SGCA 2025 Establishes Global Partnerships With CSO Network, Asia House, And AAP For Sustainable Development

The Sharjah Government Media Bureau (SGMB) has revealed that three global organisations have been accredited as official partners for the Sharjah Government Communication Award 2025 (SGCA). These partnerships, under the "Partner Awards" categories, emphasise communication's vital role in promoting Sustainable Development Goals.

The Chief Sustainability Officers Network (CSO Network), Asia House, and the Alliance for African Partnership (AAP) are the newly accredited partners. The CSO Network is a leadership platform dedicated to corporate sustainability. Asia House is a think tank that fosters commercial and political engagement between Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. AAP is a collaborative initiative led by Michigan State University and African institutions to support development across Africa.

Through these collaborations, specialised award categories have been introduced. Each partner nominates initiatives or entities they consider most deserving based on SGCA’s criteria and their expertise areas. The 'Best Communication Practices Dealing with Development Advances' award, presented with the CSO Network, acknowledges exceptional communication strategies addressing environmental, food security, and sustainable development challenges.

Eligible campaigns must creatively employ advanced technologies like artificial intelligence, data analysis, and digital media to raise awareness and influence behaviour. Topics may include environmental protection, food security, and sustainable consumption. The 'Award for Outstanding Development & Cultural Communication,' in partnership with Asia House and AAP, celebrates regional initiatives using communication to drive inclusive and sustainable change.

This category comprises two subcategories. The 'Excellence in Communication for Sustainable Development,' accredited by Asia House, recognises Southeast Asian initiatives fostering economic, social, cultural, or environmental progress. Eligible projects should demonstrate measurable improvements in education, healthcare, environmental practices, or community resilience.

Empowering Communities Through Communication

The second subcategory involves collaboration with AAP and its academic partners across Africa. It is titled 'Excellence in Communication for Food Security and Quality of Life.' This award acknowledges programmes that have significantly impacted rural development, agriculture, and food systems. Submissions should show how initiatives empowered farmers or youth and increased awareness around food security.

Her Excellency Alia Al Suwaidi of SGMB commented on these partnerships: "Communication is no longer just about delivering messages; it is a force for change that strengthens social cohesion and advances humanitarian goals." She highlighted that the new categories aim to create opportunities for impactful communication addressing global challenges like food security and cultural inclusion.

Dr. Yasar Jarrar from the CSO Network expressed pride in partnering with SGCA: "We are proud to partner with the SGCA on the 'Best Communication Practices Dealing with Development Advances' award." He emphasised their shared commitment to showcasing how strategic communication can accelerate sustainability.

Michael Lawrence OBE from Asia House stated: "Asia House is proud to partner with SGCA 2025 to spotlight the vital role communication plays in shaping inclusive and sustainable development." He noted their aim to promote collaboration across Southeast Asia by recognising initiatives fostering economic progress.

Titus Awokuse from Michigan State University remarked on SGCA 2025's focus: "During SGCA 2025, the important role of communication in advancing food security and improving quality of life across Africa will be highlighted." He stressed that effective communication empowers communities by fostering knowledge sharing essential for positive change on the continent.

These partnerships underscore how strategic communication can drive meaningful progress towards achieving Sustainable Development Goals globally.

With inputs from WAM