SMA Celebrates Ten Years Of The SAWA Programme At Landmark Conference For Museum Professionals

The Sharjah Museums Authority (SMA) has launched the SAWA Conference 2024, celebrating a decade of the SAWA programme. This initiative has played a crucial role in enhancing museum learning and professional growth across the Middle East and Europe. The event is organised with Crescent Group and the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority, supported by the German Consulate in Dubai.

Taking place from November 4th to 5th, 2024, at the Sharjah Archaeology Museum, this conference is a significant gathering for museum professionals and cultural enthusiasts. The opening ceremony included speeches from Sheikh Fahim Bin Sultan Bin Khalid Al Qasimi, Executive Chairman of the Department of Government Relations, Sybille Pfaff, Consul General of Germany in Dubai, and Aisha Rashid Deemas, Director General of SMA.

Sybille Pfaff highlighted SAWA's unique role in fostering cultural exchange and empowering those passionate about museum studies. "The program has been a unique and invaluable platform," she stated. For over ten years, it has provided participants with opportunities to expand their knowledge and apply it within their communities.

Sheikh Fahim Al Qasimi emphasised the collaboration between Sharjah and Berlin. He noted that this partnership creates opportunities beyond borders, allowing museums to become dynamic spaces for discovery. "This collaboration is about sharing knowledge," he said, "but also equally about nurturing an exchange of ideas that deepen our understanding of each other’s histories."

Aisha Rashid Deemas celebrated SAWA's journey over the past decade. She underscored its role in fostering cross-cultural understanding and professional development. "Today, as we gather," she stated, "we celebrate the 10th anniversary of the first edition of the SAWA Museum Studies Program." Launched in 2015 from Sharjah, it connects Arab heritage with European culture through innovative approaches.

The conference features sessions led by notable speakers like Prof. Dr. Stefan Weber and Prof. Dr. Susanne Kähler. Discussions will cover topics such as international cooperation between museums and cultural entities. These sessions aim to highlight how cross-cultural partnerships enhance staff development and improve museum standards.

Empowering Future Museum Leaders

The event underscores SAWA's cultural significance in advancing international collaborations that have improved museum practices globally. It also highlights its role in promoting cultural diplomacy and developing resilient leaders who can navigate evolving museum landscapes.

Sybille Pfaff praised SMA's commitment to sustainability, which she believes empowers new generations of museum professionals to make lasting contributions. She noted that SAWA has created a shared language within museum studies while enriching understanding across diverse backgrounds.

Throughout this two-day event, attendees will engage with experts like Dr. Gabriele Landwehr and Dr. Ulrike Al-Khamis on critical topics related to international cooperation among museums.

The conference marks a milestone for SAWA as it continues to build educational bridges between cultures while nurturing future leaders in museum studies.

With inputs from WAM