Al Akhawayn University in Morocco (AUI) and the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) have announced the establishment of the ICESCO Ibn Battuta Center for Science Diplomacy. The center, located on AUI's campus in Ifrane, aims to contribute to making science a bridge for cooperation and dialogue between Africa, the Arab world, and Asia. This initiative seeks to strengthen the capacity of ICESCO Member States to mobilize scientific knowledge in support of diplomacy and informed public policymaking.
The ICESCO Ibn Battuta Center for Science Diplomacy will focus on various areas, including training a new generation of diplomats capable of understanding major contemporary scientific issues. It will also develop academic and scientific cooperation projects and produce scientific expertise for ICESO and its Member States. The center's areas of focus will include climate change, food security, water, as well as AI and other emerging scientific fields that shape science diplomacy.
Science diplomacy is emerging as a new area of international cooperation, with the center aiming to bring together researchers, students, diplomats, and policymakers from the Muslim world and other regions. Al Akhawayn University was chosen as the host due to its extensive international cooperation network, developed since its opening in 1995. The university has signed bilateral agreements with 312 partner universities in 54 countries.
Al Akhawayn University's international connections include membership in several university networks, such as the International Association of University Presidents and the Global Liberal Arts Alliance. The university's faculty comprises an average of 40% international professors, representing 56 nationalities. Since its establishment, 9,246 students have participated in international exchange and mobility programs.
The ICESCO Ibn Battuta Center for Science Diplomacy will leverage Al Akhawayn University's existing relationships and programs to foster joint efforts and address global challenges. The center's establishment is a significant step towards promoting science diplomacy and cooperation between Africa, the Arab world, and Asia. ICESCO and Al Akhawayn University announced the center's launch on September 28, 2026.
The center's focus on science diplomacy aligns with the growing need for interdisciplinary approaches to address pressing global issues. By bringing together experts from various fields, the center aims to develop innovative solutions to these challenges. The partnership between ICESCO and Al Akhawayn University is expected to have a positive impact on the development of science diplomacy in the region.
The ICESCO Ibn Battuta Center for Science Diplomacy is named after the famous Moroccan explorer Ibn Battuta, who traveled extensively throughout Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. The center's mission is to build on his legacy of cultural exchange and cooperation. With its establishment, the center is poised to become a hub for science diplomacy and international cooperation in the region.
Key points
- The ICESCO Ibn Battuta Center for Science Diplomacy aims to strengthen the capacity of ICESCO Member States to mobilize scientific knowledge in support of diplomacy and informed public policymaking.
- The center will focus on training a new generation of diplomats capable of understanding major contemporary scientific issues.
- Al Akhawayn University was chosen as the host due to its extensive international cooperation network and experience in fostering global partnerships.
