In this insightful discussion, Mr. Ibrahim Mekkawy , Head of Learning at WAAD Academy in Jeddah, Waad Academy Schools, a Cambridge school in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, is part of the Waad Education Company, which also includes Dar Al Dhikr and Bloom Schools – مدارس براعم الأزهار.
Mr. Mekkawy highlighted the importance of cultural education for Generation Z. He discusses the significance of preserving cultural identity, the role of cultural heritage in personal and social development, and the challenges educators face in making cultural studies relevant to today’s youth.
Below is a detailed account of the discussion.
1. Why do you believe studying culture is essential for Generation Z?
Answer: “Studying culture is crucial for Generation Z because it forms the core of their identity and serves as a foundation for understanding themselves and their environment,” Mr. Mekkawy explains. In the era of globalization and rapid technological advancement, Gen Z is continuously exposed to a variety of cultural influences. This exposure makes it even more essential for them to connect with their Arab and Islamic roots.
When young people understand their own cultural heritage, it provides a sense of grounding amidst the myriad of external influences. According to research by the World Economic Forum, fostering a strong cultural identity can enhance resilience in young people, helping them to navigate global changes while maintaining their values. Thus, studying culture is not just about preserving the past but is also about empowering youth to confidently face the future without losing their unique cultural essence.
2. How does understanding cultural heritage impact the personal and social development of students?
Answer: Understanding cultural heritage has a profound impact on both the personal and social development of students. On a personal level, Mr. Mekkawy emphasizes that cultural heritage nurtures a deep sense of pride and belonging, helping students develop a solid foundation for their identity. This internal strength can be crucial in building confidence and self-esteem.
Socially, cultural knowledge equips students with the tools to communicate effectively and respectfully within their own communities and beyond. It fosters mutual understanding, tolerance, and the ability to build positive relationships with people from different backgrounds. According to a study by UNESCO, students who are engaged in cultural studies demonstrate higher levels of social responsibility and cooperation, which are critical skills in today’s interconnected world. Mr. Mekkawy concludes that such understanding is essential for developing well-rounded individuals who can contribute positively to society.
3. What challenges do you face when encouraging Gen Z students to engage with cultural studies?
Answer: Mr. Mekkawy acknowledges that there are several challenges in encouraging Gen Z to actively participate in cultural studies. “The primary challenge is the overwhelming influence of technology and social media, which often promotes values and lifestyles that may conflict with our traditional values,” he notes. Social media trends can make local culture seem less appealing, leading students to disengage from their own heritage.
Another challenge is the gap between traditional teaching methods and modern learning preferences. Gen Z students are accustomed to interactive and digital forms of learning, which makes conventional textbook-based cultural education seem dull. Mr. Mekkawy suggests that making cultural studies more interactive and relatable can bridge this gap and increase student interest. He adds that the perception of cultural studies as outdated or irrelevant can be mitigated by connecting historical content to present-day issues and by using contemporary examples.
4. In your experience, what approaches have been most effective in making cultural studies relevant to today’s youth?
Answer: “Integrating technology into cultural education has been one of the most effective strategies,” says Mr. Mekkawy. This includes using e-learning platforms, virtual reality (VR) tours of historical sites, and interactive applications that allow students to explore cultural heritage in a more engaging way. For example, the use of mobile apps like Google Arts & Culture, which offers virtual exhibitions and interactive learning experiences, has made cultural studies more appealing to younger audiences.
Additionally, Mr. Mekkawy highlights the importance of connecting cultural heritage with students’ daily lives. He believes that providing real-world applications and examples helps students see the relevance of their heritage. Project-based learning, cultural field trips, and hands-on activities, such as creating documentaries or participating in cultural festivals, are some of the methods that have proven successful. Furthermore, involving influential youth figures who advocate for cultural appreciation can make the subject more relatable and inspiring for students.
5. What role does cultural education play in preparing students for a globalized world?
Answer: Cultural education, according to Mr. Mekkawy, plays a pivotal role in preparing students for a globalized world. “It gives them a strong sense of identity and heritage, enabling them to stand confidently when interacting with other cultures,” he asserts. This knowledge empowers students to engage with the world from a position of strength, without feeling overwhelmed or losing their sense of self.
Moreover, cultural education enhances critical thinking and intercultural communication skills, which are essential in a multicultural world. As the World Bank emphasizes, students equipped with cultural competence are better prepared to contribute to international dialogues and collaborate across borders. Mr. Mekkawy adds that such education helps students appreciate cultural diversity and fosters mutual respect, which are key components for peaceful coexistence in a global society.
By understanding their own cultural values, students can also serve as ambassadors of their heritage, sharing it with others and enriching the global cultural mosaic. This awareness not only preserves their cultural identity but also prepares them to be thoughtful, empathetic, and effective global citizens.
Conclusion
In this interview, Mr. Ibrahim Mekkawy has highlighted the vital role that cultural education plays in shaping the identity, values, and social skills of Generation Z. As globalization and digital technologies continue to reshape our societies, cultural studies serve as a compass that guides young people in navigating complex global dynamics while preserving their own heritage. He emphasized that by integrating modern teaching methods and connecting cultural content to students’ daily lives, educators can make cultural studies engaging and relevant to today’s youth. Moreover, a strong cultural foundation not only enhances personal development but also equips students with the skills needed to respect and appreciate cultural diversity in a globalized world.
Ultimately, understanding and valuing one’s cultural heritage is not just an academic pursuit—it is a lifelong asset that empowers future generations to become confident, well-rounded, and responsible global citizens.
References
The following references were also used and discussed during the discussion
- UNESCO’s Perspective on Culture and Sustainable Development: This reference discusses the role of culture in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and highlights how cultural heritage and creativity contribute to the economic, social, and environmental dimensions of sustainable development. It provides an overview of UNESCO’s efforts to integrate culture into development policies and emphasizes the importance of cultural tourism, adaptive reuse of heritage sites, and community engagement. This document can be accessed directly on UNESCO’s website here
- Diversity of Cultural Expression: This source focuses on the 2005 Convention for the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions, which provides a framework to ensure cultural diversity is preserved and nurtured globally. It covers UNESCO’s strategies for supporting creative industries, promoting intercultural dialogue, and developing policies to safeguard cultural expressions, particularly in regions facing social and economic challenges. You can explore the full document here