05/05/2023
I am honoured to have attended the General Assembly of the International Islamic Federation of Student Organizations (IIFSO), held on the 1st and 2nd of May 2023 in Turkey, representing Sri Lanka as a delegate for the second time.
The IIFSO is an esteemed international federation of student and youth organizations, affiliated with the United Nations, with a membership of approximately 100 youth organizations across more than 70 countries. Since its establishment in 1969, the IIFSO has been committed to promoting the interests and welfare of Muslim youth worldwide.
The first day of the General Assembly featured a series of enlightening stage talks and discussions, where representatives from various organizations presented their commendable works. The Assembly was a splendid opportunity for me to learn about the diverse activities and initiatives undertaken by different student and youth organizations across the globe. I also had the chance to establish robust connections and forge new friendships with several participants from different nations, such as Indonesia, Jordan, South Africa, Malaysia, India, and the UK.
On the second day of the Assembly, we held the election for the Secretary-General position. I am delighted to share that my friend, Dr Faizal, was elected as the new Secretary General with a majority of the votes. During the separate meeting for the South Asian region, we discussed future collaborations and decided to send the SOI President to the Exco. Several other candidates were also selected for the Shoorah board. Dr Faisal promised to work with new strategies and better management in the future.
The General Assembly was a great success, fostering networking opportunities and collaborations amongst student and youth organizations from all around the world.
I had the pleasure of meeting several distinguished individuals, Among them Mr Zerkani Sliman, the youngest parliamentarian of Algeria, Dr. Omer Faruk, the former chief of staff of the prime minister of Turkey, Mr. Abdulla Faiz, the National Secretary of SIO India, and Mr Enes Yalman, the former Secretary General of IIFSO.
I am grateful for the opportunity to attend the IIFSO General Assembly and represent Sri Lanka. I am confident that the relationships and collaborations formed during the Assembly will pave the way for the future success of Islamic youth organizations globally.
