UNESCO Director in a Panel Discussion at the BA
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Alexandria—Ms. Irina Bokova, Director of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) visited the BA, on Monday, 7 December 2009, accompanied by a high profile delegation.
Ms. Bokova toured the Library’s projects and services, in addition to its main facilities. A Panel Discussion entitled “Egypt and UNESCO: Future Perspective” was held following the tour. The discussion was moderated by Dr. Ismail Serageldin, Director of the Library of Alexandria, and panelists were Dr. Hany Helal, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research; Dr. Yousry Elgamal, Minister of Education, Mrs. Yousrya Sawiress, Sawiris Foundation for Social Development; Dr. Hossam Badrawi, Chair of the Education Committee at the Peoples’ Assembly; Dr. Eman El-Kafass, Professor at the American University in Cairo; Dr. Mounir Nametallah and Mrs. Anissa Hassouna, Civil Society Activists.
General Adel Labib, Governor of Alexandria; Dr. Hend Hanafy, Head of Alexandria University; in addition to officials in the fields of education, science, culture, and media attended the discussion.
At the onset of her speech, Bokova expressed her delight on visiting the BA, “a dream for every European”, and added that she is proud of what UNESCO has done for the construction of this temple of civilization and knowledge.
The first woman ever to be elected UNESCO Director listed some of the challenges facing today’s world, believing that UNESCO is the best place to give some solutions. “Had the international organization not been invented after the Second World War, we would have created it now. More challenges are arising, on top of which is lack of respect for others”, added Bokova.
She spoke about the new UNESCO theme - “UNESCO in a Globalized World: New Humanism in the 21st Century”. She emphasized that her policies will focus on good governance, multilateralism, cultural diversity, high quality inclusive education, world heritage, identity and the environment, with special attention to the human aspect.
Ms. Irina Bokova , the newly elected UNESCO Director ended with a note of hope, calling for the participation of all: UNESCO staff, member states, civil society, youth and officials.