As part of its pioneering role in countering extremist ideology, the Al-Azhar Observatory for Combating Extremism delivered an extensive academic lecture to a visiting delegation from the Islamic University of Maldives. The event was held under the generous patronage of Professor Mahmoud Seddiq, Acting President of Al-Azhar University, and under the supervision of Dr. Reham Salama, Executive Director of the AOCE.
This engagement came in the framework of the Maldivian delegation's participation in a specialized training program on the “Methods and Strategies for Teaching the Glorious Qur'an and Its Sciences,” organized by the Al-Azhar University’s International Center of Excellence and Institutional Development, headed by Prof. Yasser Helmy.
Delivered by Dr. Abdullah Abdeen, Head of the AOCE English Unit, the lecture outlined the mechanisms the AOCE employs to moniter the movements and activities of terrorist organizations across various media and digital platforms. During the session, Dr. Abdeen emphasized that the strategy of the AOCE goes beyond the mere tracking and analysis of terrorist phenomena. It actively seeks to dismantle extremist discourse at its roots, refuting ideological misconceptions and extremist narratives through rigorous, scholarly methods grounded in sound legal and rational proofs.
Dr. Abdeen also explained how the AOCE—through its various units—strives to present an alternative Islamic discourse that highlights the true essence and tolerance of Islam. This includes decisively debunking the fabrications and rumors propagated by extremist groups to distort religious concepts and divert individuals from the authentic faith.
For their part, members of the Islamic University of Maldives delegation expressed deep appreciation for the exceptional efforts undertaken by the AOCE in combating radicalization. They noted that exploring the AOCE methodology for addressing misconceptions provides a valuable cognitive and practical framework that reinforces the values of moderation and peaceful coexistence.