University of Sharjah Engages in UNESCO Conference Focused on Knowledge Sharing

The University of Sharjah's Sharjah International Foundation for the History of Arab and Muslim Sciences (SIFHAMS) took part in the third International Conference of the UNESCO Chair, held at Ibn Haldun University in Istanbul. The gathering emphasized global knowledge sharing, attracting scholars from various nations to discuss the exchange of ideas and scientific insights between the Islamic world and Latin America.

Dubbed “Transcontinental Exchange of Knowledge and Building Scientific Bridges between the Islamic World and Latin America,” the event was co-organized by Ibn Haldun University’s Alliance of Civilisations Institute, SIFHAMS, and UNESCO Chair at the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM). Its goal was to delve into historical ties and foster collaboration in fields like science, culture, and education.

In his keynote address, Prof. Mesut Idriz, SIFHAMS Director, detailed the historical routes through which knowledge transitioned from the Islamic realm to Latin America. He reflected on the scholarly advancements of Al-Andalus and the role of Muslim navigators in early mapping and exploration. Prof. Idriz underlined the historical significance of such contributions and advocated for acknowledging the Muslim impact on the “discovery of the New World.”

He called upon institutions to back joint research initiatives and establish platforms for emerging scholars from both areas, spotlighting vital domains like humanities, heritage digitization, and cultural conservation. By exchanging expertise, academics can enhance the scientific and cultural relationships between the Islamic world and Latin America.

Delegates from the University of Sharjah presented their research on themes including digital heritage preservation, scientific diplomacy, intercultural dialogue, and astronomy. These insights underscored the university’s proactive involvement in facilitating knowledge exchange and nurturing international cooperation. Prof. Jairo Lugo-Ocando, Dean of the College of Communication, and Prof. Nadia Al Hosani, Dean of the College of Fine Arts and Design, moderated discussions on the roles of scholarships and knowledge sharing in boosting scientific and cultural engagement.

Prof. Idriz also led a session titled “Entangled Histories: Islamic-Latin Encounters and Cross-Continental Knowledge Flows,” examining the cultural and economic interactions between these two worlds. Scholars engaged in dialogues on how these exchanges have shaped relationships, influenced scientific progress, and imposed a lasting cultural legacy.

Overall, the conference provided a valuable venue for forging stronger connections between international scholars. It fostered collaborative research, promoted deeper cultural understanding, and recognized the intertwined history between the Islamic world and Latin America. The involvement of the University of Sharjah signifies its dedication to knowledge advancement and nurturing global partnerships in education and heritage.