Friends Of Arthritis Patients Recognises Schools For Outstanding Arthritis Awareness Initiatives In 2025

The Friends of Arthritis Patients Association (FOAP), part of the Health Promotion Department of the Supreme Council for Family Affairs in Sharjah, recently marked the 3rd Arthritis-Friendly Schools Award. This initiative engaged schools across Sharjah to enhance awareness and support for arthritis patients. The award underscores the Association's dedication to fostering a comprehensive health culture within educational settings.

Students, with significant backing from administrative and academic staff, crafted innovative projects aimed at educating peers about arthritis and effective coping strategies. This impactful programme was executed in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Sharjah Private Education Authority. The Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) generously sponsored the event, providing awards to all participants and winners.

Al Nahwa School achieved first place with a perfect score of 100 percent, while Taryam American Private School-2nd cycle was honoured at the Sharjah City level. In the Central Region, Al Thameed School-1st cycle and Al Bridi School-2nd cycle received accolades. Al Khalidiya Boys School-3rd cycle was recognised at the Eastern Region level.

Beyond Sharjah, Al Taween School from Fujairah and Jumeirah School from Dubai were also celebrated for their impactful health initiatives. Wahida Abdulaziz, Chairperson of FOAP, stated, "We are proudly honouring these inspiring role model schools today. Their unique and impactful activities truly exceeded expectations."

The programme successfully involved over 11,000 students from 30 schools in Sharjah. These students significantly advanced health awareness through creative educational and sporting initiatives both within and outside their school premises. Wahida Abdulaziz further added, "Today, we celebrate individuals who understood their crucial role by prioritising health, and students who have become true health ambassadors."

This achievement marks a vital step forward in promoting community support and preventive health within schools. The ceremony highlighted the importance of ongoing collaboration between health and education sectors as foundational pillars for promoting health awareness.

Encouraging Broader Participation

Schools play a leading role in transforming health messages into tangible realities. The Association encouraged all Sharjah schools to learn from the successful experiences of winning institutions, viewing them as shining examples to be followed. This initiative aims to build a healthier future for generations to come through increased awareness.

With inputs from WAM