GUST hosts 24th Cross Cultural Diwaniya
Gulf University for Science and Technology (GUST) yesterday hosted the latest Cross Cultural Diwaniya (CCD) on its campus, where people from various backgrounds meet to exchange views and promote critical thinking and progressive discussions on the most relevant and culturally significant issues of the day. Last night’s discussion touched on the topics of human rights and citizenship in Kuwait.
The event, which was open to the general public, was officially opened by CCD Founder, Faisal Al Fuhaid. This was followed by a brief introduction and two 45 minute rounds of structured discussions moderated by Dr Rania Al Nakib, Assistant Professor of Humanities and Social Sciences at GUST.
CCD Founder, Mr Faisal Al Fuhaid, said, “By providing a public forum for people to discuss important issues within Kuwaiti society goes to show how seriously we take the Cross Cultural Diwaniya. Years from now, I want this to happen naturally with people hosting their own diwaniyas and opening them to people from different backgrounds and schools of thought. By doing so, social cohesion and understanding amongst the people of Kuwait will increase.”
The Cross Cultural Diwaniya has become a landmark of debate and intelligent discussion, and tackles important and sensitive issues head on. Recent topics examined include the correlation between religion and spirituality, feminism, the rights of migrant workers, mental healthcare in Kuwait, and the recent bombing of the Imam Al Sadiq Mosque by an ISIS suicide bomber.
Assistant Professor of Humanities and Social Sciences at GUST, Dr Al Nakib, said, “Last night’s Cross-Cultural Diwaniya explored the idea of transformative citizenship through the lens of human rights. Issues covered included the difference between universal rights and citizen entitlements; the tensions between human rights, culture, and religion; the demise of national citizenship; and civic responsibility and action.”The Cross Cultural Diwaniya, occurs monthly, is open to everyone, and is free of charge to attend.