Dubai: The Dubai Press Club on Saturday announced that leading Arab professor and space scientist Dr Farouk Al Baz will be delivering the keynote address on the opening day of the 11th Arab Media Forum (AMF 2012).
The event, which runs from May 8 to 9, is pegged to be the largest media event in the region, drawing participation from more than 2,000 media practitioners from around the world.
The AMF 2012 will feature eight panel discussions and sessions that will be led by more than 70 distinguished media persons and political leaders.
For this year's forum, Al Baz--who is currently the director of the Center for Remote Sensing and Research Professor at the Departments of Archaeology, Electrical and Computer Engineering at Boston University in Massacusettes--will speak about his perspectives on media's role in boosting the morale of Arab communities in light of the political and social movement in the Arab region.
"Human civilization flourished primarily on the basis of science and knowledge. Towards furthering progress, a fundamental responsibility lies with the Arab media for enriching the intellectual environment and reforming education at all levels," Al Baz said ahead of the forum next month.
"It is essential to improve standards not only in general knowledge but also in the disciplines of science and technology. It is imperative that the Arab media examines such topical issues and launches a long-term campaign that calls for progressive change," he added.
Known for his pioneering work in the applications of space images to ground-water exploration in arid lands, Al Baz is a recipient of a number of awards such as Nasa's Apollo Achievement Award, State of Nevada Medal, and the Arab Republic of Egypt Order of Merit - First Class.
Dubai Press Club is the organiser of the annual Arab Media Forum and the Arab Journalism Awards.
