RIYADH: On Monday, the Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural institution, or ICESCO, a specialized institution under the auspices of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, established a Chair for Girls, Women, and Society at Omar Bongo University in Libreville, Gabon.
According to ICESCO, the chair intends to promote scientific and educational research on gender issues and women’s rights, contribute to the capacity building of women and girls, and support peace-building efforts through the development of multidisciplinary study programs.
This is part of an ICESCO-Gabon collaboration initiative for 2023-2027.
Dr. Salem bin Mohammed Al-Malik, Director-General of ICESCO, lauded Gabon’s efforts to consolidate and promote women’s and girls’ rights in a taped speech presented during the launch ceremony.
According to Al-Malik, the national strategy for promoting women’s rights and achieving gender equality, which was launched in 2020, has contributed significantly to substantial development.
He reaffirmed ICESCO’s commitment for this cause, noting that the chair will help to break down preconceptions in order to achieve the required change and establish a just and equal society for current and future generations.
The chair’s unveiling coincides with Gabon’s National Women’s Day, according to Patrick Mouguiama-Daouda, minister of higher education and head of the Gabonese National Commission for Education, Science, and Culture.
He stated that the Gabonese government is still committed to enhancing girls’ and women’s living and working conditions in society.
Mesmin-Noel Soumaho, Dean of Omar Bongo University, stated that the chair would be used to examine and evaluate government policies targeted at eliminating gender disparity.
On March 31, the ICESCO delegation and Gabonese authorities met to discuss the implementation of collaborative programs and initiatives.
The ICESCO/Gabon Action Plan 2023-2027 aims to develop a number of programs and projects in the fields of culture, education, science, technology, and the Arabic language.
It promotes human capital development through strengthening the capacities of women and girls, addressing their issues and concerns, and encouraging peace dialogue.
The action plan intends to increase the value of tangible and intangible cultural heritage in Gabon, integrate technology into educational systems, and train Arabic teachers for non-speakers.
