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Moroccan Intellectuals Gather in Marrakech to Commemorate the Legacy of Abdelghani Abou El Azm
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Moroccan Intellectuals Gather in Marrakech to Commemorate the Legacy of Abdelghani Abou El Azm

From Hespress · (5h ago) Arabic Positive tone

Translated from Arabic, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • Cultural figures and institutions gathered in Marrakech to commemorate the late Moroccan academic and writer Abdelghani Abou El Azm.
  • The event, organized by the Ahmed Chahlan Foundation, celebrated his contributions to Moroccan and Arab language, culture, and heritage.
  • Speakers highlighted Abou El Azm as a model of intellectual achievement and a significant figure in Moroccan academia.

Marrakech, the "Red City," came together to honor the intellectual legacy of Abdelghani Abou El Azm, a distinguished figure whose contributions to Moroccan and Arab culture resonate deeply. The commemoration, held on the fortieth day following his passing, was a testament to his enduring impact and the high esteem in which he is held within the Kingdom.

This scientific institution is honored to organize this meeting, attended by many prominent figures, associations, and Marrakech cultural institutions, in loyalty to the spirit and contributions of the late Abdelghani Abou El Azm, for the benefit of the Moroccan university, the city of dates, and for what he has given to the Arabic language, culture, civilization, and Moroccan heritage.

— Abdellatif El KrifaDean of the Faculty of Arts and Human Sciences at Marrakech, speaking at the commemoration event.

The Ahmed Chahlan Foundation, in collaboration with the Faculty of Arts and Human Sciences at Marrakech and Abou El Azm's family, orchestrated a heartfelt tribute. This gathering was more than a memorial; it was a celebration of a life dedicated to scholarship, language, and the preservation of Moroccan heritage. The presence of numerous intellectuals, associations, and cultural institutions underscored the widespread respect for his work.

Speakers at the event, including the Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Human Sciences, Abdellatif El Krifa, and poet Malika Al Assimi, emphasized Abou El Azm's profound connection to Marrakech and his significant role in enriching the Moroccan university system and Arab civilization. His life's work, particularly his comprehensive Arabic lexicon, serves as an inspiration, showcasing how dedication and intellect can elevate an individual to national and international prominence.

The goals of this initiative are twofold: first, to present the late Abdelghani Abou El Azm as a model of a simple, humble citizen who reached the highest levels through his knowledge and lectured at the largest Moroccan, Arab, and international universities, enriching the national and global library with numerous studies.

— Moulay Moumen MeriniRepresentative of the Ahmed Chahlan Foundation, explaining the purpose of the commemorative event.

From a Moroccan perspective, figures like Abou El Azm represent the intellectual prowess and cultural richness of our nation. While international media might focus on broader political or economic narratives, here in Morocco, we take pride in celebrating our scholars and cultural icons. This event highlights the importance of recognizing and perpetuating the contributions of those who shape our national identity and intellectual landscape, ensuring their legacy continues to inspire future generations.

The second issue behind organizing this memorial service is that the late scholar had a unique approach, represented by his rich lexicon, which is the most recent Arabic lexicon published in Morocco. Therefore, we want to make him a model for today's generation to emulate in scientific research.

— Moulay Moumen MeriniRepresentative of the Ahmed Chahlan Foundation, highlighting Abou El Azm's lexicographical work.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Hespress in Arabic. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.