December 2016

Newsletter | December 2016

December 2016

Abu- Ghazaleh named as UN Representative to advocate UN Sustainable Development Goals 2030 & presented with Gold Award for Sustainable Development 2016

HRH Princess Ghida Talal Signs MoU with Talal “TAG-Org” and “Al Quds Fund and Endowment” Abu-Ghazaleh Organization Sign Agreement to Establish 100 Knowledge Stations in Palestine

1 Newsletter | December 2016

Abu- Ghazaleh named as UN Representative to advocate UN Sustainable Development Goals 2030 & presented with Gold Award for Sustainable Development 2016

Salalah- The Supreme Committee of Oman H.E. Dr. Talal Abu-Ghazaleh expressed his pride International Social Responsibility Conference and pleasure at receiving this honor, noting that 2016 conferred the title of UN Representative to being active in service and social responsibility Advocate UN Sustainable Development Goals programs represents only a fraction of the activity 2030 to H.E. Dr. Talal Abu-Ghazaleh, and in and service returned to us by our societies. He added addition presented him with the Gold Award for that our organizations would not be established, Sustainable Development 2016. expand or flourish if it were not for these societies. He stressed that contributions to social service The ceremony took place as part of the activities programs should be a duty for all individuals, of the Oman International Social Responsibility especially the representatives of the private sector. Conference 2016, held in the city of Salalah in the Dhofar Governorate, Sultanate of Oman. It H.E. Abu-Ghazaleh expressed his pleasure in was held in recognition of Dr. Abu-Ghazaleh’s announcing the opening of office No. 86 of TAG- prominent role in national and international Org in Salalah. He highlighted the fact that Muscat service and social responsibility programs. has had a special place in TAG-Org’s history as

1 Newsletter | December 2016 the first international office which has been there since the beginning of the reign of Sultan Qaboos Bin Said Al Said (May Allah protect him).

He announced the establishment of “Responsible News Agency” to manage three specialized news agencies (information technology, education and IP), and emphasized the fact that TAG-Org is keen to put all its expertise in the agency’s service.

Dr. Abu Ghazaleh stated that for half a century TAG-Org has adopted a consistent policy of fulfilling its role in serving society. He affirmed that half of TAG-Org’s annual profits are allocated to the TAG Foundation for Social Responsibility and that thirty capacity-building institutions have been established and are fully financed by TAG-Org. He added that they had developed three hundred specialized training programs to serve the whole society, in addition to offering capacity-building programs, all in the interests of The conference included many events that meeting our social responsibility. Furthermore, he highlight the responsible practices of many pointed out that TAG-Org is one of the founders Omani, Gulf, Arab and international authorities, of the United Nations Global Compact Program institutions and companies in the areas of society (UNGCO) established in 2000 and that he has service. been the Vice President of the Program during the time of Secretary-Generals H.E. Kofi Annan and The conference was organized by the Chamber H.E. Ban Ki-moon. of Commerce and Industry of Oman- Dhofar Governorate in cooperation with the regional The conference was held under the patronage of the network of social responsibility and a strategic Omani Minister, H.E. Sheikha Aisha bint Khalfan partnership with the Salalah Methanol Company, Alsiyabiah, Chairperson of the Public Authority and in alliance with the Supreme Committee for Crafts Industries (PACI) of the Sultanate of of the Conference represented by: Ministry of Oman, and the International Ambassador of Social Social Development in the Sultanate of Oman, Responsibility, in collaboration with the UNGCO Oman Center for Corporate Governance and Program. It was chaired by H.E. Sheikh Abdullah Sustainability, Public Authority for Crafts Bin Salem Al Mahad Al Rowas, Chairman of the Industries (PACI), Oman Social Responsibility Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Oman, Program, Regional Network Consulting, CSR Dhofar Governorate. International Ambassadors Program and UNGCO.

2 Newsletter | December 2016

HRH Princess Ghida Talal Signs MoU with Talal Abu-Ghazaleh Organization

Amman - HRH Princess Ghida Talal, the Chairperson For his part, Dr. Abu-Ghazaleh said: “The King Hussein of the Board of Trustees of the King Hussein Cancer Cancer Foundation is the most deserving of support, Foundation and Center, signed a memorandum of given the importance of its mission to give cancer understanding with H.E. Dr. Talal Abu-Ghazaleh, patients a chance of hope in life. It is a great institution Chairperson of the Talal Abu-Ghazaleh Group. that has made great achievements, thanks to the great and dedicated leadership of HRH Princess Ghida Talal. Under this Memorandum of Understanding, H.E. Dr. Abu-Ghazaleh will donate his full salary from the Abu-Ghazaleh praised the “Friends of King Hussein Senate, since the day he has was appointed and until Cancer Center” Program and said that the program the end of his term, for the benefit of the ‘Friends provides people with the opportunity to deduct a Program’, one of KHCF’s Programs. Additionally, certain amount from their salary, or their full salary, Talal Abu-Ghazaleh Professional Training Group tax-free every month, thus contributing to saving the (TAGI-TRAIN), a member of Talal Abu-Ghazaleh lives of thousands of patients. Organization (TAG-Org) will provide the necessary technical support to KHCF in the fields of training, The signing ceremony was attended by Dr. Asem corporate identity and marketing strategies. Mansour, Director General of King Hussein Cancer Center and Ms. Nisreen Qatamish, Director General On this occasion, HRH Princess Ghida Talal said: of King Hussein Cancer Foundation. On behalf “I thank Dr. Talal Abu-Ghazaleh for his generous of Talal Abu-Ghazaleh Group, the ceremony was support to the King Hussein Cancer Foundation. attended by Mr. Tarek Hammad, Executive Director This support is not something new to him and the of TAGI-Train, Mr. Ramez Quneibi, Executive Talal Abu-Ghazaleh Group, which simply adds to Director for Website Development and Design, Ms. their continuous efforts and strong faith in the fight Amaal Al-Damen, PR Manager, and Ms. Rana Al against cancer.” Kadra, Special Projects’ Manager.

3 Newsletter | December 2016

Under the patronage of the Palestinian Minister of Education “TAG-Org” and “Al Quds Fund and Endowment” Sign Agreement to Establish 100 Knowledge Stations in Palestine

AMMAN – Talal Abu-Ghazaleh Organization the Palestinian cities. In these stations all digital (TAG-Org)/ Talal Abu-Ghazaleh Knowledge and traditional programs will be implemented Society (TAG-KS) signed a cooperation through a similar mechanism to that applied at agreement with Al Quds Fund and Endowment TAG-KS in Amman. (QFE) to establish 100 Knowledge Stations (KS) in Palestinian cities. The agreement Dr. Abu-Ghazaleh stated that TAG-Org’s mission aims at providing students with cutting-edge is capacity building, which is hoped to be achieved tools and systems in the field of information in every Arab country. He noted that this project and communication technology, in addition to is significant for Palestine which has a special providing them with qualifications and widening place in our hearts. their expertise to enable them to meet local and Arab market requirements. He also underscored the importance of embarking on the project through two liaison officers, The agreement was signed by HE Dr. Talal Abu- who were nominated at the meeting, starting in Ghazaleh, and Mr. Munib Rasheed Al Masri, Jerusalem, and then expanding geographically as Chairman of QFE and it was made under the needed and based on priority to be determined by patronage of HE Dr. Sabri Saydam, Palestinian QFE. Dr. Abu-Ghazaleh added that these stations Minister of Education and Higher Education. are not only designed for the use of computers, According to the agreement, 100 Knowledge but also as venues for training sessions. They will Stations will be established in distinct phases. issue professional certificates which will provide The first phase will establish eight stations in a means to overcome barriers and to graduate Jerusalem which will be a model to the rest of well-qualified people.

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For his partDr. Saydam expressed his gratitude to Dr. Abu-Ghazaleh and highlighted the fact that Dr Abu-Ghazaleh had launched a number of previous initiatives to serve Palestinian youth and develop their capabilities. He pointed out that two knowledge windows had previously been launched at An-Najah National University and Al-Quds University.

He commended the achievements made by the Al Quds Fund and Endowment under the The signing ceremony was attended by the chairmanship of Mr. Munib Al Masri, pointing Deputy Governor of Jerusalem, Mr. Abdullah out that the challenges in the field of education in Siam, Representative of the Organization of Jerusalem and Palestine on the whole are immense. Islamic Cooperation in Palestine Mr. Ahmad and include the large number of policies imposed Al Rwidi, Mr. El Mansour Ben Fata and Mr. by the Occupation Forces, so that such initiatives Nawwaf Atawneh from the Islamic Development contribute to addressing those challenges and Bank ,Representative of the International Labor limiting their impact. Organization Mr. Munir Qlibo, representative of the UNDP, Mr. Khaled Haidar Abdel Shafi, Mr. Al Masri expressed his appreciation to CEO of the QFE Mr. Taher Al Disi, and TAG-KS TAG-Org for this initiative, signalling the Executive Director Mr. Tareq Hammad. commencement of an approach which would exploit the untapped energies of Palestinian TAG-KS is a recent initiative undertaken by TAG- youth, who represent the future of Palestine and Org targeting Arab youth and working to foster drive its progress. human resource development. TAG-KS aims at providing modern tools in the information and He added that these stations will contribute to communication technology fields. Its mission is to the economic empowerment of youth and will support a large number of local professionals to gain provide them with the essentials to pursue their the competitive edge that results from international purpose in Jerusalem and in every Palestinian exposure and all of this will be provided at a one- city, saying that the program would provide stop-hub supported by TAG-Org experts. distance learning, training and employment opportunities. QFE is an independent non-profit body whose permanent headquarters is located in Al Quds According to the provisions of the agreement, (Jerusalem) City. It was established by a group the two parties will cooperate in holding training of dignitaries who wished to guarantee the future programs and jointly issuing training certificates. of Al Quds City. The key objective of QFE is to QFE would provide appropriate facilities for ensure the permanence the Palestinian people in branches of TAG-KS while the latter would furnish Al Quds, as well as promoting development in these branches with the necessary computers and the various sectors of the Holy City to maintain launch training programs according to the needs the Palestinian national identity and its permanent of the local community. presence in Al Quds.

5 Newsletter | December 2016

Under the Patronage of Lebanese Minister of Telecommunication and Presidency of HE Dr. Talal Abu-Ghazaleh eAGE 2016, AROQA’s 8Th Annual Conference and OSSCOM 2016 Convene in Beirut Abu-Ghazaleh: We seek to make national networks for research and education in the Arab countries part of ASREN

BEIRUT- HE Mr. Botrus Harb, Lebanese Minister of Telecommunications has inaugurated the 6th International Platform on Integrating Arab e-infrastructure in a Global Environment (e-AGE 2016), the 8th Annual Conference of the Arab Organization for Quality Assurance in Education (AROQA 2016) and the 2nd International Conference on Open Source Computing (OSSCOM 2016) at the American University of Beirut under the presidency of HE Dr. Talal Abu-Ghazaleh, Chairman of AROQA and ASREN.

HE Mr. Harb expressed his strong interest in advancing the Lebanese network infrastructure to support not only the research and education communities, but also all the citizens of Lebanon as motivated in the telecom vision 2020. He noted that Lebanon is acknowledged among the first three most dynamic countries in terms of the ICT development and the second biggest mover in the year 2015 on the Network Readiness Index. These developments will of course strengthen innovation and entrepreneurship movement in the Lebanese mobile Internet ecosystem supported by high speed networks and open source technologies. He declared his support for the Lebanese Education and Research Network (LERN) for which highly discounted connectivity prices will be provide.

Dr. Abu-Ghazaleh said “we witness today growing interests of Arab National Research and Education Networks (NRENs) in joining ASREN in addition to National Research and Education Networks in Jordan, Morocco, Sudan, Egypt, Tunisia, Somalia, Iraq and Palestine”. He noted “we are looking forward to active participation of Arab NRENs in ASREN to support and enhance the development of research and e-Infrastructure in the Arab region”. He pointed out that ASREN shall continue to serve the Arab region in developing best practice NREN model and to provide pan-Arab e-Infrastructure connectivity at the regional level.

Dr. Abu-Ghazaleh further announced the establishment of the Arab Association of e-Universities under the umbrella of the League of Arab States. He also announced strong interests of partners to adopt open source software technologies as means for innovation and spread of technology at a wider scale in the framework of OSSCOM project supported by Tempus in partnership with universities in Jordan, Lebanon, Germany, Spain and the UK.

It should be noted that the conferences were attended by HE Mr. Yasser Abdel Moneim, Director of Education and Scientific Research at the League of Arab States, HE Dr. Fuad Qasem, Secretary General of the Ministry of Higher Education in Iraq, and official representatives of international organizations, researchers, experts, and academics from across the Arab region and the world.

It was decided that the next year’s conferences will be held in Egypt under the patronage of HE Ahmed Aboul- Gheit, Secretary General of the League of Arab States.

6 Newsletter | December 2016

Jumana Talal Abu-Ghazaleh is listed among the Global 40 Women To Watch over 40 NEW YORK- Celebrating the “We have increased our reliance power of women’s creativity, the on technology, and a tremendous 40 Women To Watch Over 40 amount of attention and investment list included Ms. Jumana Abu- is being directed towards efficiency Ghazaleh, a Board member of Talal maximization but none being paid Abu-Ghazaleh Organization (TAG- to the development of interpersonal Org) in recognition for her intuitive dynamics in a digital world; I did and innovative approach towards a not hesitate at all. It was the right better knowledge-based future. time to change the path and create something new,” she added. The daughter of HE Dr. Talal Abu- Ghazaleh and founder and CEO of Her inclusion in the list gave her betwixt.us, a tech company dedicated the power to call on women to fight to making professional relationships more in this male-dominated world. more rewarding and productive by building psychological safety “I am proud and I thank all those Jumana, like her father, is a into workgroups, is a recipient of who trusted my judgment. Women passionate risk-taker, who started in multiple marketing industry awards are able to make it in this world 1972 with a small office and today for her brand strategy work for the with ease and they only need he has strong presence in 85 offices likes of American Express, Yahoo, someone who believes in them. around the world serving a host of Coca-Cola, Bank of America and My father Talal Abu-Ghazaleh regional and international clients. Hilton Hotels. has always stood beside women’s issues and encouraged them to do “He is my ultimate role-model. I The holder of an MBA from more and today TAG-Org is an have learned so much from him Harvard Business School and a example where the percentage of especially his passion towards degree in Literature and Philosophy women employees is higher than technology which as he predicted from Claremont McKenna College males’,” she stated. long time ago that it will shape our courageously inspired other future and from the way I see it, women in taking another path “Most of betwixt.us’ earliest technology is doing that and will and look for a future based on employees are young women continue to do that,” she stated. knowledge and innovation. working in the tech industry for the first time and team members The 40 Women To Watch Over 40 “ I have been in the business are encouraged to discover their list celebrates women ingenuity of marketing for more than 20 own roles and to create job titles around the world and was created years and I discovered that there that reflect their contributions and by Christina Vuleta and Whitney is more to be done in the area of motivate them to do their best work Johnson. The list gives a voice to communication through betwixt. and this is how I imagined it from women who have more in front of us, which incorporates research the beginning. We are, each of us, them than they have behind them. into appreciative inquiry, social simultaneously a work of art and penetration theory and Aristotle’s a work in progress,” Jumana, who Rhetorical Triangle – in a way that serves on the board of the Center for works seamlessly within existing Innovation and Entrepreneurship at digital collaboration,” she said. Claremont McKenna College, said.

7 Newsletter | December 2016

Abu-Ghazaleh donates to the Palestine Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research for the international high-speed linkage for research and education

Amman - HE Dr. Talal Abu-Ghazaleh has provided a donation to support the implementation international high-speed linkage to connect the Palestinian universities and educational institutions with the Arab, European, and American research and education networks in the framework of the EUMEDCONNECT3 project, funded by the European Commission and managed by GEANT Association.

HE Dr. Talal Abu-Ghazaleh, Chairman of ASREN, said: “With this linkage linkage, the cornerstone of developing the Palestinian National Research and Education Network connecting all Universities, Schools, and Research Centers in Palestine through a dedicated and the Africa Connect2 Project supported by the network at the national level in between them and to European Commission. The Arab States Research and the Arab, European, American and the world research Education Network (ASREN) endeavors to provide and education networks. This will support advancing dedicated and yet high speed networks for research research, improving education, accelerating progress, and education for the Arab countries to interconnect providing hope, and enabling better opportunities for them and to connect to the European and global the young scientists in Palestine”. networks for research and education through ASREN PoP in London”. The international link will soon be procured for a capacity of 155 Mbps from Palestine to ASREN’s PoP H.E. Dr. Sabri Saydam said: “The dedicated link for in London to facilitate communication and access to the Research and Education Network in Palestine variety of educational and research resources available when completed shall constitute a great support to the on the European, American and global research and national researchers, without which our researchers educational networks. would face challenges in the interconnect and in the transfer of big data to and from the global computing This donation was made upon receiving the Palestinian facilities.” Minister of Education Dr. Sabri Saydam, where HE confirmed providing all the project requirements He added, “We understand that this high speed including all financial, technical and technological linkage is very important, especially to connect support to complete the establishment of the dedicated our institutions in Palestine with the European international link for research and education. Research and Education Networks, so as to create more opportunities for researchers and students to HE Dr. Abu-Ghazaleh pointed out the importance be involved in the international research cooperation of research and education networks at the national, projects with their peers in Europe and worldwide, regional and global level, as they allow access and to provide access to advanced research and to research and computational facilities and for education resources, available elsewhere” researchers to interact with the Arab and international research communities. It is worth mentioning that this international link will come as an opportunity for national research He added, “This linkage, when completed, comes and education institutions to take advantage of the in the framework of the Euro-Mediterranean networks specialized in scientific research without Interconnection Project (EUMEDCONNECT3) the use of commercial Internet.

8 Newsletter | December 2016

Talal Abu-Ghazaleh and Omar Malhas discuss mechanism of cooperation to serve Ministry of Finance Projects

AMMAN – HE Dr. Talal Abu-Ghazaleh met Minister of Finance, HE Mr. Omar Malhas, to discuss existing frameworks of cooperation and the means of enhancing them.

Mr Malhas underlined the pivotal role of the private sector in protecting and supporting the local economy, and commended the role of the Talal Abu-Ghazaleh Organization (TAG-Org) and the International Arab Society of Certified Accountants (IASCA) in supporting the Ministry of Finance in the implementation of International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS) making Jordan the first and only Arab country to apply these standards comprehensively

He also reiterated the Ministry’s acknowledgement and appreciation of TAG-Org’s efforts related to the preparation of financial statements in accordance with international standards, noting that such projects crystalize the real meaning of partnership between the public and the private sectors.

The Minister welcomed the idea of establishing a regional center specializing in IPSAS at the Ministry’s Headquarters, with the aim of encouraging Arab governments to adopt these standards by providing training and offering help in their implementation.

For his part, Dr. Abu-Ghazaleh stressed that all the services provided by TAG-Org are part of its duty and social responsibility. He applauded the role of the minister in opening the door for TAG-Org to enable it to offer its services and expertise at the service of our beloved country.

Dr. Abu-Ghazaleh provided Mr Malhas with a copy of IPSAS publications, and expressed his readiness to provide whatever might be required to serve the Ministry in its plans to deliver the best accounting programs in accordance with international standards.

9 Newsletter | December 2016

Talal Abu-Ghazaleh Organization Office in Ma’an Governorate Receives Spanish Ambassador to Jordan

MA’AN –During a special tour of the Ma’an governorate, HE Mr. Santiago Ansorena, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Spain to Jordan, and the accompanying delegation, visited Talal Abu-Ghazaleh Organization (TAG-Org) office in Ma’an and was briefed on its latest work and development.

On behalf of HE Dr. Talal Abu-Ghazaleh, TAG-Org Executive Director, Mr. Loay Abu Osbeh, presented the most recent work in the office, underlining its mission and the various projects in the area.

The Ambassador expressed his admiration for TAG-Org’s efforts, stressing the need serve the national economic and educational for cooperation between the Embassy and objectives of the country. the Organization as well as the Ma’an Development Company (MDC) in the fields For his part, Mr Abu Osbeh thanked the of training and capacity building. Ambassador for his visit, highlighting Dr Abu Ghazaleh’s keenness and willingness to The Ambassador was accompanied by Ms. provide all the available services for the benefit Maria Sainz, head of the Spanish Economic of Ma’an and its residents. He added that and Commercial Office, Mr. Majed Al Sharari, TAG-Org, represented by its office in Ma’an, Mayor of Ma’an, Engineer Hussein Kreishan, was ready to provide the training courses CEO of the Ma’an Development Company as suggested by the Ambassador in cooperation well as representatives from the MDC, Ma’an with the Ma’an Development Company. Municipality and the Police Directorate. The Ambassador’s visit to TAG-Org office in In his keynote address, the Ambassador Ma’an was part of an organized programme thanked HE Dr. Talal Abu-Ghazaleh, of visits to the governorate’s key facilities: commending his contribution to, and efforts in Ma’an Municipality Headquarters, the King serving the governorate of Ma’an by creating Abdullah I Palace, Ma’an Development job opportunities for its inhabitants. He also Company, Hussein bin Talal University, and valued his work in developing education the headquarters of a Spanish enterprise in the through TAG knowledge stations and for his field of renewable energy. cooperation with public and private entities to

10 Newsletter | December 2016

Talal Abu-Ghazaleh Organization to Provide E-Solution Services to Qatar’s Mohamed Bin Hamad Holding

DOHA- Sheikh Mohamed Bin Hamad Al Thani, Chairman of Qatar’s Mohamed Bin Hamad Holding received Mr. Ramez Quneibi, executive director at Talal Abu-Ghazaleh Organization (TAG-Org) to discuss new opportunities in the field of Information Technology.

During the meeting which was also attended by Managing Director Mr. Fathi Abu Rish and Executive Director Mr. Nader Adawiya, it was agreed that TAG-Org will implement a host of new projects including developing and designing the company’s portal and provide E-Solutions to facilitate and speed up the archiving process and train employees to administer the content management system of the websites.

Moreover, the two parties conducted a visit to the Doha Clinic Hospital resulted in an agreement to audit Information Systems and suggest the best policies and procedures for development in addition to revisit the Hospital’s website regarding security and design in addition to content.

Mr. Qunaibi extended his gratitude to Sheikh Mohamed Bin Hamad Al Thani for the confidence given to TAG-Org which has a long experience in this field based on the vision of HE Dr. Talal Abu-Ghazaleh, TAG-Org’s chairman.

It is worth noting that Mohamed Bin Hamad Holding was established 30 years ago and is considered one of the best investment groups in the region which succeeded in developing its business in various fields.

11 Newsletter | December 2016

Abu- Ghazaleh: We are proud of our partnership with the Audit Bureau and applaud its keenness to train and develop its staff

DEAD SEA - The Arab Society of Certified Accountants (ASCA/Jordan) conducted a training course, financed by the World Bank, on International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS) for Jordan Audit Bureau staff.

HE Dr. Talal Abu-Ghazaleh, Chairman of ASCA/Jordan, expressed his pride in the partnership between ASCA and the Audit Bureau and the Bureau’s keenness to provide continuous education and training for its staff to enable them to qualify at the highest professional levels and enable them to play their proper role.

For his part, HE Dr. Abdullah Al Kharabsheh, President of the Audit Bureau, expressed his appreciation for the professional services provided by ASCA, while re-affirming the significance of constantly developing the potential of the Bureau’s staff and of utilizing ASCA’s expertise in this field. Moreover, he underlined the Bureau’s success in developing the capacity of its staff over the past years, an effort culminating in its having a large number of employees with advanced professional and academic qualifications.

During the course, the participants were introduced to the importance of IPSAS and were provided with the basic skills and knowledge to implement those standards. The course focused on the principles of the transition from a cash basis to an accruals basis and in presenting financial statements prepared in accordance with the international standards, as wellas overviewing several of the accounting procedures in IPSAS.

12 Newsletter | December 2016

Talal Abu-Ghazaleh Knowledge Forum’s Launch Aims at Transforming Jordan into a “knowledge-based Society” by 2040 AMMAN - HE Dr. Talal Abu-Ghazaleh has launched “Talal Abu-Ghazaleh Knowledge Forum”, stressing that the Forum’s mission seeks to transform the Jordanian society to become a knowledge-based society with a GDP of $200 billion in 2040.

He added during the general Assembly Meeting of the Forum attended by a number of the Forum’s 900 members, “This meeting is to enable us all to comprehend our responsibilities towards our country; the problems suffered by the country cannot be faced by the government alone. Each of us must play his role and take part in performing his duties and responsibilities.”

“Our duty through the Forum is to propose programs, laws, steps and procedures to decision-makers,” adding that “we at the Forum, are not decision makers, but we are a think tank center that can provide draft resolutions to the decision makers for approval.”

He stressed the fact that the Forum shall perform its duties through its 68 specialized committees which shall examine and address all topics and shall provide their proposals through cognitive methods, and through taskforces of specialists, interested experts and stakeholders concerned with education, knowledge not need aid and free of poverty, where the cognitive infrastructure, and knowledge-based economy, worker can perform any work without the need for knowledge-based government and social justice. employment, because he is a self-producer.

He also stressed “we need to use knowledge to Local, regional and international studies confirm innovate in all walks of life and solve every problem that the practical solutions to cope with all we encounter and offer technical solutions to become national challenges might pay back through such a technical community in all its aspects both in transformation. In the absence of such transformation, terms of education, e-government and advanced we shall remain in the process of studying and infrastructure.” addressing the economic, social and educational problems and other current problems but in vain over Dr. Abu-Ghazaleh pointed out that the Forum focuses the medium and long term. on digital education and its dissemination for those wishing to obtain it, especially the experience of The Forum is a non-profit charitable organization TAG-Org in the education of Syrian refugees at the funded by Talal Abu-Ghazaleh Foundation. It Zaatari Refugee Camp with a European British grant constitutes a model of community service where the to obtain online university degrees from the best productive people therein are Jordanian citizens who universities in the world without leaving their place. devote their time, knowledge and effort to serve this country in which we are proud of and very loyal to its He pointed out that he spares no efforts to contribute Hashemite leadership. to transforming Jordan to become a state that does

13 Newsletter | December 2016

Abu-Ghazaleh: IASCA’s participation in IFAC’s elections and decisions is a support for a more credible Arab role to boost global growth

BRASILIA– The International Federation of Accountants® (IFAC®), the global organization for the accountancy profession, announced the election of Australian Rachel Grimes as its President, for a two-year term effective through November 2018. Ms. Grimes is IFAC’s second female President. IFAC also announced the election of In-Ki Joo (South Korea) as Deputy President.

The IFAC Council elected three new members to the IFAC Board: Philippe Arraou (France), Tommye Barie (United States), and Idesio da Silva Coelho (Brazil). Wienand Schruff (Germany), Michael Hathorn (UK), Gail McEvoy (Ireland), and Sebastian Owuama (Nigeria) were reappointed for a second term of service.

As a member of IFAC, the International Arab Society of Certified Accountants (IASCA) took part in the meetings and voted for the election of the president and members of the Board.

HE Dr. Talal Abu-Ghazaleh, chairman of the Society noted that IASCA’s participation is a great opportunity to underline the Arab role in taking part in drawing the general policies of the largest entity that organizes the profession of accountants and auditors globally, stating that the participation is also a significant opportunity to exchange experiences among the members of the Federation taking into consideration that the number of participants at the meetings reached up to 86 representatives of international professional bodies.

In her speech, Grimes said: “I am honored to serve as IFAC’s President at a time of great global challenges. There are also remarkable opportunities to strengthen the accountancy profession and further the adoption of global standards in the public interest.” She added, “As President, I look forward to working with our member organizations and other stakeholders as we continue to put trust at the heart of all we do, and at the heart of the global economy.”

Moreover, the IFAC Council admitted three new members (previously IFAC associates):- • Mauritius Institute of Professional Accountants; • Ordem dos Contabilistas Certificados (Portugal); and • Union of Accountants, Auditors and Financial Workers of Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

14 Newsletter | December 2016

International Arab Society of Certified Accountants and Al Atiyya Center for Training Sign Cooperation Agreement Abu-Ghazaleh: Our Aim is to Serve Qatari Accountants

DOHA 2016- The International Arab Society of Certified Accountants (IASCA) and Qatar-based Al Atiyya Training Center signed a cooperation agreement for conducting IASCA’s professional training courses and examinations.

HE Dr. Talal Abu-Ghazaleh welcomed the cooperation between the parties as it contributes to promoting IASCA services in the Arab world, and he stressed that the agreement aims at serving Qatari accountants by providing a number of professional training courses and qualification examinations of the highest standards.

The agreement was signed by IASCA representative in Qatar, Mr. Tha’er Al Farra, and by the Director of Al Atiyya Center, Mr. Hisham Helmi.

IASCA was established as a non-profit professional accounting organization in London (United Kingdom) in 1984 and was registered in Amman on February 24, 1994 under the name of “The International Arab Society of Certified Accountants (IASCA)”.

For its part, Al Atiyya Center for Training, established in 2003, is a leading center for the provision of training services in the region.

15 Newsletter | December 2016

Talal Abu-Ghazaleh Organization Management Council Holds its 4th Meeting for the Third Round in Abu Dhabi

ABU DHABI- Talal Abu-Ghazaleh Organization (TAG-Org) Management Council held its 4th meeting for the third round in Abu Dhabi with the participation of directors representing various companies, departments and offices around the world.

The Council discussed the latest development in the global knowledge economy, studied performance enhancement and future expansion plans in addition to expected growth in the coming years and adapting to the needs of the local and international markets, including the introduction of new professional services.

The Council also tackled TAG-Org’s annual meeting which will be held in Amman in 2017 with the participation of all directors and concerned parties from the Group’s 85 offices around the world.

It is worth noting that the meeting is held regularly in the Arab world and it was held previously in Jordan, Bahrain, Egypt, Lebanon and Oman.

Mr. Salah Abu Osbeh, head of the Management Committee stated that all recommendations will be sent to TAG-Org Chairman to be approved for implementation saying that HE Dr. Talal Abu-Ghazaleh wanted to form this committee to allow the youth to participate in the planning and decision making process to encourage them to adopt the change needed in the programs and professional services.

16 Newsletter | December 2016

Abu-Ghazaleh Chairs ASIP and AIPMAS Board Extraordinary General Assembly Meetings

AMMAN – HE Dr. Talal Abu-Ghazaleh chaired the meetings of the Board of Directors and the Extraordinary General Assembly of the Arab Society for Intellectual Property (ASIP) and the Arab Intellectual Property Mediation and Arbitration Society (AIPMAS).

During the meetings, attended by members of the Board of Directors and the General Assembly, several topics were discussed and decisions approved.

The attendees approved the agendas of the meetings and that of the previous meeting. The financial statements were read and the auditor’s (Al Faysal Audit) report for the year ending 31/12/2015 was unanimously accepted by the General Assembly.

It was decided to shore up the AIPMAS’s balance with a JD10,000 donation from Dr. Abu- Ghazaleh, and to reassign the auditor for next year.

During the meeting, Dr. Abu-Ghazaleh recommended entering into agreements with training or educational institutions in Arab countries to offer training courses that would be co-managed and delivered by the society and similar associations. He also recommended offering training courses for school and university students, to raise awareness of intellectual property concepts.

The manager of AIPMAS and ASIP, Ms. Hasibah Shaaban, briefed the attendees on its administrative report and highlighted the most important achievements and activities, including internal and external cooperation, and in particular joint ventures with Saudi Arabian Airlines, the Saudi Patent Office (SPO), the Waljat Colleges of Applied Sciences, the Libyan Investment Fund and the Dubai Customs Authority.

17 Newsletter | December 2016

As stated in the report, the Arab Certified Intellectual Property Practitioner Program (ACIPP) was launched and several workshops were held. The relaunching of the Famous Arab Brand Names initiative for the second time was due to commence at the beginning of 2017. The initiative, which was first launched in 2012, votes to select the top ten brands in the Arab world. For the purpose of re-launching the enterprise, its website was updated to make the survey questionnaire more comprehensive to include all well-known and less known commercial brands. The questionnaire is divided into 14 professional and service sectors and all the brands are listed in their respective categories.

It was also agreed to establish an association for the owners of famous brands, in particular the ones that were selected as the top ten brands. The association is designed to be a platform for the exchange of ideas, raising awareness and helping the brand owners to register, manage and protect their brands regionally and internationally.

During the meetings, the AIPMAS’s Arab Center for Dispute Resolution (ACDR) was activated as a Dispute Resolution Service provider by the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN). In addition, the administrative and regulatory law and procedural rules, as well as the website, social media platforms and training programs, were set up.

The number of AIPMAS and ASIP members reached 261 in early 2016. These numbers include 31 new members from 2015/2016. In view of the significant increase in numbers, it was decided to approve the establishment of a magazine to be available to the members and affiliates, where they would be able to express their views on issues related to intellectual property rights.

During the meeting, the Board ratified the inclusion of the 31 new members. It was also decided to prepare a letter to be signed by the Chairman to be sent to officials in intellectual property- related organizations in all Arab countries, offering them the ACIPP program and its computerized exams, which are provided by ASIP, making them both available at the international level, in association with Talal Abu-Ghazaleh University.

18 Newsletter | December 2016

Abu-Ghazaleh at UbuntuNet in Uganda: We cooperate to develop the e-Infrastructures in Africa

ENTEBBE - The Arab States Research and Education Network (ASREN) participated in the annual conference of the UbuntuNet Alliance UC2016 which took place in Entebbe Uganda represented by its Executive Director Yousef Torman.

During the conference, specialized workshops to representatives of the National Research and Education Networks (NRENs) on both technical and communications aspects were held.

ASREN Chairman HE Dr. Talal Abu-Ghazaleh, highlighted the importance of participation in such events.

“We are proud with our longstanding relationship with the UbuntuNet Alliance as we share common objectives. We coordinate efforts for the development of research and education infrastructures in Africa together with GEANT and WACREN.”

In a pre-conference workshop, Torman gave a presentation on user engagement and delivered a message at opening session.

He also discussed with officials and representatives of regional and international organizations the opportunities of future cooperation in new areas that help develop and enhance services offered to users through research and education networks.

19 Newsletter | December 2016

TAG-SB Accreditation by the Foundation for International Business Administration is renewed for Seven Years with no reservations AMMAN - Talal Abu-Ghazaleh Graduate School of Business (TAG-SB)/ German Jordanian University MBA Program has renewed its accreditation from the Foundation for International Business Administration Accreditation (FIBAA) for a further seven years. (Valid until the end of Summer Semester 2022).

Following the renewal application, FIBAA Assessment Board conducted an on-campus review of the MBA Program in October 2016, evaluating the following five key issues with special focus on internationality, employability and economic relevance: program objectives, admission standards, content and structural concept of the study program, academic environment and framework standards and quality assurance which culminated in their recommendation that accreditation be extended for the School’s MBA program. .

The accreditation is granted to MBA Programs that maintain the highest standards of quality in teaching, research, policies, practices, and alumni and student achievements, and it also serves as an official recognition that TAG-SB conforms to internationally recognized standards and best practice with to the highest levels.

Dr. Mamoun Akroush, Dean of TAG-SB stated that FIBAA accreditation is an internationally recognized standard for the highest quality in business education and since this was a renewal of accreditation, the School had not only to meet the initial standards, but had to demonstrate its ongoing commitment to teaching excellence.

Dr. Akroush also stated that students studying at accredited school can be assured that the education they receive is of high academic quality and professional relevance. TAG-SB graduates compete with other graduates from top- ranked universities worldwide.

FIBAA is an institution for quality assurance with international experience. It awards its Quality Seal to Higher Education institutions and programs of high quality worldwide. Excellent performances, especially those that demonstrate a strong strategy-based and international profile, receive the FIBAA Premium Seal.

20 Newsletter | December 2016

TAG-Org Launches “Rhythms with Refugees” in Cooperation with UNRWA

AMMAN - “Rhythms with Refugees” is a project that aims to bring to the youth in the Palestinian refugee camp of Baqa’a in Jordan a full course of Arab traditional music as a social and artistic support tool. The project, implemented by the Talal Abu-Ghazaleh Organization in cooperation with UNWRA, utilizes the experience and creativity of the Jordanian National Orchestra’s Principal Percussionist Brad Broomfield. HE Dr. Talal Abu-Ghazaleh embraced this idea of the JOrchestra musician, believing in the positive educational impact of music and its power to unite and uplift people through a shared cultural heritage, a sentiment that HE often expresses trough “Music cures the spirit, just as medicine is for the body”.

The program originates from both Talal Abu-Ghazaleh Organization and the Jordanian National Orchestra Association’s mission of empowering social development through Arts education, and UNWRA’s goal to provide high quality education for Palestinian refugee children.

The program entails weekly Arts instruction, via the medium of traditional Arabic drumming, as a means of reducing the effects of trauma, of developing critical skills, of creating artistic expression, and increasing cultural awareness. The course gives students the opportunity to learn about music and rhythm in a creative environment while developing new and essential life skills.

A team of five artists will be teaching and performing in the weekly classes using a specialized curriculum, which brings together music, movement, history, language and creative expression.

“Rhythms with Refugees” utilizes the participants’ cultural heritage for psychological development: drumming has been proven to stimulate the entire brain, to reduce tension, anxiety and stress and to boost the immune system and help control chronic pain. In addition, it helps to free people from negative feelings and emotional trauma, improving the self-understanding and relationships with others in the community.

The Project aims to spread from the Baqa’a camp to Syrian refugee camps in Jordan.

21 Newsletter | December 2016

Abu-Ghazaleh Provides Training on Logistic Awareness to Faculty of Agriculture Graduates at Banha University

CAIRO – Talal Abu-Ghazaleh Professional Training Group (TAGI-TRAIN) Cairo and the Faculty of Agriculture at Banha University agreed on the means of cooperation with the aim of providing training to the faculty students and graduates.

According to the agreement, the two parties will provide training courses in the field of Logistic Awareness to 100 Faculty graduates and will be delivered in two phases.

The first phase targets shipping and exportation staff, transport officers, production and sorting and packaging supervisors, while the second phase will be held in March and April 2017, and focuses on training graduates in finding job opportunities in the agricultural field.

The meeting was held in the presence of Dr. Mahmoud Iraqi, Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, Mr. Kamel Salem, expert in Logistics at the Green Trade Initiative (GTI), and Mr. Tamer Al Diasti, training manager at TAGI-TRAIN Cairo.

During the meeting, Mr. Al Diasti stated that TAGI-TRAIN is working on the implementation of a training program on logistics in the agricultural field, within a project entitled the “Importance of the Logistic Process in Exporting Agricultural Crops” supported by the GTI of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization.