From 1–5 September 2025, the University of Bern hosted the SMILE (Sustainability in the Middle East) Summer School. This unique program was made possible through an ENLIGHT Incubator Grant coordinated by Prof. Dr. Nijmi Edres (University of Bern), in collaboration with Prof. Dr. Aymon Kreil (University of Ghent) and Prof. Dr. Riem Spielhaus (University of Göttingen).
The summer school brought together a diverse group of students from the three partner universities, all eager to explore how education, social justice, and environmental issues intersect in the Middle East. The result was an inspiring week of learning, dialogue, and collaboration around the broad theme of sustainability.
The program began with a warm introductory session, where participants were welcomed by the organizing team, introduced to SMILE’s goals, and engaged in icebreaking activities that fostered a sense of community from the very start.
Day 2 focused on the role of education in sustainable development in the Middle East. Students critically examined the concept of “quality education” through a case study of bottom-up alternative education initiatives in Cairo. This was followed by a thought-provoking session on artificial intelligence and sustainability, addressing the challenges AI poses for knowledge production, cultural heritage preservation, and the use of natural resources.
On Day 3, attention shifted to reducing inequalities. The day opened with a historical overview of Arab socialism, before moving to discussions on legal and societal transformations in Egypt and Morocco, with a particular focus on women’s rights. The afternoon explored sustainability in finance, including the principles and contemporary practice of Islamic banking and its approach to global sustainability challenges.
Day 4 delved into environmental issues, offering a rich mix of perspectives. Students engaged with theoretical approaches in political ecology, examined architectural and building practices in contemporary Cairo, and participated in sessions on sustainable land management. The day concluded with reflections on environmental futurities in contemporary Middle Eastern art, inviting participants to think about creative visions of ecological futures.
The program concluded on Day 5 with a highly interactive focus on water management. Students participated in a role-playing game that simulated the complexities of decision-making in water governance. A debriefing session and group brainstorming activities allowed participants to consolidate their insights and connect the week’s themes to real-world challenges.
Beyond the academic program, the social dinner in Bern provided a relaxed and convivial setting for informal exchanges among the students.
Overall, the SMILE Summer School offered a rich combination of lectures, discussions, practical exercises, and reflective work. The high level of student engagement throughout the week confirmed the value of creating a space where diverse perspectives can come together to address pressing issues in the Middle East.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to all speakers, facilitators, and students who contributed to making this summer school such a success.
