The “Shusha OIC Youth Capital 2024 International Program,” initiated by the Islamic Cooperation Youth Forum (ICYF) in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth and Sports of the Republic of Azerbaijan, was launched with a ceremony in Shusha. Each year, the ICYF selects a city from among the OIC member countries as the “Youth Capital” to enhance the capacities of young people, who play a crucial role in the development of their countries. The city of Shusha in the Republic of Azerbaijan, chosen as the “Youth Capital” for 2024, is the 10th to host this title under the ICYF decision.At the opening ceremony of the “Shusha OIC Youth Capital 2024 International Program,” jointly organized by ICYF and the Ministry of Youth and Sports of the Republic of Azerbaijan, speeches were made by Azerbaijan’s Minister of Youth and Sports Farid Gayibov, Presidential Administration Director Hamid Nasibov, ICYF President Taha Ayhan, Azerbaijani MP Shahin Ismayilov, representing the OIC Secretary-General, Youth and Sports Director Boubakari Maiga, and SESRIC Chief of Staff Atilla Karaman.Over 150 Youths from 36 CountriesThis year’s theme, “Empowering Youth, Uniting Cultures,” was highlighted in the opening remarks by Minister Farid Gayibov. He emphasized the significance of Shusha for all of Azerbaijan, especially after its liberation following years of occupation, and expressed great joy in Shusha being selected as the Youth Capital. Gayibov outlined the program’s goals, stating, “In collaboration with ICYF, we will organize over 12 major offline and online events encompassing all areas of life and development for the youth in science, culture, sports, entrepreneurship, social innovation, and education. We have invited over 150 young people from 36 countries to participate in these events, giving them the opportunity to be a part of this historic moment. Through these activities, we aim to introduce Shusha’s resilience to the world’s youth and unite Muslim youths here in Shusha. Our President, Ilham Aliyev, has always been a strong supporter of the youth. The majority of our country’s population is young. Despite the current global tensions, I believe peace will be achieved through friendship.”Shusha: A Symbol of Strength in Resistance and ResilienceICYF President Taha Ayhan highlighted the goal of sharing Shusha’s story of liberation with the world through the youth, saying, “Shusha is not just a geographical location on the map of Azerbaijan; it is a historical chapter, a symbol of strength in resistance and resilience over decades. Through the program starting today, we will highlight Shusha’s history and culture and share it with the global community through the lens of the youth.” Ayhan elaborated on the program’s aim to build capacity and foster cooperation among the youth in the Islamic world, stating, “Our shared mission is to leverage the potential of our youth, develop our communities, and work together for a sustainable future. This program is a way to amplify the voices of young people, advocate for their aspirations and dreams, and provide them with platforms to succeed and support their growth. We must work harder to create an environment where every young person in the Islamic world can dream confidently and reach their full potential.”Ayhan recalled the words of Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, who expressed deep sorrow over the loss of loved ones in Palestine and the killing of innocent children, saying, “Current challenges require us to demonstrate realistic solutions and genuine solidarity with our brothers and sisters. Nevertheless, Shusha’s liberation serves as an inspiration for the freedom of many occupied lands in the Muslim world.”Following the speeches, the ceremony continued with cultural performances.Leadership and Capacity Building for YouthThe program will continue tomorrow in Shusha with the “International Leadership and Diplomacy Conference,” which will see participation from many high-level officials from OIC member countries. Following the conference, the “NexGen: Social Innovation Forum” will address the topics of youth leadership and capacity building. Throughout the program, various events will be organized in collaboration with global and national institutions, including cultural, academic, entertainment, social, sports, intercultural dialogue, youth leadership, and capacity building activities.
