MBRF Announces 5th Edition of Youth Knowledge Forum in Rabat

The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation (MBRF), in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), will organise the fifth edition of the Youth Knowledge Forum (YKF) in Rabat, Morocco, from September 7 to 8, 2026.

Held under the theme “From Crisis to Sustainability,” the forum will bring together young people, policymakers, experts and specialists to discuss global challenges and explore practical approaches to sustainability, resilience and youth empowerment. The event will mark the second time that Rabat hosts the forum and coincides with International Youth Day, highlighting the partners’ efforts to strengthen the role of young people in shaping future development.

MBRF CEO Jamal bin Huwaireb said the forum reflects the foundation’s commitment to providing young people with platforms that encourage empowerment, entrepreneurship and investment. He added that initiatives led through collaboration with international organisations can help foster innovative projects, support economic development and strengthen the contribution of youth to society.

ICESCO Director-General Dr. Salim M. AlMalik said the return of the forum to Rabat demonstrates the organisation’s continued focus on developing young people's creative capabilities and equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to contribute to future development. He noted that young people account for around 60 per cent of the population of the Islamic world and should play an active role in developing strategies to address emerging challenges.

Forum to Focus on Crises, Sustainability and Youth Leadership

The first day of the Youth Knowledge Forum will examine the intersection of global crises in 2026 and consider sustainability as a potential framework for responding to these challenges. Experts will contribute insights into emerging issues, while another session will explore the role of youth leadership in crisis response, recovery and the creation of new growth opportunities aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Discussions will also examine the implementation of global standards and how young people can contribute to developing more resilient communities and economies.

The second day will focus on the future of employment and skills. Sessions will address how crises are affecting labour markets, the skills required by evolving industries and ways to bridge the gap between education and employment.

The programme will also draw on national experiences to help young participants identify opportunities for future projects and entrepreneurship. Another session will highlight youth-led crisis response initiatives across ICESCO member states, examining lessons from resilience projects and practical ways to translate commitments into measurable action.

The fifth edition of the Youth Knowledge Forum is expected to provide a platform for dialogue between young leaders, institutions and experts, while strengthening international cooperation around youth development, sustainability and crisis resilience.