The Ministry of Awqaf signs a memorandum of understanding with Al-Azhar University to enhance the role of the Guidance Institute.

Yemen’s Ministry of Awqaf Signs Agreement with Al-Azhar University

Strengthening Academic Collaboration

Today, Yemen’s Ministry of Awqaf and Guidance signed a memorandum of understanding with Al-Azhar University in Egypt. This agreement aims to enhance scientific and academic cooperation with the Higher Institute for Guidance and Counseling.

Key Signatories

The memorandum was signed by Dr. Mohammed Shabeeb, Yemen’s Minister of Awqaf and Guidance, and Sheikh Kamal Bahramz, Dean of the Higher Institute for Guidance and Counseling. From Al-Azhar University, Dr. Salama Dawood, the university’s president, and Dr. Mahmoud Sidiq, Vice President for Graduate Studies and Scientific Research, also participated in the signing.

Objectives of the Agreement

The memorandum outlines several key areas for collaboration. These include:

• Exchange of Academic Expertise: Both institutions will share knowledge and resources.
• Development of Training Programs: They will create and enhance training initiatives.
• Support for Joint Research Activities: Collaborative research will aim to improve educational standards at the Higher Institute for Guidance and Counseling.

This partnership seeks to leverage Al-Azhar’s extensive experience in disseminating Islamic law and Arabic language studies.

Minister’s Vision for Development

Dr. Shabeeb emphasized that this agreement marks a strategic step toward enhancing the capabilities of the Higher Institute for Guidance and Counseling. He highlighted the importance of providing Yemeni professionals with access to Al-Azhar’s pioneering educational model. This initiative aims to cultivate a new generation of qualified scholars and preachers who can promote values of moderation and dialogue within Yemeni society. This is particularly crucial given the challenges posed by the Houthi militia’s attempts to undermine national identity and incite sectarian division.

Al-Azhar’s Commitment to Yemen

Dr. Salama Dawood, President of Al-Azhar University, acknowledged the special place Yemen holds in the university’s history. He referenced the Prophet Muhammad’s saying, “Faith is Yemeni, and wisdom is Yemeni,” expressing pride in the longstanding academic and historical ties between Al-Azhar and Yemen.

Support for Yemeni Students

During the meeting, Dr. Shabeeb also discussed the situation of Yemeni students studying at Al-Azhar. He explored ways to alleviate any challenges they may face in their academic pursuits.

Acknowledging Al-Azhar’s Role

The Minister praised Al-Azhar’s leadership in promoting knowledge globally. He noted the significant impact Al-Azhar has had on Yemen over the years, particularly through the widespread presence of Azhar-trained teachers who contributed to the country’s educational and intellectual renaissance.

Cultural Ties Between Yemen and Egypt

Dr. Shabeeb emphasized the deep historical and cultural connections between Yemen and Egypt. He expressed the ministry’s commitment to furthering cooperation that benefits moderate religious education.

Cultural Attaché’s Presence

Dr. Hadi Salem Al-Sabban, the Cultural Attaché at the Yemeni Embassy in Egypt, accompanied the Minister during this significant visit.

This partnership between Yemen’s Ministry of Awqaf and Al-Azhar University represents a promising development in fostering educational excellence and cultural exchange.

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