The "Research Colloquium for Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies Switzerland (foki.ch)" provides a forum for academic exchange. The colloquium meets each semester twice alternately in Basel, Bern, Geneva or Zurich and addresses M.A. and PhD students of Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies and related subjects such as History, Linguistics, Religious Studies, Anthropology, Geography, etc. Other interested persons are cordially welcome - also those who wish to present their own project.

At each meeting, participants deliver presentations on ongoing projects. During the ensuing discussion (which is indeed the main target of the meetings) methodological questions are particularly addressed. Discussions usually continue afterwards dinner.

Foki is an initiative of the mid-level faculty and exists since 2000. Since 2002 it is an official joint course of the four Swiss seminars of Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies.