Al-balqa: The International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) and Al-Balqa Applied University (BAU) have entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at fostering cooperation in the preservation of cultural heritage, as well as enhancing research, training, and capacity building efforts.
According to Jordan News Agency, the agreement was signed by Princess Dana Firas, President of ICOMOS Jordan, and Ahmad Ajlouni, President of BAU. The focus of the MoU is on the integration of modern technologies, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), to enhance knowledge and professional practices within Jordan's cultural heritage sector.
The partnership is designed to strengthen academic-professional collaboration, advance the protection of heritage, and utilize digital innovation to support sustainable development efforts. Princess Dana emphasized that the agreement reinforces partnerships to safeguard cultural heritage, facilitate research and capacity building, and develop skilled professionals. She highlighted the role of AI in documenting, analyzing, and managing heritage sites through data-driven solutions.
Ahmad Ajlouni remarked that BAU aims to forge strategic partnerships that align academic knowledge with sustainable development priorities, including the protection of heritage, while integrating AI applications into education, training, and research.
The agreement outlines plans for joint studies, expertise and research material exchanges, development of sustainable approaches to heritage challenges like climate change, and the implementation of specialized training programs and workshops. A joint committee will oversee the execution of these plans and initiatives, with the agreement being valid for four years.