A delegation from Duke University, in the U.S., on Tuesday visited the headquarters of the Rabat-based Bayt Mal Al-Quds Asharif Agency (BMAQ), according to a press release issued by the Agency.
The group of students and professors is currently engaged in a week-long research trip to the Kingdom to research Arab literature, culture and issues of the Arab region.
They were introduced to the Agency affiliated with the Al-Quds Committee, chaired by King Mohammed VI. They learned about the institution’s “specialties, capabilities and roles in Jerusalem’s protection and cultural heritage preservation.”
The host committee introduced the Agency’s social and humanitarian efforts in Al-Quds (the Arabic name of Jerusalem), including “human development, social welfare programs, restoration and reconstruction projects.”
The delegation was also informed of the BMAQ’s “educational, women’s rights, and youth empowerment initiatives, as well as its childcare programs.”
The university community received details concerning BMAQ’s recently announced digital strategy for 2024-2027, which focuses on innovation and empowerment of the Palestinian Youth in Jerusalem. The Moroccan Cultural Center – Bayt Al-Maghreb in Jerusalem’s Old City, which seeks to “promote tolerance, peace, and harmony,” was also presented.
Bruce Lawrence, Head of the Department of Religion at the university, Miriam Cooke, a Middle Eastern and Arab world studies specialist, and Imbay Lo Bashir, a Professor of Asian and Middle Eastern Studies and Comparative Religion, led the American delegation consisting of seven students.
BMAQ is a Moroccan institution focused on humanitarian and social issues in Al-Quds. Established in 1998, BMAQ operates to safeguard the holy city of Al-Quds, preserve its religious and cultural heritage, and support its inhabitants.