Sultan Bin Ahmed Highlights Sustainability And Education At IGCF 2025 Sessions

H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and Chairman of the Sharjah Media Council, participated in significant discussions at the 14th International Government Communication Forum (IGCF 2025). His involvement highlighted Sharjah's dedication to fostering global conversations on societal and economic issues.

During the forum, H.H. attended sessions focusing on sustainability and education. One session, "The Green Economy… A New Vision for Food and Development," explored innovative sustainability strategies. Another session, "Human Stories in Life and Education… Inspiring Communities, Redefining Quality of Life," examined how education and storytelling can strengthen communities.

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In the green economy session, Professor Titus O. Awokuse from Michigan State University emphasized universities' roles in food security. He advocated for embedding green-economy skills in curricula and increasing agricultural investment to promote this culture widely. He stressed that universities should extend beyond academia to become information hubs supporting creativity and problem-solving.

Hamed Al Hamed, Chairman of the Emirates Agricultural Pioneers Association, discussed modernising agriculture in the UAE. "Agriculture is no longer confined to traditional farming; it has evolved into a multi-dimensional sector that can support economic growth and social development," he stated. Gracia Group's model integrates agri-tourism, food processing, AI consulting, water treatment, recycling, and training centres.

Dina Sherif from the MIT Kuo Sharper Centre highlighted the need to bridge science with commercialisation for a successful green economy. "Innovation is only innovation if it is commercialised," she noted. She stressed that applied research must reach markets to drive real impact and highlighted women's and youth's roles in sustainable development.

Sherif also pointed out that universities can act as catalysts by combining technology with education to address challenges like water scarcity and climate resilience. She mentioned that the Arab world has a high number of female STEM graduates who could contribute significantly to innovation.

Human Stories Shaping Communities

The panel on human stories included Dr Saeed Musabah Al Kaabi from the University of Dhaid; Katie Merx from Merx Communications; and Amaj Rahimi-Midani from Poseidon-AI. They explored how narratives can inspire communities and improve quality of life through practical tools.

Dr Saeed illustrated Sharjah’s cultural narrative using its iconic landmarks like the Book roundabout surrounded by significant buildings. "This is not a coincidence," he said, emphasising how these symbols shape community narratives.

Narratives Impacting Quality of Life

Katie Merx stressed that human-centred narratives based on success stories are vital for many groups. She noted that understanding audience interests is crucial when publishing stories to ensure clarity in messaging.

Amaj Rahimi-Midani discussed quality of life through three dimensions: people, environment, and other creatures sharing our planet. "Right now, quality of life is defined only through the human perspective: cars, houses, comfort," he explained. He argued for considering environmental balance as part of quality narratives.

Charlie Humphreys from Asia House called for increased agricultural investment due to climatic changes affecting global markets. He noted trade tensions between the US and China impact markets negatively. Humphreys urged comprehensive reviews of net-zero roadmaps linking food security with sustainable production.

With inputs from WAM