Figures with Insightful Vision

We know that research centers in the United States have a significant role in rooting the culture of science, knowledge and policy guidance, this is why Peter Singer used the term (Bicycle Chair) to define them, as being between the scientific research and the political world.

It is inevitable to say that the US was the first to have developed these centers that greatly contributed to the public policies’ field, as follows:

-They contribute to developing original ideas and offering multiple political options.

- Providing empowering experts at the disposal of the decision-makers.

-A suitable place for discussion and preview of new and possible trends.

- It has a pedagogical role for the elites as well as citizens.

- Those specializing in international relations are also helpful to official efforts seeking solutions for international problems.

Based on these data, research centers not only formulate original studies but also contribute to the preparation of elites and influence society…. They have a vision for the future that is dominated by a positive outlook; they also take advantage of the strength of the curriculum and theoretical foundations in establishing strategic partnerships with the community and decision-makers.

Among these major centers is the Middle East Institute, which was founded in 1946 and specialized in studies and research on the Middle East.

This institution always honors the visionary figures, cultural leaders in recognition for their positive contributions in the political, economic, social and cultural areas.

I say this because, a few days ago, Founder of BMCE Bank Foundation Othman Benejelloun and the Foundation president Dr. Leila Mezian were granted the “Visionary Award” bestowed by the Washington-based Institute to inpiduals or organizations in recognition for their outstanding work in the region.

The Visionary Award recognizes a figure or organization for their outstanding and forward-thinking work that promotes peace and stability in the Middle East and North Africa region.

The Benejellouns have been honored for their significant role as heads of the BMCE Bank Foundation, set up in 1995. For nearly 30 years, the entity has been fighting illiteracy, poverty, and discrimination in rural villages across Morocco.

Together, they have established and financed more than 100 rural community schools throughout morocco. The foundation a key role in the preservation of the environment and in the field of teaching Amazigh language and culture.

The Medersat.com program, supported by the BMCE Bank Foundation, has been able to enroll more than 29,000 students since its launch in 2000, 50% of which are girls, through 309 preschool units and schools, 6 of which are in sub-Saharan Africa (Djibouti, Republic of Congo, Mali, Rwanda, and Senegal).

Schools are equipped with modern infrastructures and resources, incorporating the latest state-of-the-art technologies. The program now has nearly 1,800 graduates from Medersat.com schools since the 1st class and employs nearly 800 teachers, 63% of whom are women.

Founded in 1946, the Middle East Institute is the oldest Washington-based institution dedicated solely to the study of the Middle East. It is a non-partisan think tank providing expert policy analysis, educational and professional development services, and a hub for engaging with the region’s arts and culture.

It also has contributed to increasing knowledge of the Middle East among citizens of the United States and promoting a better understanding between the people of these two areas.

Such achievements and celebrations are a pride for all Arabs and Africans because it is the hidden side of some people's lives, the charitable side, that deserves more work to highlight.

Othman Benejelloun is an amazing character who enjoys a powerful memory, intelligence in the choice of words and meanings, logical analysis of facts and events as well as an insight into the future.

He is one of the state few contemporary men who has fought the whirlwind of sustainable development at all its aspects and mastered it.

He always tells me that we are God's servants on earth, to remind everyone of these words and understand why he is alive; to work, worship, love each other, do charity, and trust in God through good and bad times.