College of Islamic Studies CIS Hamad Bin Khalifa University Hamad Bin Khalifa University

A faculty member at Hamad Bin Khalifa University’s (HBKU) College of Islamic Studies (CIS) recently led a youth-oriented workshop on the impact of climate change and the transformative role of younger generations. Dr. Evren Tok, Associate Professor, Program Coordinator for the MA program in Islam and Global Affairs, and Assistant Dean for Innovation and Community Development, led a workshop on Exploring Climate Change and Global Citizenship through Lego Serious Play. The workshop witnessed the online participation of more than 50 active students, who explored themes related to responsibility and involvement in addressing the negative impacts of climate change. Attendees reflected on LEGO Serious Play models using virtual concept boards prepared in accordance with human-centered design methodologies. Dr Tok’s efforts were supported by Bayan Khaled and Sanskriti Tandon, both research fellows at CIS. 

The EMPOWER 2020 Youth Conference’s theme this year was Youth Mobilization for Inclusion, Peace and Security. The conference’s overarching aims emphasized sustainable development for a more inclusive and just world. Held under the umbrella of Education Above All (EAA), this year’s edition witnessed the high-level attendance of HE Saleh bin Ghanem Al Ali, Minister of Culture and Sports; HE Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif Al-Thani, Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar to the United Nations; Ms. Jayathyma Wickkramanayake, United Nations Secretary General’s Youth Envoy; and Mr. Achaleke Christian Leke, Pan-Commonwealth Coordinator of the Commonwealth Youth Ambassadors.

More details on EAA’s EMPOWER 2020 Youth Conference can be found at www.educationaboveall.org. Information about HBKU and CIS can be found at cis.hbku.edu.qa.