By Adan Mohamed - Reporter
July 23, 2026 - Mandera Governor Mohamed Adan Khalif has called on member states of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to strengthen collaboration in education, scientific research, and innovation, saying partnerships are critical to finding lasting solutions to global development challenges.
Governor Khalif made the remarks while addressing the Inter-Islamic Forum for the Advancement of Education, Scientific Research, and Innovation, organized by COMSTECH, the OIC's Standing Committee on Scientific and Technological Cooperation, in Islamabad, Pakistan.
The forum brought together ambassadors, diplomats, vice-chancellors, scientists, researchers, and scholars from across OIC member states to promote cooperation in higher education, scientific research, technological innovation, and knowledge ,
Governor Khalif noted the importance of investing in education and innovation as a pathway to sustainable development.
"Education, scientific research, and innovation are the foundations upon which sustainable development is built.They are a key source of economic transformation, improve livelihoods, and strengthen our resilience against emerging global challenges," he said.
The Governor urged governments, universities, research institutions, industry leaders, and international partners to work together to ensure scientific discoveries are translated into practical solutions that benefit communities.
"The challenges facing our communities back at home including climate change, food insecurity, healthcare needs, and youth unemployment cannot be addressed in isolation. They require robust partnerships among universities, research institutions, governments, and the private sector," Governor Khalif said.
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He noted that stronger collaboration would accelerate innovation in healthcare, agriculture, climate resilience, digital transformation, and economic growth, while creating more opportunities for young people across the Muslim world.
Governor Khalif also praised COMSTECH for promoting scientific excellence and strengthening technological cooperation among OIC member states.
"I commend COMSTECH for its continued leadership in advancing scientific excellence, capacity building, and technological cooperation.
We remain committed to strengthening institutional linkages and fostering joint research initiatives that will deliver meaningful development outcomes for our people," he added
The Governor reiterated the Mandera County Government's commitment to supporting innovation, strengthening partnerships with academic and research institutions, and advancing initiatives that use science and technology to improve livelihoods and promote sustainable development.
The forum concluded with hopes from participating countries to deepen cooperation in education, research, and innovation as key pillars for achieving inclusive and sustainable growth across the Muslim world.