As part of the Third International Summit of Religious Leaders held in Malaysia, His Excellency Professor Koutoub Moustapha Sano, Secretary General of the Academy, chaired on Friday, 26 Dhul-Hijjah 1447 AH, corresponding to 12 June 2026, a scientific session entitled: “Addressing Contemporary Challenges Facing Youth and Seizing Future Opportunities.”

The session, held within the framework of the third religious summit organized by the Muslim World League in Kuala Lumpur, addressed several major issues concerning youth in a rapidly changing world marked by profound social, intellectual, and digital transformations. Discussions highlighted the evolution of religious and societal discourse and the need to better understand the aspirations and concerns of younger generations.

On this occasion, His Excellency emphasized the need to rethink traditional approaches toward youth, as some of these approaches no longer correspond to their realities, expectations, and the profound transformations of their environment. He called for the promotion of a realistic, inclusive discourse adapted to contemporary realities, capable of engaging youth in their digital, intellectual, and social spheres.

His Excellency stated:

“The greatest challenge we face is not the number of questions young people ask, but rather our sometimes insufficient ability to provide convincing answers in a language they understand and can relate to. Youth do not need moralizing speeches that ignore their concerns and realities; they need sincere dialogue and exemplary role models capable of translating values into concrete actions. The true investment of the nation lies in its youth: they are both its present and its future.”

The Secretary General further stressed that the challenges faced by youth should not be viewed solely as crises, but also as opportunities to strengthen trust, renew dialogue, and reinforce ties between religious institutions and younger generations.

He noted that the responsibility of religious leaders is now more important than ever. Building trust with youth must begin with listening before guiding, and must be reflected in practical, balanced responses adapted to their realities, in order to strengthen their sense of belonging, identity, and capacity to contribute positively to society.

The session was distinguished by the diversity of its participants, reflecting the spirit of the Summit. It brought together Muslim leaders as well as representatives of other religious traditions, fostering constructive dialogue on common challenges faced by younger generations beyond their different affiliations and contexts, and on the importance of interfaith cooperation in building a more cohesive and united future.