Panel: Safeguarding the Cultural Heritage of Sufism: The Role of Academic Institutions
Sufism is one of the most important spiritual and cultural veins of Islamic civilization. It has guided the inner maturation of individuals and society on a social level for centuries and has left strong traces in the fields of art such as poetry, music, architecture and calligraphy. However, due to the rapid transformations of the modern era, the weakening of traditional information transmission channels and the impact of capitalism, materialization and secularization, Sufi culture is facing the danger of narrowing and superficiality today. At this point, one of the most important actors in safeguarding, documenting and transmitting the heritage of Sufism to future generations is academia. The academic world examines Sufi culture not only as a phenomenon limited to the Islamic world, but also as a universal set of values. Exploring the connections between Sufism and Western mysticism, modern psychology, or the philosophy of art strengthens intercultural dialogue and contributes to a broader global understanding of Sufism.
Academic studies make Sufism visible not only as historical heritage but also as a living culture that can meet the spiritual needs of contemporary societies. For this reason, academia, with both its scientific methods and educational mission, plays an indispensable role in transmitting Sufism to the future.
The International Mevlana Foundation (Accredited NGO to UNESCO 2003 Convention) will hold a panel discussion entitled “Safeguarding the Cultural Heritage of Sufism: The Role of Academic Institutions” in Istanbul on October 11, 2025.In this panel, we will have the opportunity to listen to the insights and reflections of distinguished scholars working in this field.
This significant event is organized to celebrate the International Day of the Intangible Cultural Heritage and to raise awareness about the importance of intangible cultural heritage, emphasizing its vital role in safeguarding identity and traditions.
Programme
13.30-14.15 Opening Speeches
14.30-17.00 Safeguarding the Cultural Heritage of Sufism: The Role of Academic Institutions
MODERATOR: Prof. Dr.Mim Kemal Ökeİstanbul Ticaret University
- Prof.Dr.ADNAN KARAİSMAİLOĞLU, Mevlana Studies Association, Chairperson
- Prof.Dr. KENAN GÜRSOY, Cenan Foundation, Chairperson, Ambassador
- Prof.Dr.MAHMUD EROL KILIÇ, Research Center for Islamic History, Art and
Culture (IRCICA), Director General, Ambassador
- Prof. Dr.MİM KEMAL ÖKE, İstanbul Ticaret University
- Prof.Dr.NURİ ŞİMŞEKLER, Selçuk University, Institute of Mevlana
Research, Director
- Prof.Dr.OĞUZ KARAKAYA, ÇanakkaleOnsekiz Mart University, Faculty of
Music and Performing Arts, Department of Music
- YASEMİN ÇELEBİ PAÇALIOĞLU, International Mevlana Foundation and İstanbul
Medeniyet University
Text as provided by the organiser(s).
