The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation’s Standing Committee on Scientific and Technological Cooperation (OIC-COMSTECH) and the Arab League Educational, Cultural and Scientific Organisation (ALECSO) have signed a two-year executive programme for 2027–2028 to expand scientific, technological and academic cooperation across Arab and Islamic countries. The agreement was signed in Islamabad by OIC-COMSTECH Coordinator General Professor Dr. Muhammad Iqbal Choudhary and ALECSO Director General Professor Dr. Mohamed Ould Amar during a strategic dialogue at the COMSTECH Secretariat. Minister of State for Federal Education and Professional Training Wajiha Qamar attended the ceremony, alongside representatives from diplomatic missions, universities, research institutions and government organisations.
The programme establishes a framework for institutional coordination, expert exchanges, joint scientific activities and technical cooperation. It also aims to mobilise partner organisations and financial resources to support collaborative projects. Implementation will be monitored through periodic meetings, annual progress reports and a final evaluation. The partnership is expected to connect ALECSO’s academic and scientific institutions in Arab countries with COMSTECH’s network of universities, research institutions and centres of excellence across OIC member states.
Artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, digital transformation, climate resilience, water conservation, space sciences, biotechnology, healthcare, renewable energy and green technologies have been identified as potential areas of cooperation. Speaking at the event, Wajiha Qamar highlighted the need for coordinated research and academic partnerships to address shared challenges, including climate change, food and water insecurity, emerging diseases and energy transitions. She also called for expanded scholarships, fellowships, professional training and mentorship opportunities for young researchers, with greater participation of women in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
The programme also aims to develop stronger connections among universities, laboratories, scientists and young researchers across Arab and Islamic countries. Choudhary emphasised the importance of supporting researchers affected by conflict and proposed expanding fellowships for women scientists and promoting inclusive education. ALECSO Director General Mohamed Ould Amar described the programme as a practical step towards achieving shared objectives in education, culture, science and technology. The two organisations intend to translate the agreement into measurable activities, with progress reviews designed to assess implementation and identify further opportunities for collaboration.
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