Friendship Committee between Peoples

Overview:

The Youth and Friendship Committee among Peoples is a distinguished body within the Union of Afro-Asian Universities (UAAU) dedicated to fostering intercultural dialogue, mutual respect, and enduring friendship among youth across continents. By creating dynamic platforms for cultural exchange, educational collaboration, and social innovation, the committee seeks to build bridges between diverse communities and empower young leaders to become ambassadors of peace, unity, and sustainable development.

Leadership

Prof.Dr. Zain Al-Abidin Rajab

Head of the Youth and Friendship Committee among Peoples
Helwan University, Egypt

Mission:

To empower youth and nurture meaningful interpersonal connections across cultural boundaries through initiatives that promote dialogue, understanding, and collaborative action, thereby contributing to a more harmonious, inclusive, and resilient global society.

Vision:

To be recognized as the premier forum for youth engagement and intercultural friendship, transforming the potential of young people into positive social change and establishing enduring networks that transcend geographic, cultural, and ideological divides.

Core Values:

  • Youth Empowerment: Championing the active participation and leadership of young people in shaping a better future.
  • Friendship and Unity: Fostering genuine, lasting relationships that bridge cultural and geographical boundaries.
  • Inclusivity: Embracing diversity and ensuring that all voices are heard and respected.
  • Cultural Exchange: Promoting the sharing of traditions, ideas, and innovations as a foundation for mutual understanding.
  • Collaboration: Leveraging partnerships and collective expertise to create impactful and sustainable initiatives.
  • Innovation: Utilizing creative and modern approaches to engage youth and stimulate intercultural dialogue.

Strategic Objectives and Initiatives:

1. Youth Engagement and Empowerment

  • Leadership Development: Organize youth leadership programs, mentoring initiatives, and skill-building workshops that equip young individuals with the tools for effective leadership and community engagement.
  • Exchange Programs: Facilitate academic and cultural exchange programs that enable youth to experience diverse educational and social environments, enhancing cross-cultural competencies.

2. Promotion of Intercultural Friendship

  • Cultural Exchange Initiatives: Develop and host international festivals, dialogue sessions, and creative workshops that celebrate the artistic and cultural heritage of Afro-Asian communities.
  • Digital Platforms: Establish an online portal for youth to share their experiences, ideas, and creative projects, thereby nurturing virtual communities that reinforce global friendship.

3. Collaborative Research and Community Projects

  • Interdisciplinary Research: Support collaborative research projects that explore themes of intercultural understanding, social innovation, and the role of youth in promoting global peace.
  • Community Engagement: Launch initiatives that encourage youth-led community development projects, enhancing local and regional social cohesion through collective action.

4. Advocacy for Global Peace and Inclusion

  • Policy Dialogue: Engage with governmental agencies, NGOs, and international organizations to advocate for policies that promote inclusivity, diversity, and the empowerment of young people in decision-making processes.
  • Awareness Campaigns: Implement targeted campaigns that highlight the importance of intercultural dialogue and friendship, reinforcing the values of tolerance and mutual respect.

5. Capacity Building and Digital Innovation

  • Training Programs: Conduct workshops and seminars on digital citizenship, intercultural communication, and leadership to prepare youth for global challenges.
  • Virtual Engagement: Leverage digital tools and social media to create interactive and accessible platforms for global youth collaboration, ensuring widespread participation and impact.