As part of the annual cultural season of Iraqi universities, and in cooperation between the Association for Specialized Studies between the Hawza and the University and the University of Kufa, an intellectual and academic symposium was held at the College of Arts entitled “Youth and the Building of an Inclusive National Discourse.” The event formed part of the Association’s programs aimed at enhancing intellectual awareness and consolidating the concepts of national identity and constructive dialogue between the Hawza (Islamic seminary) and academic institutions.

The lecture was delivered by the representative of His Eminence the religious authority Ayatollah al-Najafi (may Allah prolong his life), and Director of his Central Office in Najaf al-Ashraf, His Eminence Sheikh Ali al-Najafi. He presented an in-depth academic analysis addressing a range of intellectual and social issues related to the role of youth in shaping national discourse and strengthening an inclusive national identity.

Symposium Themes

Identity and Nation-Building: His Eminence emphasized that a shared identity constitutes the fundamental pillar of social cohesion and internal strength, and that establishing an inclusive national discourse begins with reinforcing a sense of belonging and awareness of authentic identity.

Cultural Marketing of Identity – The Turkish Model: He reviewed the Turkish experience in employing popular culture tools—such as television series and films—to market national identity and influence public opinion, warning of the risks posed by uncritical consumption of such products on the identity of young people.

The Social Impact of Economic Exchange: He explained that economic interaction between states is not limited to material interests, but also serves as a channel for transmitting values and lifestyles, thereby affecting the culture and identity of societies.

The Strength of Islamic Identity: He stressed the depth of Islamic identity in the region as a value-based and geopolitical system capable of uniting peoples and confronting challenges.

Iraqi Identity: Authenticity and Challenges: He highlighted the importance of pride in the historical roots of Iraqi civilization, as Iraq is the cradle of the earliest human civilizations that introduced writing and contributed to the course of humanity. He also warned of the impact of wars and internal crises on the cohesion of national identity and on young people’s confidence in their future.

Educational and Ethical Dimension: Part of the lecture was devoted to time management and the priorities of the Muslim individual, emphasizing the need to balance beneficial work, constructive social interaction, and worship that purifies the heart and strengthens the relationship with Almighty God.

Interaction and Recognition

The symposium witnessed active engagement from students of the College of Arts, who raised religious and intellectual questions that were addressed by His Eminence, reflecting their interest in the themes of the symposium and their keenness to contribute to building an inclusive national discourse that strengthens social unity and the future of the country.

At the conclusion of the event, the Dean of the College of Arts, Professor Dr. Majid al-Hidrawi, honored His Eminence Sheikh Ali al-Najafi with a plaque of appreciation in recognition of his visit and valuable lecture. In turn, His Eminence presented the Dean with the shield of the Association for Specialized Studies between the Hawza and the University, a number of its academic publications, and a letter of thanks and appreciation in acknowledgment of the cooperation and efforts made.