New Focal point for the ICOMOS Working Group on Sustainable Development goals (2024-2027)
ICOMOS is pleased to announce that Dr. Naima Benkari has been appointed as the new ICOMOS Focal Point to coordinate the Sustainable Development Goals Working Group (SDGWG) for the period 2024-2027.
Dr. Naima Benkari is an Associate Professor at Sultan Qaboos University in Oman and has served as an Associate Research Fellow at the University of Tokyo, Japan.
With over 22 years of experience in Islamic and vernacular architecture, heritage digitization, and sustainable development, she led the "Omani Vernacular Settlements Documentation & Management Plan" and has advised local and national authorities on integrating heritage into urban development.
"Through our collective sustained commitment, the role of cultural heritage in the SDGs can be deepened, leaving a legacy that highlights its essential contribution to building sustainable, resilient, and healthy societies." - Dr. Benkari
Dr. Benkari has authored numerous peer-reviewed papers and books in her areas of expertise. She has received several prestigious awards, including the Medal of Algerian Scholar (Algeria), the National Research Award (Oman), and the Sharjah University Women in Research Award (UAE).
As an expert member of ICOMOS, Dr. Benkari has collaborated with international organizations and national authorities, contributing to World Heritage Site nomination reviews and capacity-building programs across the Arab region and Africa.
As the newly appointed ICOMOS Focal Point for the SDGs, Dr. Benkari is dedicated to promoting the integration of heritage conservation and management with sustainable development practices, fostering global knowledge exchange and community-driven development.
As the final five years of the 2030 Agenda are approached, a pivotal moment is recognized. A collective effort is required to accelerate the integration of cultural heritage into global sustainable development initiatives, as stated by Dr. Benkari. Building on the exceptional work of the past years, the focus remains on advancing heritage as a key driver of sustainable development, resilience, and climate action. The WG's key priorities include addressing critical data gaps, strengthening partnerships across sectors, and ensuring that efforts lead to tangible outcomes. Amplifying the voices of underrepresented regions and fostering inclusivity are central to guiding these collective efforts toward impactful, lasting change.
ICOMOS expresses its deepest gratitude to Gabriel Caballero for his outstanding dedication and leadership as SDGWG Focal Point. His contributions have made a significant impact but have also set a high standard for excellence. At the same time, ICOMOS is pleased to welcome Dr. Naima Benkari to continue building on this success.
© Dr Naima Benkari
See also
The page of the ICOMOS Sustainable Development Goals Working Group (SDGWG)
The page on sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)