of Royal Court, the Oman Water Society, among others. He stated that the Chair continues to expand its network of research collaborations with universities and scientific centres in several countries, including Japan, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, Morocco and Iran. This strengthens its scientific presence internationally and facilitates the exchange of knowledge about traditional water systems. He pointed out that the Omani aflaj system is receiving increasing attention from international researchers, due to its natural sustainability and harmony between humans and the environment. He emphasised that the Chair seeks to become an international centre specialising in socio-hydrology. — ONA

Barnama
3 days ago
- Politics
- Barnama
ASEAN Education Urges Focus On Gaps Affecting Out-of School Children
GENERAL LANGKAWI, June 19 (Bernama) – In the pursuit of a resilient and sustainable ASEAN, it is crucial for member countries to remain attentive to deficits in foundational learning, skills gaps and youth unemployment, which continue to exacerbate the Out-of-School Children and Youth (OOSCY) challenge. Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek, in her welcoming remarks at the ASEAN Ministers of Education and Higher Education Roundtables here, said that with continued support and shared wisdom, ASEAN is collectively able to achieve greater heights in the quest for quality education and prosperity for both individual nations and the bloc as a whole. 'Today's roundtable serves to reaffirm our shared resolve that every child and young person, especially those currently out of school, must be afforded equitable access to quality education and the opportunity to play a meaningful role in society. This convening offers an invaluable platform to share experiences, reflect on our collective progress and explore innovative approaches to bridging long-standing educational disparities. 'As Malaysia assumes the ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025, we are profoundly aware of the responsibility that this role entails. Guided by the vision of a People-Oriented and People-Centred ASEAN, we remain steadfast in our commitment to inclusive development and ensuring that no one is left behind, particularly our children and youths who remain outside the formal education system,' she said. Fadhlina also emphasised that, the ASEAN Higher Education Ministers Roundtable on 'Envisioning the Next Decade and Beyond', which aims to outline a collaborative roadmap towards a future-ready education ecosystem, is equally significant in today's session. She said in light of the intense technological and industrial transformations shaping the region, it is essential for higher education institutions to evolve and become more inclusive, agile and responsive to real-world demands. 'By enhancing cooperation between governments, academia and industry, we not only strive to equip our youth for the jobs of the future, but also build more inclusive pathways for OOSCY to re-enter education and contribute actively to ASEAN's shared prosperity. Bridging this gap is fundamental to nurturing an ASEAN that is innovative, cohesive and truly leaves no one behind,' she said. Fadhlina also extended her condolences to all those affected by the devastating earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand in March. Also present were Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir, as well as ministers and senior officials responsible for education and higher education from ASEAN member states and Timor-Leste, representatives from United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO).


See - Sada Elbalad
3 days ago
- Politics
- See - Sada Elbalad
ICESCO, Malaysia Discuss Partnership for Inclusive, Sustainable Education
Mohamed Mandour As part of his participation in the annual ASEAN Education Ministers Meeting, Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), held a bilateral meeting with Dr. Fadhlina Sidek, Malaysia's Minister of Education. The meeting focused on exploring ways to enhance cooperation between the two sides in the fields of education, innovation, and heritage preservation. Her Excellency the Minister presented key initiatives of the Malaysian Ministry of Education, which have made the country's education system a comprehensive model for achieving the fourth Sustainable Development Goal (SDG 4). She noted that education in Malaysia is guided by a holistic vision that values quality, equity, and sustainability. For his part, Dr. AlMalik commended Malaysia's educational experience and stressed the importance of strengthening international partnerships to achieve inclusive education for all. He also highlighted ICESCO's initiatives in this regard, including its ongoing cooperation with the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) in support of the international PISA assessments. Dr. AlMalik invited Dr. Sidek to participate in the third Ministerial Conference on PISA, which will be organized by ICESCO in Samarkand in November 2025, and is considered an important platform for exchanging expertise and encouraging educational policy reform in Member States. The meeting also touched on the Greening Education initiative, launched by ICESCO in collaboration with the University of Cambridge, which aims to develop long-term strategic visions in the field of education. Dr. AlMalik also underscored the importance of integrating values of peace into school curricula and embedding them into the educational policies of Member States. The two sides also discussed the issue of girls' education in Afghanistan. Dr. AlMalik stressed the need for Member States to stand in solidarity and support ICESCO's efforts to ensure Afghan girls' right to education, affirming that this is a humanitarian and moral obligation that requires concrete cooperation from all. read more Gold prices rise, 21 Karat at EGP 3685 NATO's Role in Israeli-Palestinian Conflict US Expresses 'Strong Opposition' to New Turkish Military Operation in Syria Shoukry Meets Director-General of FAO Lavrov: confrontation bet. nuclear powers must be avoided News Iran Summons French Ambassador over Foreign Minister Remarks News Aboul Gheit Condemns Israeli Escalation in West Bank News Greek PM: Athens Plays Key Role in Improving Energy Security in Region News One Person Injured in Explosion at Ukrainian Embassy in Madrid News China Launches Largest Ever Aircraft Carrier Sports Former Al Zamalek Player Ibrahim Shika Passes away after Long Battle with Cancer Lifestyle Get to Know 2025 Eid Al Adha Prayer Times in Egypt Business Fear & Greed Index Plummets to Lowest Level Ever Recorded amid Global Trade War Arts & Culture Zahi Hawass: Claims of Columns Beneath the Pyramid of Khafre Are Lies News Flights suspended at Port Sudan Airport after Drone Attacks Videos & Features Video: Trending Lifestyle TikToker Valeria Márquez Shot Dead during Live Stream News Shell Unveils Cost-Cutting, LNG Growth Plan Technology 50-Year Soviet Spacecraft 'Kosmos 482' Crashes into Indian Ocean News 3 Killed in Shooting Attack in Thailand


Observer
13-06-2025
- General
- Observer
Oman lauded for hydrology efforts in Paris
PARIS: The Sultanate of Oman was recognised for its active contributions to the International Hydrological Programme (IHP) and six decades of commitment to advancing water sciences during a ceremony held at the headquarters of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (Unesco) in Paris, France. This recognition highlights the efforts of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources through the Omani National Committee for the International Hydrological Programme in fostering effective partnerships with international organisations. These efforts align with Oman's vision for sustainable and comprehensive development of natural resources, particularly water, and enhance regional and international cooperation. This move reflects global appreciation for Oman's role in water resource management. The commemorative shield was received by Sulaiman bin Khalfan al Mabsali, Deputy Permanent Representative of Oman to Unesco. - ONA


See - Sada Elbalad
12-06-2025
- Business
- See - Sada Elbalad
ICESCO Participates in UNESCO's GEMR Advisory Board Meeting
Mohamed Mandour The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) took part in the 10th Meeting of the Advisory Board for the Global Education Monitoring Report (GEMR), held at UNESCO headquarters in Paris. ICESCO was represented by Faizah Alaoui, Education Sector expert, who joined other members to exchange insights and offer strategic guidance on global education issues. The meeting addressed ways to improve education quality and develop effective education policies, with a focus on preparing young leaders and strengthening leadership skills in schools. Working sessions also reviewed outlines of upcoming editions of the report, future orientations, and strategies to enhance the report's global influence in shaping education policy and decision-making. The GEMR's Advisory Board brings together representatives from UN agencies, bilateral donors, NGOs, civil society networks, and education experts from across the Global South. read more Gold prices rise, 21 Karat at EGP 3685 NATO's Role in Israeli-Palestinian Conflict US Expresses 'Strong Opposition' to New Turkish Military Operation in Syria Shoukry Meets Director-General of FAO Lavrov: confrontation bet. nuclear powers must be avoided News Iran Summons French Ambassador over Foreign Minister Remarks News Aboul Gheit Condemns Israeli Escalation in West Bank News Greek PM: Athens Plays Key Role in Improving Energy Security in Region News One Person Injured in Explosion at Ukrainian Embassy in Madrid News China Launches Largest Ever Aircraft Carrier Sports Former Al Zamalek Player Ibrahim Shika Passes away after Long Battle with Cancer Lifestyle Get to Know 2025 Eid Al Adha Prayer Times in Egypt Business Fear & Greed Index Plummets to Lowest Level Ever Recorded amid Global Trade War Arts & Culture Zahi Hawass: Claims of Columns Beneath the Pyramid of Khafre Are Lies News Flights suspended at Port Sudan Airport after Drone Attacks News Shell Unveils Cost-Cutting, LNG Growth Plan Videos & Features Video: Trending Lifestyle TikToker Valeria Márquez Shot Dead during Live Stream Technology 50-Year Soviet Spacecraft 'Kosmos 482' Crashes into Indian Ocean News 3 Killed in Shooting Attack in Thailand