RIYADH: The first coordination meeting for Islamic universities and affiliated institutions of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation took place in Jeddah on Tuesday. The OIC operates five affiliated and subsidiary universities in member states: Islamic University of Technology in Bangladesh, International Islamic University in Malaysia, Islamic University in Uganda, Islamic University of Niger and King Faisal University in Chad. These institutions are central to the organization’s higher education initiatives. OIC Secretary-General Hissein Brahim Taha highlighted the role universities have to play in shaping the future of societies by influencing the development of young people. He affirmed the organization’s support for Islamic universities and stressed the importance of participation in their events for fostering constructive interaction between the OIC and higher education. He also underscored the significance of the Islamic world and emphasized the potential for fruitful cooperation to generate innovative ideas and opportunities for young people. Taha highlighted key challenges, including poverty, climate change, adapting to technological advancements, addressing labor-market conditions and prioritizing girls’ education. The coordination meeting aims to foster dialogue and the exchange of experiences in the academic and administrative sectors. It provides a platform for coordination and cooperation between Islamic universities and affiliated institutions.