TRENDS Research and Advisory, in collaboration with the Alettihad News Centre, demonstrated its commitment to nurturing and empowering young researchers by hosting a compelling panel titled "Empowering Young Researchers: The Significance of Research and Student Exchange" at TRENDS’ pavilion in the “Paris International Book Fair 2024”.

Held at TRENDS’ pavilion within the Exhibition Centre of the Grand Palais Éphémère in the heart of Paris, the event featured Dr. Patrice Brodeur, an associate professor at the University of Montreal, alongside UAE students from the Sorbonne University, researchers, media influencers and content creators.

The panel explored the pivotal role of research and student exchange in honing the skills of young researchers and fostering global dialogue. Esteemed speakers highlighted the collaborative efforts of think tanks, universities, educational institutions, and media in facilitating skill development among youth.

Dr. Mohammad Abdullah Al-Ali, CEO of TRENDS, highlighted the Centre's dedication to strengthening research collaboration with both local and international academic institutions. He emphasised TRENDS' role in providing training in scientific research methodologies to numerous students and young researchers.

Dr. Al-Ali pointed out that several young researchers affiliated with TRENDS have engaged in research exchange initiatives with international academic institutions. These programmes aim to refine their skills, empower them through exposure to diverse experiences, and enhance their research and analytical capabilities.

Dr. Hamad Al Kaabi, CEO of the Alettihad News Centre, lauded TRENDS’ endeavours in bolstering the skills of young researchers, underlining the media's crucial role in fostering global cultural exchange and tightening closer ties between peoples and cultures.

He stressed the significance of communication and dialogue, underscoring that knowledge and culture serve as the gateway to understanding others and realising the principles of coexistence and tolerance.

Dr. Al Kaabi highlighted the importance of prominent media platforms in supporting youth in their research and knowledge pursuits by providing avenues for them to disseminate their research findings and ideas. He added, “We are dedicated at the Alettihad News Centre to strengthening collaboration with research and academic institutions to enhance students' and young researchers' intellectual awareness, and to actively engage with their ideas and visions for the future.”

Dr. Patrice Brodeur, an associate professor at the University of Montreal, Canada, underlined the numerous benefits for students involved in research and student exchange programmes across diverse countries and cultures. These advantages include gaining insights into various cultures and elevating their educational achievements. Dr. Brodeur highlighted the positive impact of collaboration between universities and research centres in enhancing the research and intellectual abilities of both students and young researchers.

Participants discussed the importance of the role that research and student exchange play in enhancing the skills of young researchers and helping them acquire different research experiences that enable them to work in the research field.

The TRENDS’ pavilion at the “Paris International Book Fair 2024” remained a focal point, drawing attendees eager to explore its publications. Many lauded its diversity and relevance to current events.

A substantial number of researchers, writers and officials from various participating pavilions sought information about TRENDS and its initiatives.

As part of its endeavours to expand its global presence and establish strategic research partnerships, TRENDS Research & Advisory team, present at the “Paris International Book Fair 2024”, engaged with the Quebec Pavilion, Canada, the Fair's guest of honour known for its vibrant cultural landscape. Similar interactions took place at the Pavilion of the Romanian Cultural Institute, where the team met with its director, Doina Marian, to explore opportunities for collaboration in research and knowledge exchange.

TRENDS’ pavilion at the “Paris International Book Fair 2024” has attracted momentous attention from the media, including social media influencers who have spotlighted the pavilion's excellence across their platforms.

They have talked about its unique status as the sole Arab pavilion at the exhibition, championing its global research vision that serves as a bridge between the East, the Middle East, and the West. These influencers offered analyses of various publications showcased at the pavilion, highlighting their depth and balanced, well-documented approach to events. They recognise the potential of such research to shape perspectives, develop solutions, and address challenges.

The Media Communications Department at TRENDS plays a major role in facilitating information dissemination to journalists and celebrities, ensuring the public stays informed about the activities at the Center’s pavilion in Paris and other associated events through various platforms. Additionally, three episodes of the "TRENDS Podcast" were recorded in Paris, chronicling the French European tour and TRENDS' participation in the exhibition through interviews with notable figures covering a range of topics.