Why it matters:
The meeting aims to establish a unified scientific and technological strategy among Islamic nations at a time when AI is rapidly transforming global education systems. A shared AI roadmap would strengthen scientific ties and elevate the role of Muslim countries in emerging tech governance.
The big picture:
This high-level summit, hosted by Iran’s Ministry of Science, Research, and Technology, marks a significant step in coordinating Islamic countries’ responses to 21st-century technological challenges.
It reflects the growing recognition among OIC member states of the need to close the digital gap and foster joint academic development.
What he’s saying:
Iran’s Science Minister Hossein Simaei opened the event, highlighting the urgency of preparing for AI's impact on higher education.
Simaei emphasized the importance of the AI cooperation agreement being drafted at the summit, calling it a “milestone document” that, once ratified, would serve as a unified policy among all Islamic nations.
Key points:
- The meeting was held in Tehran’s Espinas Palace Hotel with participation from over 20 OIC-15 member countries.
- Drafting a joint AI cooperation document to shape the future of higher education in the Islamic world.
- Includes discussions on expert panel outcomes, final summit communiqué, and bilateral meetings.
- Ministers visited an exhibition showcasing Iran’s latest university and tech innovations and signed multiple educational and scientific MoUs.
Go Deeper
This gathering follows growing calls for South-South scientific collaboration and reflects a pivot in Islamic countries’ approach to education, from reactive policy-making to proactive innovation leadership.
The AI roadmap, if implemented, could position the OIC bloc as a key player in ethical AI development and regional academic synergy.
Hossein Vaez
