The Knowledge E Foundation is pleased to announce that the Forum for Open Research in MENA (F.O.R.M.) is now accepting presentation proposals for its 2023 event.
The second edition of F.O.R.M. will be held in partnership with Khalifa University of Science and Technology, from the 23rd to 24th of October in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The theme of the conference is ‘Democratising Knowledge: The evolution of Open Science research ecosystems and communities in the Arab World’. Bringing together leading international experts and key regional stakeholders, the annual forum will provide an arena for librarians, researchers, government policy makers, universities, and international experts to discuss and debate key themes and issues relating to the advancement of Open Research across the Arab world.
F.O.R.M.’s theme for 2023 is especially pertinent against the backdrop of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which have inspired people worldwide to tackle inequality and injustice across every sector of society. A key element of these goals has been the growing prominence of sustainable, equitable practices surrounding science and education. In particular, UNESCO’s Open Science Recommendations have triggered a profound shift in the way research is viewed and practiced, with a growing emphasis on the importance of ensuring responsible and sustainable production, dissemination, and use of scientific knowledge for the benefit of everyone.
More about the Forum for Open Research in MENA 2023
Global entities, such as UNESCO, are working with governments and other organisations to spearhead national and international projects focused on addressing social injustices, climate change, and a host of other issues. However, to achieve this vision and make Open Science the global cultural norm, academia needs to embrace Open Access practices and adopt more ‘open’ policies and practices. That is the focus of the 2023 Annual Forum for Open Research.
Dr Ahmed Al Shoaibi, Senior Vice-President, Academic and Student Services, Khalifa University, said: “We are keen to play an increasingly participatory role in the advancement of Open Research across the Arab world and, more specifically, through supporting the second Forum for Open Research in MENA to be organised later this year by the Knowledge E Foundation. Khalifa University supports Open Science research ecosystems and communities in the region. We believe this forum will throw a spotlight on Open Science topics to increase visibility, while fostering equal opportunities for all stakeholders, including innovators, scientists, policymakers, practitioners, and the general public to be able to view, cite, and share scientific work."
F.O.R.M. is accepting submissions for 20-minute presentations in Arabic and English, as well as 10-minute lighting round presentations. Suggestions for round table discussions and whole panels are also welcome. The deadline for submissions is the 30th of June. The event will offer a series of carefully tailored presentations and panels addressing the key themes and topics raised during the highly successful 2022 forum, which was held in Cairo with the support of UNESCO and the Egyptian Knowledge Bank.
Kamran R. Kardan, the founder of the Knowledge E Foundation, said: “We’re honoured to partner with Khalifa University to host the 2023 annual forum. The event will provide a fantastic opportunity to explore new ideas relating to the development and implementation of Open Science policies and practices, as well as the building of Open Science communities in higher education institutions and research libraries. We encourage all those interested in working towards a more ‘open’ world to join us and contribute to this vital conversation.”
For more information about the Call for Papers, please visit the official F.O.R.M. website.