When Students Meet their Supporters

The recent visit of a delegation from the Arab Fund for Economic and Social Development to ICTP marked a significant milestone—coming one year after the launch of the ICTP-Arab Fund Programme. This special occasion offered a powerful and moving demonstration of the programme’s real-world impact, building a bridge between dedicated supporters and the students whose futures they help shape.

At its core, the ICTP-Arab Fund Programme aims to counter brain drain and promote scientific excellence at the graduate and postgraduate levels across the Arab world. Its objectives include building advanced scientific skills, supporting early-career researchers, and fostering knowledge exchange through ICTP-supervised initiatives. The programme offers:

• Fellowships for Arab students conducting research in cutting-edgeICTP Director Atish Dabholkar with HE Bader Mohammad Al-Saad, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Directors at the Arab Fund for Economic and Social Development (AFESD), during the delegation’s visit to ICTP on 18 June 2025. scientific disciplines within their home countries.
• Scientific visits and training opportunities at ICTP, including study tours, hands-on training programmes, and participation in scientific meetings that sharpen both theoretical and practical skills.
• Active participation in ICTP-hosted events, such as international conferences, workshops, and seminars, enabling Arab researchers to engage with global peers and leading experts.

For many students, the visit was more than an opportunity to express gratitude—it was a chance to share stories of personal and professional transformation. One young researcher described how ICTP served as a launching pad for their academic journey, leading to collaborative projects in Europe and the United States. Others highlighted how the training and exposure at ICTP not only advanced their careers but also equipped them to return home with the skills and confidence needed to strengthen their local scientific communities.

These fellowships have made it possible for Arab scientists to attend international conferences, collaborate with global leaders in their fields, and—most importantly—bring that knowledge back to their institutions, where it can have lasting impact.

Across the board, fellows consistently praised the value of their experience at ICTP. They emphasized access to cutting-edge scientific methods, mentorship from top researchers, and the opportunity to be part of an international network of scientists. Many reported meaningful improvements in their research design, publication progress, and interdisciplinary understanding. Importantly, several fellows initiated new international collaborations that are expected to grow into long-term research partnerships.

The day was not just a reflection on achievements—it was also an invitation to imagine the future. Students and Arab Fund delegates exchanged ideas on how to further expand educational and research opportunities. Discussions included proposals for increasing research mobility, establishing regional centers of excellence, and deepening cooperation in science and technology across the Arab world.

Ultimately, the visit served as a powerful reminder that philanthropy is about more than funding—it’s about building a shared vision. When students meet their supporters, the true impact of generosity becomes undeniably clear. It is in these moments that the path forward is defined—not only by progress in science, but by collective inspiration, mutual respect, and a commitment to global knowledge-sharing.

If you are interested in learning more about supporting ICTP, please contact us at advancement@ictp.it.

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