Al-Azhar Observatory for Combating Extremism (AOCE) received a high-level delegation from the UK's Royal College of Defence Studies, led by Mr. Philip Parham, reflecting the keenness of the British academic institution towards fostering collaborative efforts and exchanging scholarly expertise with the AOCE in the realms of countering extremism and terrorism.
During the meeting, Dr. Reham Salama, Executive Director of AOCE, provided a comprehensive presentation on the AOCE’s most prominent publications and initiatives, which included its English-language quarterly magazine, "Step Forward," a specialized periodical that delivers thorough analyses of contemporary issues pertinent to extremism and terrorism while articulating a counter-narrative designed to enhance public consciousness.
Further, Dr. Reham Salama elaborated on the operational mechanisms employed by AOCE, encompassing the systematic monitoring, analysis, and generation of statistical data, including the monthly index that examines the most recent recorded terrorist attacks in Africa and their motives. She emphasized that such methodological approach is instrumental in facilitating intellectual development among youth and fostering critical thinking, as well as promoting rigorous research efforts among young people to avoid falling prey to any extremist groups.
At the conclusion of this fruitful meeting, the Royal College of Defence Studies delegation expressed their deep appreciation for AOCE's tireless efforts in combating extremism and raising awareness among youth.