Admin Mugtama
Amidst an atmosphere brimming with vitality and creativity, reflecting the deep-rootedness of Islamic thought and its keenness to establish values and enhance knowledge. Since its launch, the exhibition has affirmed its position as a leading cultural platform that blends authenticity and modernity, and opens new horizons for thought and culture.
Student Attendance Marks a Prominent Aspect of Today's Events
The morning period witnessed a large influx of male and female school students who filled the exhibition halls, in a scene that reflected their passion for knowledge and their deep interaction with the activities presented. Their participation was lively and diverse, including expressive Quranic recitation and the recitation of national and educational poems about the importance of reading and knowledge.
Educational Competitions Foster Knowledge and Collaboration
Held on the stage of the Social Reform Society, its segments varied between questions on the Prophet's biography, jurisprudence, and Islamic history, in addition to physical competitions that stimulated the spirit of cooperation and teamwork among the students, amidst lively interaction and remarkable enthusiasm.
Interactive Events Cultivate Critical and Creative Thinking
Workshops, discussion sessions, and intellectual competitions targeting various age groups were held, focusing on developing critical and creative thinking skills and encouraging participants to showcase their talents in an encouraging cultural atmosphere that combined benefit and enjoyment.
A Leading Cultural Platform with Global Reach
Organized by the Social Reform Society at its headquarters in the Rawda area under the slogan "Towards Civilizational Awareness," it is held under the generous patronage of His Excellency the Minister of Information and Culture and Minister of State for Youth Affairs, Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi, from April 21 to May 3, 2025. More than 120 entities and publishing houses from the Gulf, the Levant, and the Arab Maghreb are participating, in addition to European publishing houses, reflecting the global nature of the exhibition and its status as a leading cultural platform.
The Exhibition Continues to Offer Diverse Cultural and Intellectual Programs
Targeting all segments of society, it seeks to establish Islamic values and formulate a civilizational awareness that interacts with contemporary issues and future challenges.
Book Review: "Targeting Africa" by Obyianuju Ekeocha
April 29, 2025
Introduction: Africa - A Continent of Wealth and the Ambitions of Neo-Colonialists
The continent of Africa is known for being one of the richest continents, abundant in various types of wealth, in addition to its stunning nature of mountains, forests, and plains, and being home to many exotic animals and rare plants, as well as rarely exploited natural resources such as diamond, gold, silver, and petroleum reserves. The major Western colonial powers have long recognized these advantages and their potential to advance their own countries, making the countries of the African continent a tempting target. Thus, many conflicts are taking place to control it, and even with the end of the occupation and the return of the colonial states to their homelands, the ambitions have not ended. Rather, new policies have emerged, other than the use of wars and armed force - although not in all countries - to control the African continent and its people. This is what the book "(Targeting Africa: The New Ideological Colonialism in the 21st Century)" came to explain and analyze.
About the Author, the Book, and the Translation: An African Voice Against Soft Colonialism
The author of "Targeting Africa" is the Nigerian medical biologist Obyianuju Ekeocha, born in 1979. She received her secondary education at the Federal Government Girls' College, Owerri, before moving to the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, where she obtained a Bachelor's degree in Microbiology. She also holds a Master's degree in Biomedical Sciences from the University of East London. She currently works and lives in the United Kingdom and is the founder and president of the organization (Culture of Life Africa), through which she seeks to promote a culture of life in Africa through education and the dissemination of knowledge.
The book "(Targeting Africa: The New Ideological Colonialism in the 21st Century)" in its original English version consists of (225) medium-sized pages. The book was translated by the translator Asmaa Abdel Razek Sati, who works as a researcher and author on family and development issues. This was done through the journal (African Readings), which appeared on the cultural scene in 2004 and is a quarterly, peer-reviewed cultural journal specializing in the affairs of the African continent.
The book generally aims to clarify the extent of the danger threatening the African continent, whether for individuals or for the identity of the entire continent. This was done by addressing a set of different issues that the African society suffers from, within eight chapters, each of which deals with one of the thorny issues and its various dimensions.
In the introduction to the book, the author discussed what the various countries of the African continent went through during the occupation period that began in the mid-nineteenth century when the major European countries decided to explore Africa and benefit from it in trade and settlement during the Berlin Conference (1884-1885). This occupation continued until February 1941, when US President Franklin D. Roosevelt and British Prime Minister Winston Churchill met to discuss their vision for the world in the post-World War II era, one of the results of which was the gradual liberation of African countries from colonial occupation.
Chapter One: Controlling the Population
The author begins this chapter by presenting the statistics announced by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs, which show that the African contribution to the global population will rise to (25%) by the year 2050 and reach (39%) in the year 2100. This is a matter of concern for officials because this population growth - under suitable conditions - will represent a large base of the labor force that will make Africa the largest market in the world and a major influence on the global economy. At the same time, the same research shows that thirty-eight countries, including major powers such as (China, Germany, Russia), have witnessed a significant decline in the fertility rate from 2010 to 2015, which has led influential political leaders to sound the alarm about the coming African population bomb.
Accordingly, world leaders began to develop a well-thought-out plan to control African population growth, starting with working to ignore women's desire to have children and striving to reduce their fertility rates, and spreading the culture of using various contraceptive drugs and devices, without regard to the negative effects that may result from them, such as an increased risk of cancer and heart disease, or the fact that these means are a primary cause of sexually transmitted diseases.
The author expresses her strong objection to the use of these methods, arguing that working on family planning should in reality be a good, sound, and healthy idea, and that it should be natural and healthy for both spouses, not destructive to the health of the soul and body as contraceptives do, which result in many risks and harms that officials deal with with absolute silence. She mentioned some of the most prominent of these, including blood clots, sinusitis, cardiovascular diseases, in addition to ovarian cysts, or the occurrence of heavy menstruation and others.
Chapter Two: Drowning Youth in Desires
In this chapter, the author explains that the target group of sexual rights activists in recent years has been children; claiming that this is considered an international right protected by law in the first place. If it achieves the desired success, future generations will be fully aware of what is called fundamentalist gender ideology. This claim includes encouraging many harmful ideas such as masturbation, homosexual acts, and pornography.
The proponents of this vision claim that they are seeking to solve one of the biggest problems facing developing countries and that achieving the required goals will ensure the health and well-being of families, encourage equality between both sexes, eliminate the stereotyping of tasks for men and women, reduce the maternal and infant mortality rate, and eliminate unsafe abortions, thus contributing to the formation of a pluralistic democratic entity. Those in charge of this thought did not take into account the cultural and religious nature of people in the African continent, which is represented in the vast majority of its population rejecting abortions, contraception, and premarital sexual relations, in addition to rejecting homosexuality and divorce.
As a result of the previous thought, the rates of AIDS prevalence on the African continent have become catastrophic, and wise people have begun to seek a solution to this problem. One of the most prominent solutions was the ABC prevention plan, and each letter symbolizes a step to be followed, in order:
A = Abstinence before marriage.
B = Be faithful in marriage or to one partner.
C = Condom use if A and B are impossible.
This program achieved great success in Uganda at its beginning - where AIDS infection levels were record-breaking - as the number of unmarried young people who engaged in sexual activity decreased. In the following years, the country recorded a significant decrease in HIV/AIDS cases, reaching (70%) since the epidemic began. In contrast, countries whose populations continued to use contraceptives and condoms extensively - in response to global calls - maintained high infection rates.
Chapter Three: Seeds of Fundamentalist Femininity
At the beginning of this chapter, the author makes a small comparison between the women in Africa she had seen since childhood, who were of pure mettle, whose freedom and strength lay in performing their religious duties and loving their husbands and children, both those who were born and those who were not yet born.
As for the feminist model in the West, freedom in it is represented in sexual liberation, and strength in it means selfishness, individualism, and savage independence.
Then the author clarifies the stages that the Western feminist movement went through. In the first stage, the movement focused on women obtaining basic rights such as education and choosing a profession. During the second wave, the goal became to move away from the essence of femininity and focus on defining and affirming reproductive rights. The third wave came to present personal viewpoints related to various gender issues. The African feminist movements that emerged in parallel with the Western feminist movement, but with the fundamental difference between each in goal and content, include examples such as: the African Women's Development Fund (AWDF), the African Women's Network for Development and Communication (FEMNET), and others that were explained in detail.
Chapter Four: Incitement to Legalize Abortion
The author begins this chapter by asserting that the human soul is precious, valuable, and sublime, and this vision is at the core of the beliefs of the people of Africa. Therefore, everyone views abortion as a great injustice that no one has the right to commit. This has been proven by many different studies, such as the "Ipsos" study in 2014, which concluded that (87%) of Kenyan people reject abortion based solely on the mother's desire without a medical need for it. The "Pew Research Center" study conducted in the same year in (40) different countries in Africa, in which approximately (40,117) participants took part, affirmed that abortion is considered a moral crime. Most African countries have issued laws prohibiting abortions except under specific circumstances such as: physical or mental health impairment, or in cases of rape and incest, or the presence of fetal defects and other legitimate reasons.
Despite this being the nature of the African people, it has been met with objection from some organizations, most notably (the pro-abortion organization – Ipas), which in 2014 issued a guide (Abortion Rights and Laws in Africa), a special guide for judges that addresses African restrictions on abortion that must be removed. The World Health Organization also strongly supports abortion in African countries based on global demands; claiming that this is the best way to reduce the maternal mortality rate, which the author affirms is incorrect because maternal mortality rates are also high in many countries that have been working to legalize abortion for decades.
Chapter Five: Normalizing Sexual Deviance
In this chapter, the author clarifies that the specific nature of the African people's structure and culture categorically rejects the celebration of the marriage of two women, or the desire for offspring for two men. Striving to prove the possibility of marriage between two women or two men requires the demolition of this culture, which is what activists supporting sexual deviance seek to achieve in Africa.
The rejection of homosexuality by Africans has been proven through many surveys, such as the one conducted by the "Pew Research Center" in 2013, which showed that (98%) of Ghanaians, (93%) of Ugandans, (92%) of Tunisians, (88%) of Kenyans, and (85%) of Nigerians reject homosexual behavior. This is despite the direct call made by former US President Barack Obama, through which he urged Africans to accept homosexual behavior in their societies and abolish the legal penalties imposed on its practitioners.
The author emphasizes that it is the duty of the United Nations not to take decisions, especially in sensitive issues that contradict the beliefs, culture, customs, and laws of many countries. She adds that Africa, which wants to move along the path of progress, growth, and stability, will not reach that by paving the way for sexual rights, but rather by encouraging original rights that promote human flourishing and ensure the achievement of the common good. She concludes that African rejection of normalization with homosexuality is currently more solid than ever before.
Chapter Six: The Contemporary Colonial Masters
In this chapter, the author explains the state of unjust interference by Western society in African countries on a recurring basis, despite the passage of more than half a century since the continent's liberation from colonialism. The author cited many examples of this, the most prominent of which was what was described as American meddling in 2009, which appeared in electronic correspondence between the American federal employee in family planning (Laurie Rubiner) and the Secretary of State (Hillary Clinton), urging her to use her influence to stop the Kenyan government from amending its own laws related to the legal personality of fetuses (abortion procedures). Although the response to the previous request consisted of denying that the US Secretary of State had any connection to health or women's activities in Kenya, this is still considered evidence of the continuous attempts by American leaders to change many of the strict laws followed by African countries regarding abortion procedures.
Chapter Seven: The Addiction of Aid
In this chapter, the author discusses the financial corruption that occurs in governmental institutions on the African continent, which is clearly evident in the high life of some elected and appointed African government officials, which she described as a royal life. She attributes this luxury in part to their salaries, which are much higher than the national average salaries of professionals in other countries. In fact, some parliamentarians - in Nigeria, for example - have salaries classified as the highest in the world, amounting to $189,000, meaning that the average salary of a Nigerian parliamentarian is approximately 116 times the per capita share of the gross domestic product.
Despite this, many members of the Nigerian government have been involved in corruption cases. During 2017, the Nigerian Economic and Financial Crimes Commission accused a former government member of collecting $487.5 million in cash, in addition to many properties, through looted government funds. In 2003, former Zambian President Frederick Chiluba was arrested and charged with stealing and laundering millions of dollars of public money during his presidency. The author cited many other examples that confirm her point.
Then she poses an important question about why donors continue to give African leaders money when they are fully aware that they are appropriating it for themselves. The answer lies in their lack of genuine concern for African corruption as long as they can obtain what they actually want from these grants or deals. Their willingness to give money is met by the willingness of corrupt officials to allow a new kind of ideological colonialism of the African peoples.
The author concludes the seventh chapter of the book by emphasizing that the true beneficiaries of foreign patronage for various programs in Africa are the aid-addicted high-ranking government officials because their dependence on support funds has made them unable to imagine their lives without it, even if the consequences are a new kind of colonialism. Aid for the ruling class in Africa has become like an opium addiction.
Chapter Eight: Towards Liberating Africa from Colonialism
In the final chapter of her book, the author explains that the journey of true freedom and prosperity for the African peoples will not begin before they recognize the harm resulting from the ideological colonialism of their societies and its direct link to the foreign aid being provided. This step begins by carefully examining what lies behind the soft words that pretend to be friendly, such as partnership, equality, choice, diversity, rights, and others.
She attributes the reason for this to the fact that this language has been deconstructed and rebuilt to become more suitable for a specific vision through which the forbidden can be turned into the permissible. Thus, the killing of fetuses becomes safe abortion, and sexual relations between two men are considered marriage, which leads to the fragmentation of sexual moral standards under the guise of sexual rights.
She adds that Africans should stand up against condescending treatment and Western disregard for the validity of their experiences. She emphasizes that their understanding of marriage and family life is supported by medical science, and that the most precious gift the African people can offer the world at present is their inherent culture of life, where religion and custom define the sanctity of human life, the beauty of femininity, the mercy of motherhood, the blessing of marital life, and the gift of children. Knowing the value of all the above will cause many leaders of African countries to be willing to speak with complete frankness and great confidence about the treasures of African culture.
Finally, at the end of the book, the author included an appendix containing her message to Melinda Gates - the former wife of the founder of Microsoft, who has a charitable foundation that operates actively and with significant financial support in Africa - asking her to redirect her funds to what truly serves the peoples of Africa. To achieve this, she suggested many things, the most prominent of which were:
- Providing a good healthcare system, especially for prenatal, neonatal, and pediatric care.
- Nutritional programs for young children.
- High-quality higher education opportunities.
- Chastity programs.
- Supporting small business opportunities for women.
- Strengthening existing non-governmental organizations.
In conclusion, this book is a way to open new horizons that were not widely known or discussed, not only because it deals with a set of highly sensitive issues that Western world leaders seek to keep hidden as much as possible, but also because it addresses these issues truthfully through experiences that its author personally went through and witnessed during her various life stages, making it more credible and realistic. It enables the reader to realize the extent of the organized disaster that many Western countries are perpetrating against the African peoples, working diligently to demolish the religions, customs, ideas, and cultures rooted in their citizens for centuries. The author has excelled in presenting images of this new ideological colonialism carried out by Western countries and institutions, a new war without weapons or fighting, but one that is highly influential and effective.
Book Review: “The Forbidden Arab Development: Dynamics of Accumulation in the Wars of Hegemony” by: Ali al-Qadri
April 29, 2025Critique of Western Development Discourses and Arab Development Failure
The introduction of Ali al-Qadri's book strongly criticizes Western discourses on development in the Global South, emphasizing their abysmal failure to achieve a dignified life for the people of these countries. The author attributes this failure to the dominance of the capitalist and neoliberal economic vision, leading to the confiscation of desired development and the plundering of the South's resources through wars of hegemony, with the complicity of local elites. The Arab region is highlighted as no exception, trapped in "anti-development" characterized by poverty, debt, unemployment, and loss of sovereignty. The book calls for a new intellectual model to understand this failure, deeming neoliberal analysis inadequate and harmful. It stresses the need to rethink development, emphasizing that changes in ruling elites and philosophies must precede economic shifts, viewing development as a civilizational process rooted in a worldview and undertaken by independent, self-governing societies. The introduction concludes by underscoring the importance of a comprehensive understanding of Arab development, which the book aims to provide.
Qadri's Analysis of Arab Development Obstacles
Dr. Ali al-Qadri's book presents a vision and model for interpreting the obstacles to development in the Arab world and its failure, termed the "reverse development process." The book, comprising an introduction and nine chapters, offers an analysis of this failure, critiquing the prevailing theory that prioritizes the private sector, free markets, and good governance as sufficient for development. Qadri posits that development is a deeper "civilizational project" born from political struggle led by the working class and based on power-sharing among social classes, not just economic policies. The book argues that the Arab world's crisis is socially entrenched, fueled by disintegration and artificial conflicts, and influenced by regional dynamics (oil and war), imperialist interventions, and neoliberal policies. It concludes that development failure is a shared responsibility between imperialism and its Arab partners, with neoliberal policies acting as indirect colonialism. The book ends by questioning how to overcome this dynamic. Dr. al-Qadri, a university professor with relevant prior works, focuses his research on the political economy of war and its impact on development in West Asia.
Qadri's Proposed Socialist Alternative
Qadri proposes an alternative for achieving development rooted in political awareness and a socialist framework. He argues that development failure stems from intellectual defeat and the dominance of Western ideas, asserting that genuine development depends on the nature of those in power, who often exploit resources in collaboration with American imperialism. Consequently, he advocates for the revival of an alternative ideology and breaking the cycle of dependence through political consciousness capable of confronting imperialism and implementing a socialist alternative that secures the well-being of the working class. Qadri suggests "reimagining the international socialist project" as a pathway to Arab development through global solidarity, emphasizing the Arab region's central role in the global economy shaped by finance, militarization, and oil. He calls for a global alliance of the working classes, led by the Arab working class, to dismantle capital and its wars. He also proposes an alliance between China and the Arab world as a mechanism for realizing popular will in development, extending this alliance to other exploited working classes. Qadri believes that the dominance of the socialist alternative will replace sectarian identities with working-class alliances, foster self-reliance, and shape democratic policies that restructure classes. He urges the communist vanguard and the working class in the South to resist capital and its ideologies, highlighting resistance as crucial for societal regeneration and defeating the cross-border ruling alliance.
Critique of Qadri's Ideas and Assumptions
Qadri's book presents several significant and debatable ideas, including:
- The Role of the Soviet Union: The review questions the direct link between the absence of the Soviet Union and the ferocity of liberalism, noting the Soviet Union's own problematic developmental record and role in exploiting the Global South.
- Ambiguity of Class Concepts: The concepts of the Arab and global working classes are deemed vague and lacking concrete definitions.
- Exclusion of National Identity: Qadri's focus solely on class analysis and Marxist ideology is criticized for overlooking the crucial role of national identity and the potential of Islam in development.
- Impact of Translation Delay: The time gap between the book's writing and translation is seen as a factor making its analysis of political Islam somewhat outdated.
- Contradiction Regarding China: The book's positive view of China as a potential ally is contradicted by Qadri's own statements about China's alignment against Arab working-class interests and its complicity with exploitative powers.
- Gaps in the Socialist Alternative: The proposed socialist alternative lacks detailed explanations of distributive policies, alternative ownership models, and analysis of transnational corporations.
- Need for Language Simplification: The book's language is considered too complex for a wider audience.
The review notes further unelaborated criticisms and acknowledges the translator's and others' additional points.
Overall Assessment and Call for Dialogue
This is a passionate and critical review of Ali al-Qadri's book, described as transformative and inspiring action, knowledge, and struggle, blending engaging style with strong, humanistic arguments. The book is seen as both enjoyable and painful, challenging readers to take responsibility for changing the world. It is lauded as a thought-provoking and enduring work that renews the spirit of fighting for justice. The reviewer finds personal resonance with the book and believes it would be even more impactful if Qadri had focused on the broader concept of the oppressed, particularly Muslims, and engaged with Islamic texts as deeply as with Marxist ones. The book is positioned as a new Arab-infused socialist manifesto against savage capitalism. While acknowledging the book's flaws, the reviewer emphasizes its important message and calls for a productive dialogue between Marxist and Islamic perspectives on the alternative needed for the Arab world, focusing on the roots of capitalist inequality and the foundations of a civilizational development project. The reviewer, holding an Islamic perspective, questions why those within the Islamic intellectual tradition have not produced a similarly compelling and deeply analyzed alternative. Ultimately, the book's core benefit is seen in its articulation of the idea that a nation's life and death are tied to its self-perception and adherence to its dignity. The review concludes by noting Qadri's Marxist-based analysis of Arab development under imperialist dominance and his call for a communist alternative, while questioning the absence of Muslim thinkers offering an Islamic alternative rooted in their own epistemological framework.
A Vibrant Hub of Culture and Knowledge
The 47th Islamic Book Fair continues its successful run for the eighth consecutive day, creating a lively atmosphere filled with cultural and creative engagement. This event underscores the deep-rootedness of Islamic thought and its commitment to fostering values and expanding knowledge within society. Since its inception, the exhibition has solidified its position as a leading cultural platform, seamlessly blending tradition and modernity to broaden intellectual horizons.
Engaging Activities for Young Minds
The morning sessions at the exhibition halls were abuzz with diverse cultural activities and programs tailored to various age groups. School students flocked to these events, demonstrating their enthusiasm and active participation in the offerings.
Students Impressed by the Cultural Ambiance
The exhibition's atmosphere captivated visiting students, who expressed their admiration for the exceptional cultural and organizational aspects. Several students also eloquently recited verses from the Holy Quran, emphasizing the significance of knowledge and reading in Islam.
Insightful Guidance on Academic Paths
The day's activities commenced with an important guidance lecture titled "How to Choose Your Major?". This session was specifically designed for middle and high school students.
Expert Advice on Selecting a Major
Dr. Musa Al-Muraidi delivered the lecture at the Social Reform Society's stage. His presentation offered a scientific and educational approach to choosing an academic specialization that aligns with students' interests and abilities. He emphasized the crucial role of early planning in shaping academic and professional futures.
Interactive Learning at the "Athar" Social Center
The "Athar" Social Center maintained a high level of engagement throughout the morning with a variety of interactive activities catering to different age groups. These included educational workshops, meaningful discussion sessions, intellectual competitions, and interactive presentations. These activities fostered greater participant interaction and opened new avenues for critical and creative thinking.
Encouraging Participation and Talent Showcase
These activities were designed to encourage active participation and provide a platform for attendees to showcase their talents and abilities within a stimulating cultural environment that harmoniously blended knowledge and enjoyment.
Enhancing the Cultural Competence of Educators
A specialized training course titled "The Cultural Formation of Islamic Education Teachers" was also organized. Dr. Abdulaziz Al-Kandari from the Guidance Department at the Ministry of Education led this course.
Equipping Teachers with Cultural Awareness
The course aimed to enhance the cultural competence of teachers by providing them with the necessary scientific and methodological tools to cultivate an authentic cultural awareness grounded in Islamic principles. Simultaneously, it focused on enabling them to engage with contemporary issues and challenges effectively.
Focusing on the Teacher's Pivotal Role
The course's themes included discussions on the teacher's vital role in shaping future generations and instilling authentic Islamic values and concepts. It also presented strategies for leveraging culture as an effective educational tool to develop the student's holistic personality, reinforce Islamic identity, and foster an open yet critically aware engagement with the achievements of human civilization. Furthermore, a curated selection of scientific sources and references was provided to assist teachers in enriching their knowledge and updating their intellectual tools in a systematic and balanced manner.
A Prominent International Cultural Platform
The 47th Islamic Book Fair, organized by the Social Reform Society at its headquarters in the Rawda area under the theme "Towards Civilizational Awareness," is held under the generous patronage of His Excellency the Minister of Information and Culture and Minister of State for Youth Affairs Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi, from April 21 to May 3, 2025. The exhibition features the participation of over 120 entities and publishing houses, with significant international representation from Gulf countries, the Levant, Jordan, Egypt, Iraq, Turkey, the Arab Maghreb countries, and European publishing houses. This broad participation underscores the exhibition's global significance and affirms its status as a prominent civilizational and cultural platform at both Arab and Islamic levels.
Continuing to Foster Awareness and Shape Culture
The exhibition continues its mission to offer a diverse array of cultural programs, interactive activities, and intellectual seminars aimed at various segments of society. This ongoing effort reflects its commitment to enhancing the awareness of generations and shaping a cultural landscape rooted in Islamic values while actively engaging with the challenges of the present and the future.
The 47th Islamic Book Fair is not merely a gathering for selling books, but rather a space for shaping awareness and nourishing thought, a bridge extending between a rich past and a developing present. Despite the digital transformations the world is experiencing, this fair proves year after year that paper is alive, that reading remains a renewed passion in people's hearts, and that knowledge does not die as long as there are hearts that love to learn.
Amidst a distinguished cultural and spiritual atmosphere witnessed by the activities of the 47th Islamic Book Fair, organized by the Social Reform Society in Kuwait, with a remarkable presence and active participation of intellectual, cultural, and scientific figures, and within the aisles of the fair, the voices of intellectuals and pioneers of knowledge rose, praising the value and impact of the book, which neither modern technology rivals nor the artificial intelligence revolution shakes.
Dr. Al-Awadhi: The Fair of Civilizational Awareness
Islamic thinker Dr. Muhammad Al-Awadhi expressed his great pleasure in being present at the Islamic Book Fair, explaining that he greatly enjoyed the cultural atmosphere that this ancient fair carries, which began in Kuwait before the launch of the International Book Fair, carrying a rich historical legacy. Al-Awadhi affirmed, after attending a lecture titled "Is Awareness an Intellectual Luxury?" presented by Dalal Al-Jarallah and Dr. Noura Al-Otaibi, that the fair addresses profound topics that we are in dire need of in light of contemporary intellectual challenges.
He added that the intensive cultural activities in the fields of thought, economics, management, and linguistics all fall under the project of building civilizational awareness. He also praised the continued اقبال (turnout/demand) for the paper book despite the dominance of electronic means, stressing that the relationship between the reader and their book remains a unique one that technology cannot compensate for.
Dr. Al-Sanad: The Paper Book Resists Despite the Digital Age
Academician Dr. Ali Al-Sanad expressed his joy in participating in the fair, emphasizing that the Islamic Book Fair has been a companion to him since childhood, developing remarkably year after year.
He pointed out that the continued اقبال (turnout/demand) of the public for paper books, despite the dominance of artificial intelligence and social media, is evidence that the book still retains its special charm and cherished place among readers. He affirmed that the Islamic Book Fair proves year after year that paper has its readers and lovers, wishing this ancient fair continued success for decades to come.
Al-Shammari: The Paper Book is an Unmatched Pleasure
Kuwaiti preacher Farhan Obeid Al-Shammari clarified that book fairs still impose their presence despite the significant expansion of electronic books and digital media. Al-Shammari affirmed that the paper book has a special pleasure in the heart and that it is indispensable for spreading religious and cultural knowledge through fairs, which are a cognitive outlet for every Muslim keen on seeking knowledge, praising the role of those in charge of the fair in continuing these initiatives.
Al-Enati: The Book is the Primary Cognitive Tool
Preacher Sheikh Jassim Al-Enati said that this year's Islamic Book Fair presents a new and distinguished thesis with the wide participation of Arab and Islamic libraries. He affirmed that the book will remain the primary cultural tool no matter how digital media evolves, calling on every lover of knowledge and culture to visit the fair and benefit from its intellectual richness.
Al-Ajami: Knowledge Elevates Man
Preacher Sheikh Hajjaj Al-Ajami, during his visit to the Islamic Book Fair, cited a Hadith of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) about the virtue of knowledge, indicating that knowledge elevates a person and their value remains connected to their being.
He spoke about the impact of modern technology on academic achievement, explaining that the ease of accessing information through modern means does not negate the effort exerted in seeking traditional knowledge through books. He affirmed that the paper book remains a blessing and a symbol of the stability of knowledge and its lasting impact.
Al-Jasser: Half a Century of Loyalty to the Book
Writer Mutlaq Al-Jasser expressed his pride in the Islamic Book Fair, describing it as an ancient fair that has accompanied successive generations. He pointed out that the continuity of the fair for half a century is evidence of the loyalty of readers and intellectuals to the paper book, and of the continuous efforts of the fair's management, stressing that no matter how technology evolves, paper books will still have their place and charm.
Al-Shaheen: The Fair Was Distinguished by Diverse Content and Cultural Seminars
Former Kuwaiti MP Osama Al-Shaheen affirmed, during his visit to the fair, his keenness to attend annually, praising the diversity of the fair and the presence of local, Arab, and international libraries. He added: It is remarkable that the Islamic Book Fair is the first annual book fair in the history of Kuwait and has continued for 47 years. Greetings to the Social Reform Society and the fair team.
He pointed out that this year's fair was distinguished by diverse media content, cultural seminars, listening sessions, and dialogue lectures, in addition to a special children's pavilion and participation from charitable and cooperative societies.
Despite the challenges of the electronic book, Al-Shaheen stressed that the paper book still maintains its position thanks to its beauty, the advantage of noting observations on it, and carrying it without the need for energy. It still retains its audience despite the impact of modern technologies on paper sales.
Al-Khodr: Despite Technological Development, the Book Remains Present with its Pioneers
For his part, academician Dr. Talal Al-Khodr explained that the advantage of the fair lies in its being one of the oldest specialized fairs in the Arab world, entirely dedicated to the Islamic book. He added: Despite technological development and the challenges of digital programs, the book remains present with its pioneers and followers, making the fair an integral part of Kuwait's memory and its culture that extends for more than half a century.
Al-Lahem: The Paper Book is Like Purebred Horses
Media activist Hamad Al-Lahem expressed his emotional connection to the fair since his childhood, noting that he still makes sure to visit it even after reaching the age of forty-two. He said: The continuity of the fair for 47 years confirms its strength and cultural standing, stressing that the paper book is like purebred horses that have not become obsolete despite the emergence of modern cars; it still touches hearts and minds, especially when it relates to our Islamic history, jurisprudence, and heritage.
Al-Shatti: These Fairs are True Sources for Authentic Education and Culture
Cultural activist Haya Al-Shatti praised the organization of the fair, considering it evidence of the present cultural awareness. She said: We thank those in charge of the accompanying series of lectures and cultural seminars. She added that electronic books have their place, but paper books remain the primary reference in research and scientific fields, and the presence of a paper library in every house of knowledge is indispensable.
Maslouh: Fairs are a Living Artery that Supplies Society with Awareness and Knowledge
Academician Dr. Saad Maslouh expressed his happiness with the level of organization and continuity, noting that the fair is heartening and offers new additions every year that delight visitors. He added: Such fairs are true sources for authentic education and culture. The true intellectual is inseparable from the paper book, and fairs represent a living artery that supplies society with awareness and knowledge.
Day Seven at the Islamic Book Fair: A Vibrant Day of Learning and Engagement
The 47th Islamic Book Fair continues its activities for the seventh consecutive day amidst a lively atmosphere and renewed cultural activity. This reflects the deep-rootedness of Islamic thought and its continuous pursuit of promoting values and knowledge in society.
Student Engagement in the Spotlight: Schoolgirls Participate Actively with Recitations and Poetry
The seventh day of the exhibition witnessed a series of diverse morning activities, with a remarkable presence of schoolgirls. The events garnered extensive interaction from them. The exhibition's lens met with several students who expressed their admiration for the fair's atmosphere. They excelled in reciting Quranic verses emphasizing the importance of reading in Islam, alongside reciting national poems expressing their love for Kuwait.
"Athar" Center Offers Interactive Morning Activities: Clay Workshop and Educational Event Delight Attendees
Morning activities continued with significant momentum at the "Athar" Social Center. A clay-making workshop was organized, in addition to an event titled "Big Love from My Little Heart," presented by the "Your Little One is Your Ambassador" team with valuable educational content and an enjoyable creative style.
"Aman" Platform Draws Crowds with Edutainment: Animated Content Fosters Values in Young Generations
The morning period also witnessed a wide turnout at the "Aman" platform, an educational and entertainment platform that presents Islamic content through animation, combining enjoyment and knowledge. It aims to build a generation committed to values through engaging visual methods.
"Mastaba" Club Provides Diverse Cultural Experiences: Story Readings and Crochet Workshop Engage Visitors
For its part, the "Mastaba" Club continued to present its cultural activities by reading the story "Long Live Palestine," in addition to organizing reading workshops for the stories "Bustan Urwa" and "Ain Zubaida," as well as a workshop for teaching the art and craft of crochet, which added a rich interactive atmosphere to the exhibition.
Islamic Education Competition Sparks Enthusiasm: Girls' Schools Compete in Knowledge and Teamwork
As part of the educational activities, the Islamic Education Guidance competition was held with the participation of 7 girls' schools. Its segments varied between questions in the Prophet's biography, jurisprudence, and Islamic history, in addition to kinetic competitions that enhanced the spirit of teamwork and collaboration among students, in an atmosphere full of interaction and enthusiasm.
It is worth noting that the 47th Islamic Book Fair, organized by the Social Reform Society at its headquarters in the Rawda area under the slogan "Towards Civilizational Awareness" and under the generous patronage of the Minister of Information and Culture and Minister of State for Youth Affairs Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi, opened its doors from April 21 to May 3, 2025, with the participation of more than 120 entities and publishing houses, including international participations from the Gulf countries, the Levant, Jordan, Egypt, Iraq, Turkey, and the Arab Maghreb countries, in addition to publishing houses from European countries.
The activities of the 47th Islamic Book Fair continue since its opening on the morning of Monday, April 21st, amidst a vibrant atmosphere, renewed cultural activity, and a deep-rooted Islamic thought that seeks to enhance values and knowledge in society.
A Tour for the Educational Experiences Club
The sixth day of the exhibition witnessed a series of diverse activities during the morning period. The Companionship Sector at the Educational Experiences Club organized an educational tour aimed at instilling the concepts of brotherhood and Islamic values in the participants through practical, interactive, and engaging activities.
Planting the Palestinian Identity in the Hearts of the Young
At the Athar Social Center, the morning activities continued with remarkable momentum. The Mastaba Club held a workshop entitled "Making a Watermelon Badge," an art workshop aimed at introducing children and youth to the symbolism of the Palestinian flag by designing models inspired by the shape of the watermelon, which has become a symbol of Palestinian identity and resistance.
In an enchanting storytelling atmosphere, the storyteller Jihan presented a story for children entitled "The Tale of History's Foot in the City of Watermelon," which dealt with the suffering of the Palestinian people under the yoke of occupation in a simplified manner and language close to the child's conscience. This gave the event a deep emotional and humanitarian character and planted in the hearts of children an early awareness of the justice of the Palestinian cause.
A Window on the Most Beautiful Names of Allah
From another corner of the exhibition, the activities lens spotted a book signing in the Doha Bookstore pavilion. The Media Committee met with the preacher Dr. Maryam Al-Awaish during the signing of her book entitled "Get to Know Him," amidst the presence of visitors and interested individuals.
Al-Awaish said: "All praise be to Allah who has bestowed upon us and facilitated the publication of these books, which we hope will be a source of knowledge and a breath of faith for every reader."
She added, explaining the idea of the book: "'Get to Know Him' takes the reader on a journey of knowledge through the most beautiful names of Allah. We present each name in a simplified manner, accompanied by a real-life story that reflects the name and its meaning. A QR code is also added with each name to facilitate access to a recorded explanatory episode, making the experience more interactive."
She emphasized that the ultimate goal of this work is to bring the reader closer to Allah Almighty and deepen their knowledge of His attributes and most beautiful names in a way that touches both the heart and the mind.
She concluded her speech by praising the Islamic Book Fair, saying: "The exhibition is a leading platform for books that nourish the heart and mind and provide beneficial knowledge that benefits a person in their religion and their worldly life, bringing them closer to their Lord."
The Social Reform Society is hosting the 47th Islamic Book Fair at its Rawda headquarters under the slogan "Towards Civilizational Awareness" from April 21st to May 3rd, 2025. Generously patronized by the Minister of Information and Culture and Minister of State for Youth Affairs Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi, the fair includes over 120 local and international participants from the Gulf region, Levant, Jordan, Egypt, Iraq, Turkey, the Arab Maghreb, and Europe.
The 47th Islamic Book Fair, which opened on the morning of Monday, April 21st, continued its activities with ongoing vitality, renewed culture, and a deep-rooted Islamic thought.
The fifth day of the exhibition began with a lecture on "The Application of Artificial Intelligence" delivered by Mr. Muhammad Al-Ayoub, an e-trainer holding a Master's degree in Learning Technologies. The lecture addressed several key areas, including the emergence and development of artificial intelligence, the opportunities and challenges it has created, as well as the potential risks associated with it.
During his lecture, Al-Ayoub also explained the methods and ways to benefit from and utilize artificial intelligence technologies in various fields.
On another note, he highlighted the security and social harms of these technologies, concluding his lecture by stating that no matter how advanced artificial intelligence becomes, it will never reach human intelligence.
The second event was a lecture on "Challenges of Civilizational Awareness" presented by the Islamic thinker and Kuwaiti preacher Dr. Muhammad Al-Awadhi. He addressed the topic from various angles, starting his talk by commenting on the term "freedom." He pointed out the significant ambiguity surrounding this concept, shedding light on the reasons for the differing understandings of freedom. He emphasized the necessity of adhering to Islamic values and that freedom must stem from an awareness of faith and legitimate guidelines.
In his lecture, Dr. Al-Awadhi warned against the call for Western openness and unlimited freedom, concluding by answering questions from the participants and attendees.
The third activity of the exhibition was the semi-final round of the "Challenge of Geniuses" competition organized by Muhammad Al-Shammari. The competition took place between 4 teams (The Distinguished, The Cultural Salon, The Stars, Al-Rayyan) and included diverse questions in the Quran, the Prophet's biography, Islamic history, geography, medicine, science, and Arabic language.
In the same context, the competition concluded after a fierce competition that lasted for approximately an hour, with the "The Distinguished" team winning and qualifying for the final round.
The fifth day also witnessed the public cultural competition "Educate Yourself 4," in cooperation with the Da'wah and Religious Education Sector of the Social Reform Society. It saw wide interaction from visitors, with instant prizes distributed to the winners, creating an atmosphere of enthusiasm and suspense among the attendees.
In a moving and unforgettable human moment, the Islamic Book Fair witnessed the conversion to Islam of two young men from the Asian community. It was a wonderful scene that embodied the meanings of Islamic brotherhood and the beauty of the spirit, amidst an atmosphere filled with the noble values of Islam and the honorable message of Da'wah.
Featuring the participation of over 120 local and international entities from the Gulf, Levant, Jordan, Egypt, Iraq, Turkey, the Arab Maghreb, and Europe, the 47th Islamic Book Fair is taking place at the Social Reform Society's headquarters in Rawda from April 21st to May 3rd, 2025. The fair operates under the slogan "Towards Civilizational Awareness" and the generous patronage of the Minister of Information and Culture and Minister of State for Youth Affairs Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi.
Palestine and Islamic Values Resonate with Students at the Book Fair on its Fourth Day
April 24, 2025
The activities of the 47th Islamic Book Fair continue on its fourth day, amidst distinguished public attendance and active participation from school students and enthusiasts of Islamic culture.
The exhibition is organized by the Social Reform Society, presenting daily a diverse range of educational, cultural, and interactive activities that aim to consolidate Islamic identity and develop intellectual and spiritual awareness among various age groups.
Beginning of the Day: Student Interaction at the "Athar" Social Center
The activities of the fourth day began with the arrival of groups of male and female school students to the "Athar" Social Center, where various educational and awareness programs were dedicated to them.
Among the most prominent activities presented was an educational awareness lecture titled "Sheikh Yasser's House and the Treacherous Guest," delivered by Professor Faten Al-Saraqbi. The symbolic narrative was used to convey a profound message about the Palestinian issue. The "house" symbolizes Palestine, "Sheikh Yasser" the Palestinian people, and the "treacherous guest" the Israeli occupation that has usurped the land and violated rights.
The lecture garnered significant interaction from the students due to its engaging style and educational approach that carried national and Islamic values.
Interactive Workshops... and Art for Identity
The "Mustaba Club" corner at the Athar Center, supervised by the Youth for Jerusalem League, witnessed various artistic and educational activities, including a workshop on drawing the Al-Aqsa Mosque, cultural competitions, and storytelling about Palestine, targeting students of both genders in different educational stages.
In a special statement, the head of the league's executive office, Youssef Al-Kandari, said: "Through these activities, we seek to enhance the awareness of the new generation about the Palestinian issue, through stories, art, and talents, to instill in them belonging and identity."
"Aman" Platform: Purposeful Entertainment
The morning period also witnessed a wide turnout for the "Aman" platform, an educational and entertainment platform that presents Islamic content in an animated cartoon format, combining enjoyment and knowledge. It aims to build a generation committed to Islamic values through an attractive visual style.
Major Competition with the Participation of 12 Schools
As part of the educational activities, the Ministry of Education – Islamic Education Guidance organized a cultural competition in which 12 schools from the primary, intermediate, and secondary levels participated. These schools are: Saleh Al-Rowaih, Abdul Mohsen Al-Hamoud, Fahaheel Religious Institute, Abu Ayoub Al-Ansari, Sayed Hassan Al-Mousawi, Abdul Latif Thunayan Al-Ghanim, Sabah Al-Salem, Ibn Al-Nafees, Muhammad Ibn Sirin, Al-Mulla Suleiman, Habab Ibn Al-Art, and Jaafar Ibn Abi Talib.
The competition varied between questions on the Prophet's biography, jurisprudence, and Islamic history, in addition to physical competitions that enhanced team spirit and collective work among students.
Visitors' Impressions
The exhibition's camera toured the corridors of the activities to document the interaction and impressions of visitors. Professor Reda Jundiyah, an Arabic language teacher at the Ministry of Education, expressed her admiration for the exhibition, saying: "The Islamic Book Fair satisfies the thirst of those who seek Islamic knowledge, like us, who are inclined to this type of books and search for them with passion."
She added: "I found the exhibition rich and diverse, containing books that address various issues. I was particularly struck by their availability at symbolic prices, starting from half a dinar and one dinar, up to the major reference books (canonical texts), which were at reduced prices that encourage acquisition."
She continued: "What also impressed me was the exhibition's attention to children, through Quranic books and stories designed in an attractive style that makes children love reading and brings them closer to the Holy Quran and its concepts."
Jundiyah directed a message to parents, saying: "We are always looking for the best for our children, so let us be keen to choose the best to teach them the Holy Quran and its interpretation, in addition to mastering the Arabic language. Establishing them on these values is what a child should grow up on."
She concluded by saying: "When this good seed grows, we will reap righteous children who will benefit their society. Therefore, I advise every parent to bring their child to this exhibition to experience the world of books and choose from them what suits their inclinations and interests."
- Launch Event – The 47th Islamic Book Fair was inaugurated on April 21, 2025, under the theme "Towards a Civilizational Awareness."
- Cultural Importance – The Islamic Book Fair featured speeches highlighting reading, Islamic heritage, and Kuwait’s designation as the Capital of Arab Culture.
- Large Participation – The Islamic Book Fair attracted authors, scholars, diplomats, and students, reinforcing its global significance.
- Engaging Activities – The Islamic Book Fair hosted competitions, forums, and discussions fostering intellectual and cultural exchange.
- Forum Theme: A literary forum at the Islamic Book Fair explore poetry and literature’s role in shaping civilizational awareness.
- Distinguished Speakers – The Islamic Book Fair welcomed experts like Dr. Saad Maslooh, Dr. Muhammad Hassan Al-Tayyeb, and Talal Al-Aamer, who provided insights into language, rhetoric, and Islamic literature.
- Cultural Revival – The Islamic Book Fair emphasizes poetry and literature as tools for preserving Islamic identity and heritage.
- Event Details – The Islamic Book Fair's literary forum is scheduled for April 23 at 8 PM at the Social Reform Society’s auditorium in Al-Rawda, open to all.
- Broader Fair Activities – The Islamic Book Fair continues until May 3, featuring daily literary and cultural events promoting intellectual dialogue.
On Monday morning, Shawwal 23, 1446 AH / April 21, 2025, the 47th Islamic Book Fair was inaugurated under the slogan "Towards a Civilizational Awareness."
This event is organized by the Social Reform Society at its headquarters in the Al-Rawda area, under the generous patronage of the Minister of Information and Culture and Minister of State for Youth Affairs, Abdul Rahman Al-Mutairi. The opening was attended by Dr. Khaled Al-Mathkur Al- Al-Mathkur, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Social Reform Society, along with several board members and a distinguished crowd of those interested in cultural and religious affairs.
The fair was honored by the presence of the Deputy Qatari Ambassador Ali bin Abdullah Zaid Al-Mahmoud, Turkish Ambassador Tuba Nur Sönmez, and a number of political, cultural, and religious leaders, in addition to participating authors and publishing houses.
The opening conference began with a speech by Saham Al-Dawwas Al-Azmi, Director of the National Library and representative of the Minister of Information, who emphasized the importance of reading and culture, praised the efforts of the Social Reform Society in spreading culture and awareness, and its commitment to preserving the Arab and Islamic identity through the Islamic Book Fair that it organizes each year. She expressed her happiness that this fair coincides with Kuwait being chosen as the Capital of Arab Culture.
In her speech, Al-Azmi expressed gratitude and appreciation to His Highness the Amir of Kuwait Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, may Allah protect him, the Minister of Information, and the gentlemen responsible for the fair, as well as the esteemed attendees.
In his speech, Dr. Khaled Al- Al-Mathkur, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Social Reform Society , expressed his thanks and appreciation to His Highness the Amir of Kuwait Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, may Allah protect him, the Minister of Information and Culture and his representative at the opening ceremony, and the participating gentlemen, attendees, and visitors from all over the world.
Dr. Al-Mathkur emphasized the importance of conscious reading and Islamic culture, stating that the Islamic Book Fair is not just an annual event; rather, it is a means to spread moderate thought and a message to support culture and preserve our Arab and Islamic identity. He noted that the Social Reform Society has taken this mission upon itself for the 47th consecutive year and will continue its efforts alongside the State of Kuwait as the Capital of Arab Culture, engaging those interested in knowledge and awareness throughout the Arab and Islamic world.
The 47th Islamic Book Fair commenced its activities with an unprecedented public turnout, as students from schools and universities, along with those interested in Islamic and Arab culture, intellectuals, and literary figures flocked to the fair, along with widespread participation from authors and publishing houses from around the world to witness this distinguished annual cultural event that unites knowledge and faith, and identity.
The International Islamic Charitable Organization Participates in the 47th Islamic Book Fair
As part of its ongoing efforts to spread awareness and knowledge and to promote a culture of charitable work, the International Islamic Charitable Organization is participating in the 47th Islamic Book Fair, organized by the Social Reform Society at its headquarters in the Al-Rawda area. The fair will take place from April 21 to May 3, 2025, under the slogan "Towards a Civilizational Awareness," with participation from a selection of publishing houses and official entities from within and outside Kuwait.
The organization is represented at the fair by the International Center for Studies on Charitable Work through a special booth (Booth 31), where it showcases its most significant intellectual and research publications addressing issues of charitable work and human development. This is part of its efforts to deepen community awareness of the role of charitable work in advancing societies and emphasizing the organization’s practices based on established scientific and methodological principles and studied experiences.
Islamic Book Fair Continues Its Activities on the First Day
The "Islamic Book Fair," organized by the Social Reform Society, continued its activities in its 47th edition under the slogan "Towards Cultural Awareness" at the association's headquarters in the Al-Rawda area. During the evening of the fair, many visitors flocked to the event, which featured a variety of activities organized by the fair's coordinators. Among these activities was the "Genius Challenge" competition, which kicked off its first round on the fair's opening night, Monday, April 21. It consisted of 8 teams divided into two phases. The first phase included 4 teams: "The Distinguished," "The Elite," "Youth of the Call," and "The Merengi." The competition was managed and judged by Mohammad Al-Shammari, an expert in organizing competitions, and included 20 questions covering the Quran, the Sunnah, history, geography, Islamic culture, medicine, and the animal and plant world. The first phase ended with the victory of "The Distinguished" team, which scored 4 points more than "Youth of the Call," 6 points more than "The Elite," and 7 points more than "The Merengi."
In the same context, the second phase of the first round of the competition comprised 4 other teams: "The Stars," "Abu Ashma," "Uthman ibn Affan," and "The Kamali." This phase also consisted of 20 questions; however, the questions in this phase were considered somewhat challenging by the audience. After fierce competition lasting over 20 minutes, the phase concluded with "The Stars" team winning by 3 points over "Abu Ashma" and "The Kamali" teams, and 7 points over "Uthman ibn Affan."
Thus, "The Distinguished" team (in the first phase) and "The Stars" team (in the second phase) advanced to the semi-final round, and the competition attracted significant interaction among social media followers and attendees at the fair. The activities of the 47th Islamic Book Fair are scheduled to continue daily until they conclude on Saturday, May 3.
Events on the Second Day of the 47th Islamic Book Fair
The 47th Islamic Book Fair, organized by the Social Reform Society at its headquarters in the Al-Rawda area, continued its activities under the slogan "Towards Cultural Awareness," with the generous sponsorship of the Minister of Information and Culture and Minister of State for Youth Affairs Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi. On the second day of the fair (April 22), there was a noticeable increase in activities, which began with the "Prophetic Biography Competition," organized by the Islamic Education Guidance in the Hawalli area, with the participation of 8 schools. This competition included a variety of questions about religion and the Prophetic biography, concluding with the honoring of the participating students and encouraging them to seek knowledge and to embrace their Islamic and Arab identity.
Meanwhile, the evening period of the fair continued the "Genius Challenge" competition that had started the previous day. The challenge consisted of 8 teams divided into two phases, with the first phase featuring 4 teams: "The Happiness," "The Ansar," "The Elite," and "The Farooq." Mohammad Al-Shammari managed and judged this cultural competition, which included 20 questions on the Quran, the Sunnah, history, geography, Islamic culture, medicine, and the animal and plant world. The first phase ended with "The Ansar" team winning.
In the same context, the second phase of the second round of the competition consisted of 4 other teams: "The Family," "The Kings," "The Chosen One," and "The Rest Area." This phase also included 20 questions, and after a challenge characterized by competitive spirit lasting over 30 minutes, "The Chosen One" team emerged victorious over the other participating teams.
Thus, the teams "Al-Ansar" (in the first stage) and "Al-Mukhtar" (in the second stage) advanced to the semi-finals, and the competition received significant interaction from the attendees and followers on social media platforms.
Additionally, the "Challenge of Geniuses" competition will continue tomorrow, Wednesday, April 23, along with a literary forum on "The Role of Poetry and Literature in Civilizational Awareness," attended by Dr. Saad Maslooh (Sheikh of Linguists) and Dr. Muhammad Hassan Al-Tayyeb (Sheikh of Rhetoricians), as well as the Kuwaiti writer and literary figure Talal Al-Aamer.
The activities of the 47th Islamic Book Fair are scheduled to continue daily until the end of its events on Saturday, May 3.
The Literary Forum of the Islamic Book Fair... Figures in Rhetoric Speak
Under the title "The Role of Poetry and Literature in Civilizational Awareness," the 47th Islamic Book Fair organizes a literary forum to enhance the role of literature and poetry in forming the civilizational awareness of nations and peoples, especially given that the Islamic nation is in urgent need of reshaping its civilizational awareness on foundations based on its cultural and religious identity. Poetry and literature are considered among the most important tools for this awakening, due to their capacity to revive heritage, instill values, and stir the collective spirit.
The Islamic Book Fair, organized by the Social Reform Society at its headquarters in Al-Rawda, has entrusted this forum to three distinguished figures in Arabic language, poetry, and Islamic literature: Prof. Dr. Saad Maslooh, known as "the Sheikh of Contemporary Linguists," is a prominent Egyptian writer, university professor, and creative poet who has managed to combine authenticity and modernity, and he has many publications in heritage, translation, and modern linguistic studies. Dr. Maslooh also received the Sheikh Zayed Book Award in translation in 2009.
Among the notable figures participating in this forum is Dr. Muhammad Hassan Al-Tayyeb, known as "the Sheikh of Rhetoricians," a Syrian linguistic scholar, university professor, investigator, and correspondent member of the Arabic Language Academy in Damascus, in addition to being a member of the International Association for Islamic Literature and a member of the scientific council of the Doha Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Language.
Due to the importance of literature and poetry in advocacy, rhetoric, and preserving Islamic identity, the Kuwaiti preacher and speaker Talal Al-Aamer will also participate in this forum. He is known as an eloquent orator and a fluent writer, regarded as one of the most prominent preachers who combine knowledge and eloquence. Due to his strong interest in the field of Islamic literature, he authored "The Kuwaiti Diwan in Praise of the Prophet," collecting poems from 15 Kuwaiti poets in praise of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). This diwan is considered one of the significant literary works shedding light on the art of praise in Kuwait.
The literary forum is scheduled to take place at 8 PM on Wednesday, April 23, at the auditorium of the Social Reform Society in Al-Rawda, with attendance open to both men and women.
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Events of the Second Day of the 47th Islamic Book Fair
The 47th Islamic Book Fair, organized by the Social Reform Society at its headquarters in the Al-Rawda area, continued its activities under the slogan "Toward Civilizational Awareness," with generous patronage from the Minister of Information, Culture, and State Minister for Youth Affairs, Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi.
The second day of the fair (April 22) witnessed a notable increase in its activities, which began with the "Prophetic Biography Competition" organized by the Islamic Education Guidance in Hawalli, with participation from 8 schools. The competition included a variety of questions about religion and the prophetic biography, and concluded with the honoring of the participating students and encouraging them to seek knowledge, explore, and hold on to their Islamic and Arabic identity.
While the evening period of the exhibition continued, the "Challenge of Geniuses" competition, which began yesterday, was held. The challenge consisted of 8 teams divided into two phases. The first phase began with 4 teams: "Al-Saadah," "Al-Ansar," "Al-Nukhbah," and "Al-Farooq." Mohammed Al-Shammari, a specialist in preparing and organizing competitions, managed and judged the cultural competition, which comprised 20 questions covering the Quran, the Sunnah, history, geography, legal culture, medicine, and the animal and plant worlds. The first phase concluded with the victory of "Al-Ansar" team.
In the same context, the second phase of the second round of the competition involved another 4 teams: "Al-Ahel," "Al-Muluk," "Al-Mukhtar," and "Al-Istiraha." This phase also included 20 questions. After a contest filled with competitive spirit that lasted more than 30 minutes, the "Al-Mukhtar" team emerged victorious over the other participating teams.
Thus, the "Al-Ansar" team (in the first phase) and the "Al-Mukhtar" team (in the second phase) advanced to the semi-finals, and the competition received significant interaction from the audience and followers on social media platforms.
Moreover, the "Challenge of Geniuses" competition will continue tomorrow, Wednesday, April 23, in addition to holding a literary forum on "The Role of Poetry and Literature in Cultural Awareness" with the presence of Dr. Saad Muslih (Sheikh of Linguists) and Dr. Mohammed Hossan Al-Tayar (Sheikh of Rhetoricians), along with the Kuwaiti writer and novelist Talal Al-Amer.
The activities of the 47th Islamic Book Fair are scheduled to continue daily until the conclusion of its events on Saturday, May 3.
For the third consecutive day... Increased attendance and remarkable interaction at the 47th Islamic Book Fair
In a vibrant cultural scene that combines the spirit of faith and authenticity of knowledge, the 47th Islamic Book Fair continues its activities for the third consecutive day, since its launch on the morning of Monday, April 21, amid notable public attendance and wide participation from educational bodies, publishing houses, and a array of thinkers, intellectuals, and those interested in Islamic cultural affairs.
Training Course for Islamic Education Teachers
The fair began its third day by organizing a specialized training course entitled "Cultural Formation for Islamic Education Teachers," presented by Dr. Abdulaziz Al-Kandari from the Guidance Administration in the Ministry of Education. The course aims to develop cultural skills among Islamic education teachers, providing them with the necessary knowledge and methodological tools to build a comprehensive cultural awareness that stems from Islamic fundamentals and interacts with the contemporary era.
The course addressed the important role of teachers in instilling authentic Islamic values and concepts, and how to employ culture as an effective educational lever that contributes to building a generation that adheres to its identity while being open to the knowledge of science with a critical and conscious spirit. A collection of sources and references that teachers can refer to for systematically and balanced enriching their cultural stock was also presented.
Student Competition... With a Joyful Spirit
Among the most prominent events of the third day was the "Islamic Education Guidance Competition for the Mubarak Al-Kabeer Educational Area," which involved 8 schools: Al-Jahra Private School, Algeria Secondary School, Al-Qayrawan, Al-Saiygh, Um Al-Banin, Al-Salibia, Rehana bint Zaid, and Doha.
The competition included a variety of axes combining religious information, prophetic biography, and ethical situations, in addition to interactive kinetic activities that instilled in the students a spirit of enthusiasm and teamwork.
The competition witnessed significant interaction among the students, where an atmosphere of honorable competition and collective joy prevailed, reflecting the importance of linking religious knowledge with modern educational methods that engage students in the educational process and nurture their spirit of self-learning.
Arabic Calligraphy: Art and Identity
In another corner of the exhibition, there was a workshop on Arabic calligraphy presented by the renowned calligrapher Hussein Al-Sari, representing "Al-Sari Art for Publishing and Distribution." This workshop was one of the prominent artistic stations on the third day and targeted school students visiting the exhibition, providing them with a hands-on experience in dealing with Arabic calligraphy by allowing them to write their names or selected phrases on various gifts that carried a personal and aesthetic touch.
The workshop aimed to strengthen the students' connection to this ancient Islamic art and link them to the aesthetics of Arabic writing, which is one of the most significant manifestations of Islamic and artistic identity, through which the pages of civilization were woven.
Public Attendance
Since its opening, the 47th Islamic Book Fair has witnessed an increasing public turnout, as crowds of school and university students, pioneers of Islamic thought and culture, in addition to a select group of writers, intellectuals, and researchers, have flocked to the event. There has also been active participation from publishing houses and educational institutions both from within Kuwait and abroad.
This year, the fair is distinguished by unprecedented momentum in its activities and a rich variety in its cultural and educational programs that target various age groups and intellectual interests, in a diligent effort to reinforce Islamic identity and highlight the authenticity of Arab culture in a modern knowledge framework that meets the aspirations of generations. 
It represents one of the most important annual cultural events in Kuwait, carrying intellectual, educational, and advocacy dimensions that contribute to linking society to its civilizational roots and enhancing its awareness of its cognitive and spiritual issues amidst rapid changes and increasing challenges. 
It is worth noting that the 47th Islamic Book Fair, organized by the Social Reform Society at its headquarters in the Al-Rawda area under the slogan "Towards Civilizational Awareness," is held under the generous patronage of the Minister of Information and Culture and Minister of State for Youth Affairs Abdul Rahman Al-Mutairi. The fair opened its doors from April 21 to May 3, 2025, with participation from over 120 entities and publishing houses, including international participations from Gulf countries, the Levant, Jordan, Egypt, Iraq, Turkey, Maghreb countries, as well as publishing houses from European countries.
