On the sidelines of the University of Birmingham delegation’s visit to the International Islamic Fiqh Academy in Jeddah on Thursday, 05 Jumada Al-Akhira 1446, corresponding to 08 November 2024, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between two institutions after a round table discussion of its contents.

After the screening of a documentary on the Academy’s history and its objectives, Dr. Alhaji Manta Drami, Head of International Cooperation and External Relations, moderated the roundtable, and distinguished participants presented their insights on the MoU, its importance, and its implementation mechanism. The Secretary General of the Academy then spoke about the MoU’s importance in facilitating the development of programs related to their common interests for the two institutions. “I am very pleased to have this opportunity to sign an MoU with this reputable British university. We can cooperate in many areas as outlined in the MoU,” he said. His Excellency also directed the Head of International Cooperation to develop a work program in cooperation with the university to implement the MoU.

On the other hand, His Excellency Prof. Robin Mason expressed his happiness for this agreement and cooperation with the complex, adding: “I am pleased and excited about this cooperation between the University of Birmingham and the Academy and we must maintain this positivity and optimism.” Prof. Andrews Davies, Director of the Edward Cadbury Center, said: “I am delighted to work in collaboration with the Academy. We can work in many areas, such as interfaith dialogue, staff exchanges, and the development of courses relevant to both institutions. We believe the proper presentation of religion can be a source of peace and social cohesion.”

The British Consul General to Jeddah, Ms. Cecile Belaidi, also expressed her feelings, saying: “I am very pleased to sign this MoU between the University and IIFA. I thank His Excellency for his warm welcome and hospitality. We are particularly pleased to note that the MoU includes the important role of women in development.”

The meeting was attended by Mr. Mohammed Mondher Chouk, Director of Cabinet and Protocol, Mrs. Sara Amjad Hussein Bedewi, Director of Family, Women, Childhood and Elderly Affairs, Dr. Haj Mantah Drameh, Head of International Cooperation and External Relations, Mr. Amjad Ibrahim Al-Mansi, Head of Protocol, and Mr. Saad Samar, Head of IT and Media.