Under the patronage of His Excellency the Minister of Culture, Mr. Mustafa Al-Rawashdeh, and in the presence of the Governor of Mafraq, Dr. Firas Abu Qaoud, and the President of Al al-Bayt University, Professor Dr. Osama Nusier, the symposium organized by the Ministry of Culture titled “Jordan: Land and People… Mafraq, the Bride of the Badia and its Role in Building the Jordanian Narrative” was launched at Al al-Bayt University.

His Excellency the Minister of Culture, Mr. Mustafa Al-Rawashdeh, emphasized in his speech the importance of the Jordanian narrative project as a national project that contributes to documenting the Jordanian national story and highlighting the stages of construction and achievement that the Kingdom has witnessed throughout its history. He pointed to the pivotal role played by the Jordanian governorates in enriching this narrative and promoting the values of belonging and national identity. Al-Rawashdeh also referred to the sanctity of the place and history in Mafraq Governorate as a passage for caravans from the Levant and Iraq, and a homeland of many civilizations, and its role in embracing the vanguards of the Great Arab Revolt, where it became a station for stability and agricultural and industrial renaissance since ancient times.

His Excellency Dr. Amin Al-Mashaqbeh clarified in his speech the role of Mafraq Governorate in the Jordanian narrative throughout the ages due to its distinguished geopolitical and border location, which enabled it to play a major role in protecting the country’s borders. He also reviewed the demographic reality of the governorate and its positive developmental role that contributed to the prosperity of the agricultural and industrial movement in the governorate, stressing the pivotal role of the governorate in shaping the Jordanian national narrative through its history, heritage, and cultural and social legacy.

The Secretary-General of the Ministry of Governmental Communication, Dr. Zaid Al-Nawaisa, reviewed the ideas, goals, and outcomes associated with the Jordanian narrative project. He also discussed Jordan’s historical position and its civilizational role throughout the ages, and its historical role in defending the Palestinian cause. He added that we need to build a national awareness that provides a solid narrative about the Jordanian national identity based on the historical facts of a nation that follows a path of moderation, openness, and respect for humanity.

Sheikh Talal Al-Madi also addressed the customs, traditions, and norms prevailing in Mafraq Governorate, and their role in consolidating the values of social solidarity and preserving the authentic cultural identity, stressing that the governorate has always been a national model that reflects the values of the Jordanian Badia and its distinctive generosity, authenticity, and belonging.

The symposium was attended by the Vice Presidents of the University, a number of sheikhs and dignitaries of Mafraq Governorate, and a number of academics and those interested in cultural and intellectual affairs.

At the conclusion of the symposium, which was moderated by Dr. Amjad Al-Qadi, an extensive dialogue took place during which views, ideas, and recommendations were exchanged on the importance of documenting the Jordanian national narrative and promoting awareness of Jordan’s history and achievements, thereby contributing to solidifying national identity among future generations.