Jordan Daily – As part of preparations for the 8th Arab Youth Congress scheduled for early 2026, the Arab Thought Forum, in cooperation with the University of Petra, held a youth session titled “Arab Youth: The Future Face of the Arab World” at the university’s Anbat Theater.
The event, attended by University President Prof. Rami Abdel Rahem, faculty members, and a large student audience, aimed to engage young people in discussing key issues ahead of the upcoming conference.
Forum Secretary-General Dr. Sadeq Al-Faqih highlighted the central role of youth in Arab renaissance, noting that since its establishment in 1981 by Prince El Hassan bin Talal, the Forum has focused on empowering young generations and promoting intellectual renewal.
Former Minister Dr. Abdullah Oweidat stressed intergenerational dialogue and genuine citizenship based on merit and justice, while Syrian writer Dr. Mohammed Al-Hourani called for youth participation in decision-making and using digital platforms to promote sustainable development.
The second session, moderated by Prof. Mahmoud Al-Salman, explored topics including development, artificial intelligence, and drug prevention. Dr. Mahmoud Al-Sarhan, Secretary-General of the Arab Youth Forum, urged realistic policies to support youth empowerment, describing it as “an investment in the future.”
Dr. Nour Al-Kubaissi from Iraq warned of rising drug abuse and called for AI-driven prevention strategies, while Dr. Ziad Abdullah from Lebanon emphasized the potential of AI to strengthen Arab youth’s role in the digital economy.
A lively discussion followed, with students sharing views on advancing youth participation in national development and decision-making.
