Post by : Maya Rahman

The Sharjah International Foundation for the History of Arab and Muslim Sciences (SIFHAMS) from the University of Sharjah took part in the third International Conference organized by the UNESCO Chair. Hosted at Ibn Haldun University in Istanbul, the event centered on the theme of global knowledge exchange, bringing together scholars from various nations to explore the transmission of ideas and scientific insights between the Islamic world and Latin America.

This conference, titled “Transcontinental Exchange of Knowledge and Building Scientific Bridges between the Islamic World and Latin America,” was a collaborative effort by the Alliance of Civilisations Institute at Ibn Haldun University, SIFHAMS, and the UNESCO Chair with the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM). The goal was to investigate historical links and to foster cooperation in science, education, and culture.

During his keynote address, Prof. Mesut Idriz, Director of SIFHAMS, delved into the historical routes of knowledge migration from the Islamic world to Latin America, illuminating the scientific progress of Al-Andalus and the roles of Muslim navigators in early cartography and maritime exploration. He underscored the significant ramifications of these advancements on global history, advocating for the acknowledgment of the Muslim contribution to the “discovery of the New World.”

Prof. Idriz called upon academic institutions to support collaborative research initiatives and to establish opportunities for emerging scholars from both regions. He pointed to fields such as the humanities, heritage digitization, and cultural conservation as key areas ripe for joint efforts. By exchanging knowledge and resources, scholars can fortify the scientific and cultural bonds between the Islamic world and Latin America.

Researchers from the University of Sharjah showcased their work on topics including digital heritage preservation, scientific diplomacy, and intercultural dialogue, reflecting the university's proactive stance in promoting knowledge exchange and enhancing international collaboration. Prof. Jairo Lugo-Ocando, Dean of the College of Communication, along with Prof. Nadia Al Hosani, Dean of the College of Fine Arts and Design, took part as moderators for several sessions, steering discussions on the significance of scholarships and knowledge-sharing in elevating scientific and cultural interactions.

Prof. Idriz presided over a session titled “Entangled Histories: Islamic-Latin Encounters and Cross-Continental Knowledge Flows,” which examined the cultural and economic exchanges that have transpired between the Islamic world and Latin America. Scholars deliberated on how such interactions have informed relationships, spurred scientific progress, and left enduring cultural legacies.

The conference acted as a vital platform for strengthening connections among scholars from disparate regions. It promoted collaborative research, encouraged cultural awareness, and showcased the intertwined history of the Islamic world and Latin America. The University of Sharjah's involvement affirmed its dedication to enhancing knowledge and nurturing international partnerships in the domains of science, heritage, and education.

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