The Regional Coordinator of URI MENA, Mamoun Khreisat, had the honor of co-facilitating the “Spirit of Dialogue” training course on interfaith dialogue and youth work, held in the vibrant city of Rabat, Morocco last week. This transformative program—organized by SALTO Inclusion & Diversity and SALTO Euromed, with support from the French and Italian National Agencies of the Erasmus+ programme—provided a dynamic platform for critical reflection, skill development, and the cultivation of practical strategies to foster more inclusive and understanding communities.
The training brought together over 30 professionals actively engaged in youth work, including youth workers, educators, coaches, social and health workers, and employment officers. Representing 26 countries and a diverse array of religious and spiritual traditions, participants enriched the discussions with their unique perspectives and shared commitment to peacebuilding, mutual understanding, and constructive dialogue.
A key focus of the program was exploring the role of interfaith dialogue in youth work. Through interactive sessions, participants examined:
• The fundamentals of interfaith dialogue—its potential, challenges, and relevance in youth work.
• Strategies for critical self-reflection on personal beliefs, structural barriers, and organizational practices.
• Practical tools and methodologies to address issues of religion, faith, and belief within youth groups and communities.
By encouraging an environment of collaborative learning and innovation, the training empowered participants to integrate interfaith dialogue approaches into their work, ultimately contributing to more cohesive and harmonious societies.
