The Organization of Islamic Cooperation’s Standing Committee on Scientific and Technological Cooperation (COMSTECH), in collaboration with UNI and leading Chinese technical institutions, has launched a series of Online Digital Courses aimed at enhancing skills development, digital literacy, and human capital across OIC Member States.
The virtual launching ceremony brought together senior academic leaders, policymakers, and industry representatives from across the OIC region and partner countries. Prominent participants included Cheng Shuqiang, President of Shaanxi Technical College of Finance and Economics; Kang Kun, Vice President of Henan Institute of Economics and Trade; Wu Jiaoyu, President of Guangzhou Songtian Polytechnic College; and Wang Peng, Managing Director of ITMC Technology Co. Ltd.
Addressing the event, Coordinator General OIC-COMSTECH Prof Dr Muhammad Iqbal Choudhary highlighted the transformative potential of digital education in responding to contemporary socio-economic and technological challenges faced by the Muslim world. He noted that education has historically been a cornerstone of progress in Islamic civilization and that digital learning platforms are now extending this legacy into the modern era of globalization and innovation.
Dr. Choudhary emphasized that the initiative acts as a bridge connecting learners across borders, ensuring access to quality education beyond geographical limitations through technology and international cooperation. He disclosed that 530 students have enrolled in the first phase of the program, reflecting strong interest from across regions.
Participants in the inaugural phase represent 15 countries, including Somalia, Kenya, Nigeria, Mauritania, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Gambia, Yemen, Indonesia, Chad, Malaysia, China, the United Arab Emirates, and Gabon, underscoring the initiative’s broad international reach and inclusivity.
The courses focus on future-oriented disciplines such as data science, artificial intelligence, digital entrepreneurship, renewable energy, and public health. These areas have been selected to equip students with market-relevant skills, improve employability, and support innovation-led and sustainable development in participating countries.
The ceremony also underscored the growing importance of South–South cooperation and academic–industry partnerships in advancing science, technology, and innovation. UNI and ITMC Technology Co. Ltd. were acknowledged for their key roles in curriculum development, digital infrastructure, and technical support, ensuring effective cross-border delivery of online education.
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The launch marks another significant milestone in OIC-COMSTECH’s continued efforts to promote capacity building, knowledge sharing, and technological advancement among OIC Member States, reaffirming its commitment to inclusive, sustainable, and knowledge-driven development through education.
