SAMARKAND: Minister of Education Jalal Al-Tabtabaei on Tuesday emphasized Kuwait’s strong commitment to education as a cornerstone of its future vision, Kuwait 2035, stressing ongoing efforts to enhance educational quality and modernize curricula to keep pace with global developments. His remarks were delivered during his representation of Kuwait at the 43rd session of the General Conference of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), held from November 1 to 13 in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, with participation from representatives of 194 countries.
Minister Al-Tabtabaei conveyed the greetings of Kuwait’s political leadership, including His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah and His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Al-Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah. He underscored Kuwait’s firm belief in investing in education by developing infrastructure and empowering teachers and students, aiming to nurture an innovative and responsible generation that contributes to the nation’s advancement.
Highlighting the integration of artificial intelligence and digital innovation in the education sector, the minister noted that these efforts enhance student interaction, stimulate creativity, and strengthen critical thinking and research skills, while promoting a culture of sustainable science. He added that Kuwait extends its educational initiatives internationally, supporting developing countries through the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, which has funded projects exceeding $650 million.
Minister Al-Tabtabaei expressed Kuwait’s keenness to continue its collaboration with UNESCO and its partners, recognizing the organization as a key platform for promoting education, culture, and science, fostering peace and understanding and advancing sustainable development. He also commended the Republic of Uzbekistan for its excellent organization of the session. Addressing regional concerns, the minister noted that the session coincides with the second anniversary of the Zionist occupation’s crimes in Gaza, which include genocide, starvation, and destruction of schools, hospitals, and over 110 historical, archaeological and religious sites.
He stressed the need for concrete measures to protect educational and cultural institutions in occupied Arab territories and reiterated Kuwait’s support for UNESCO’s efforts to safeguard education and culture in conflict zones, promote reconstruction, and provide educational and humanitarian aid.
Minister Al-Tabtabai highlighted the importance of multilateral international cooperation as a key mechanism to address global challenges, foster dialogue among peoples, and preserve human heritage through UNESCO’s work. He also expressed appreciation to UNESCO Director-General for continuing to award the late His Highness Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah Prize for Digital Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, reflecting Kuwait’s commitment to inclusion, equal opportunity, and humanitarian initiatives. The minister concluded by noting that the General Conference serves as UNESCO’s highest legislative body, responsible for adopting programs and budgets and setting strategic directions in education, culture, and science. – KUNA
