Youth Contribution to the Intellectual Construction of Society: An Analytical Study of the Tajrad Foundation for Architecture and Arts

Abstract

The study focused on the contribution of youth to the intellectual construction of society by analyzing a creative youth initiative in the intellectual and artistic fields. It highlighted the role of "Tajreed" Foundation for Architecture and Arts. The study aimed to:

Identify the main characteristics of Libyan youth culture.

Examine the extent to which youth culture aligns with or diverges from the general culture of society.

Explore the sources from which youth derive their cultural and intellectual ideas.

Assess whether Libyan youth can enrich the cultural and intellectual framework of society.

The study employed a descriptive qualitative approach using case study methodology. Data were collected through unstructured interviews with youth affiliated with the Tajreed Foundation, focus group discussions to examine the intellectual aspects of the artworks displayed at the "Tahafut" exhibition, and an analysis of documents and publications issued by the foundation.

Key findings:

Libyan youth exhibit a critical subculture that seeks reform and change while maintaining ties to the broader cultural identity.

Youth derive their ideas from various sources, including local and global thinkers (e.g., Sadiq Al-Naihoum and Ibrahim Al-Kouni), as well as Arab and Islamic heritage.

The Tajreed Foundation played a pivotal role in fostering an intellectual environment for youth, enabling them to develop creative and critical perspectives reflected in their artistic works.

Artworks such as Al-Murbu’a and Unstable Chairs demonstrated the youth's ability to address societal and intellectual issues from a critical and innovative perspective.

Recent social and cultural transformations in Libya have shaped a new awareness among a distinctive segment of youth, highlighting their active role in intellectual development