Closing of the Knowledge Society Symposium
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Alexandria, 5 February 2006—the Second Knowledge Society Symposium was concluded on 2 February 2006 at the BA. The Symposium was attended by a group of scholars, researchers, and university professors chaired by Dr. Ismail Serageldin, Director of the Library of Alexandria and Dr. David Arnold, President of the American University in Cairo. Participants gave their proposals and recommendations at the conclusion of the symposium"s proceedings where they referred to the necessity of pursuing such meetings to effectuate the role of scholars in developing their societies and in preparing future generations. Participants also stressed the need for further steps in scientific research, case studies, as well as the enrollment of the private sector in the development process.
The issue of university and school education and the preparation of students to meet future challenges were also highlighted during the symposium. The recommendations also included the training of teachers academically and professionally. Participants referred to the necessity of focusing on certain areas to reach more precise results and to develop policies to face future challenges.
During the closing session, participants called for putting their words into action and including the public in the development process. Dr. Ismail Serageldin added that recommendations are not mere words and that these words will make history. He also mentioned that participants focused their deliberations on changing the society into a knowledge based society and on promoting openness that could never be accomplished in an atmosphere of ethnical or religious discrimination. Finally, Dr. Serageldin added that no policy adopted by a society today would be suitable for future challenges.