13th International Bediuzzaman Symposium

The 13th edition of the Bediuzzaman Symposium, organized by the Istanbul Foundation for Knowledge and Culture (İFKC) since 1990, will take place on October 4–6, 2026, in Istanbul. Bringing together hundreds of academics, scholars, madrasa teachers, influencers, media professionals, and senior bureaucrats from across the globe and every continent, the symposium aims to offer solutions to the material and spiritual crises that the world is currently facing. With the participation of individuals from various faiths and cultural backgrounds, the symposium will seek to find answers to today’s global challenges through the guidance of the Qur’an and Sunnah, under the light of shared human values. A detailed announcement regarding the main theme and subtopics of the symposium will be shared with the public in the coming days.

13.07.2025

Open Invitation Letter for the 13th International Bediuzzaman Symposium

Date: October 4–6, 2026
Location: Istanbul
Theme: Qur’anic Solutions for Global Crises /  الحلول القرآنية للمشكلات العالمية / Küresel Krizlere Kur’ânî Çözümler
bediuzzamansymposium.org

On behalf of the Istanbul Foundation for Knowledge and Culture (İFKC), we are honored and pleased to invite you to our upcoming international academic event entitled the 13th Bediuzzaman Symposium: Qur’anic Solutions for Global Crises, which will take place in Istanbul between October 4–6, 2026.

This symposium aims to develop universal, moral, and principled solutions from the perspective of the Risale-i Nur, guided by the Qur’an and Hadith, in response to the current global and regional crises. Our event, enriched by contributions from distinguished scholars and thought leaders, is designed to appeal to both the academic community and diverse segments of society.

Participant Profile and Representation

The symposium aims to bring together a wide range of participants from around the world, including but not limited to:

  • Government officials and senior bureaucrats

  • Academics and researchers

  • Religious leaders and opinion makers

  • Representatives of civil society organizations

  • Institutions operating in the field of education and culture

  • Media professionals and influencers

Organization

This prestigious event will be organized by the Istanbul Foundation for Knowledge and Culture (İFKC) in collaboration with prominent international NGOs, thought leaders, the Presidency of Religious Affairs of Türkiye (Diyanet), and various universities.

About the Istanbul Foundation for Knowledge and Culture (İFKC)

Founded in 1979 in Istanbul as a public-interest foundation, IIKV seeks to raise scholarly awareness and spiritual depth in society through its scientific and cultural activities. The foundation strives to present the universal messages of Islam in the context of today’s issues through an inclusive discourse rooted in shared human values and truth, emphasizing peace, justice, and humanity.

At the global level, IIKV organizes:

  • International symposiums and workshops

  • Academic publications and thematic education programs

  • Innovative educational models for the Islamic world

The Istanbul Institute of Civilization Studies (IICS), operating under the foundation, offers comprehensive educational content and consultancy services aimed at both the Islamic and Western worlds. The foundation is also a founding member of the Afro-Asian Union of Universities.

The IIKV maintains international cooperation with institutions such as IFMT (UK), Maqasid Institute (CANADA), IIK (USA), Collective Continuum (USA), Kalam Research (UAE), Gontor University (INDONESIA), and USIM (MALEYSIA). The symposium will also be held in collaboration with various civil society organizations, communities, and foundations in Türkiye and abroad. Moreover, IIKV and IIK jointly run the 5D Thinking for Transformative Teaching program, a wide-reaching educational initiative that engages educators from different countries.

Thematic Focus of the 13th International Bediuzzaman Symposium

This symposium will serve as a high-profile academic platform enriched by multinational participation and exemplary practices. Key topics to be discussed include:

  • Building a new civilization in response to global crises

  • Family policies

  • New and alternative educational models

  • The transformative impact of religion on society

 

Further Information

For detailed information and updates regarding the symposium, please visit:
 https://www.iikv.org

Personal communication channels will be shared with you regarding confirmation of participation, logistical details, and further inquiries.

Istanbul Foundation for Knowledge and Culture (İFKC)
symposium@iikv.org |  +90 212 527 8181 |  www.iikv.org

Contacts

  • Prof. Dr. Bayram Özer
    Chair, Scientific Committee

  • Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ünal Akyüz
    General Coordinator
    unalakyuz@iikv.org

  • Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mehmet Ali Gündoğdu
    Academic Coordinator
    mehmetali@iikv.org

  • Abdullah Santiago
    English Communication
    abdullah.s.salah@iikv.org

  • Abdurrahman Seyidoğlu
    Arabic Communication
    abdurrahman@iikv.org

Sincerely,
Said Yüce
Chairman of the Board of Trustees
Istanbul Foundation for Knowledge and Culture