Sharjah: The Forum for Intellectual Security in Islam at the College of Sharia and Islamic Studies, University of Sharjah, recently held an academic symposium titled 'The Sustainability of Knowledge Security' aimed at promoting Islamic values and raising awareness on protecting minds from extremism.
According to Emirates News Agency, the event brought together Dr. Abdullah Belheif Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Consultative Council, alongside university officials, faculty, researchers, and students from various disciplines. The symposium focused on instilling appreciation for intellectual security, encouraging tolerance, coexistence, and moderation, and countering extremist ideologies. Organisers highlighted the importance of cooperation between state institutions and research centres to establish legal and ethical foundations that reinforce the UAE's principles of tolerance and renouncing violence.
Professor Qutb Al-Raisouni, Dean of the College of Sharia and Islamic Studies, stressed that intellectual security is vital for sustainable social development and for preserving cultural and religious identity. He noted that the forum regularly organises lectures, workshops, and conferences to protect youth from radical thought. Dr Abdulrahman Abdullatif, Director of the Forum, said the symposium reflects the University of Sharjah's mission to advance research and provide a safe intellectual environment that promotes moderation and balance.
In his keynote address, Dr Abdullah Belheif Al Nuaimi emphasised the role of universities in producing and protecting knowledge, and the responsibility of national media in promoting sound ideas. He called for a national observatory to monitor deviant ideologies and urged a unified response to counter extremism.
The event concluded with Prof Yousef Haik, Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, honouring Dr Al Nuaimi and Dr Mahdi Qais Al-Janabi, Associate Professor at the College of Sharia and Islamic Studies and former director of the forum, for their contributions to advancing the forum's mission.