Amman- 15 December 2021
The German Jordanian University (GJU), in cooperation with the Ministry of Culture, the German Embassy in Jordan, and Orange, organized the Culture and Arts Conference in Jordan throughout 100 years - Future Prospects, with the participation of HRH Princess Wijdan Al-Hashemi and in the presence of the President of GJU, Prof. Ala'aldeen Al-Halhouli, Adviser to the Minister of Culture, Dr. Ahmed Rashid, First Secretary, Head of Culture and Press Section, Leonie Lorenz, and artists who represent private and public universities in addition to the Jordanian Plastic Art Association.
Her Highness presented a paper as a keynote speaker at the conference that was held at Jabal Amman campus. In her paper, Princess Wijdan referred to the cultural and artistic development in Jordan from the beginning of the Kingdom’s founding to the present time, the establishment of cultural institutions such as the Darat al-Funun, the Institute of Fine Arts, the art faculties at the universities and the Artists Associations.
Prof. Al-Halhouli stated that the conference represents the achievements of the Kingdom over a hundred years, mentioning the anticipation with the highest determination to the second centenary to achieve the royal visions towards keeping pace with digital development, adopting pioneering ideas, and moving seriously in this unique scientific structure towards innovation, community service, simulation of market requirements and competitiveness, and deepening strategic partnerships, adopt talents and distinguished students.
Dr. Rashid highlighted the importance of culture in people's lives and its role in achieving comprehensive and sustainable development. Chairman of the Conference Committee, Dr. Mohammad Yaghan, said that the Conference represents an invitation to everyone to evaluate and present new visions and ideas.
Furthermore, Lorenz pointed out that the Kingdom is famous for its diverse and rich cultural heritage through historical and archaeological sites, such as Petra, and other landmarks that reflect the diverse cultural and artistic influences through the ages.
The conference included presentations of several papers in artistic and literary creativity, tangible and intangible heritage, public culture and experiences, creative music, writing, entrepreneurship culture. In addition, HRH Princess Wijdan Al Hashemi inaugurated the exhibition of fine art by the Artists Association.
The conference was attended by the former Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Prof. Labib Al-Khadra, the former GJU President, Prof. Natheer Abu Obeid, and the Vice-Presidents, Prof. Prof. Malek Alsharairi and Prof. Ralf Rosskopf.
