SKA Representatives Participate in UNESCO Conference Honoring the 815th Birth Anniversary of Rumi

Paris, France / Toronto, Canada — The Sayed Kayan Association (SKA) proudly took part in the international conference hosted at the headquarters of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in Paris, marking the 815th birth anniversary of the Persian poet, mystic, and philosopher Jalaluddin Mohammad Balkhi Rumi (known worldwide as Rumi).

The gathering, held from June 5–8, 2024, was organized at the initiative of the Government of Tajikistan in collaboration with UNESCO and the Rudaki Association. Scholars, writers, and Rumi experts from around the world convened to celebrate the universal legacy of one of history’s greatest poets.

SKA’s Representation

Recognizing the importance of cultural and literary engagement at the international level, SKA ensured its participation with two delegates:

• Dr. Fazel Sharifi, member of SKA’s Advisory Board, contributed a scholarly paper titled “Rumi: A Poet of Illumination.” His research was accepted by the conference’s scientific committee and formally presented under the theme “Human Rights in the Thought of Rumi.” His presentation was warmly received by fellow scholars and participants.
• Engineer Mohammad Arif Nazari, a senior member of SKA based in France, also attended, representing the Association in meetings with conference organizers, cultural leaders, and international participants.

Together, the two delegates embodied SKA’s commitment to advancing Afghan cultural voices on the global stage and fostering connections across the Persian-speaking world and beyond.

Cultural and Academic Engagements

In addition to presenting research, SKA’s representatives engaged with prominent figures including the President of the Rudaki Association, the President of the Writers’ Association of Tajikistan, and several international scholars. Discussions focused on developing bilateral and multilateral collaborations, hosting joint cultural programs, and creating platforms for continued dialogue and knowledge exchange.

The scientific program of the conference opened with addresses by the Minister of Culture of Tajikistan, the Deputy Director-General of UNESCO, the Deputy President of Tajikistan, and ambassadors of Tajikistan, Iran, and Turkey. A total of 33 academic papers were presented across six thematic areas.

Beyond the academic sessions, the commemoration also featured exhibitions of books, displays of Tajik national dress, concerts, and musical performances inspired by Rumi’s poetry.

SKA’s Commitment

Through its participation, the Sayed Kayan Association reaffirmed its mission to promote Afghan cultural and literary heritage, strengthen academic engagement, and contribute to global cultural dialogue. The Association extends its gratitude to the organizers for the invitation and looks forward to building on the connections made during this historic gathering.