UAE's Commitment To Advancing Children's Rights Highlighted By H.H. Sheikha Latifa At World Early Childhood Development Forum
The UAE has made significant strides in promoting children's rights, becoming a global leader in child protection and welfare. H.H. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, highlighted this achievement at the World Early Childhood Development (WED) Forum in Abu Dhabi. She emphasised the country's initiatives to nurture future generations and establish laws that enhance children's roles in society.
Held from 30-31 October, the World Early Childhood Development Forum was under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The event was part of Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Week and aimed to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange in early childhood development. It focused on achieving tangible outcomes and pioneering solutions both locally and globally.
In her address, H.H. Sheikha Latifa stressed the importance of specialised research, studies, and data, particularly within the Arab world. She noted that focusing on three strategic pillars—Intentional Parenting, Culture and Identity, and Sustainable Family-Friendly Cities—is crucial for raising future generations connected to their identity and committed to authentic values.
H.H. Sheikha Latifa also discussed early childhood education's vital role in shaping a child's intellectual and emotional growth. She highlighted the need for innovation driven by knowledge in this field. "We must commit to creating educational and media content that resonates with the curiosity and evolving minds of our young ones," she stated.
The significance of language in healthy development was another key point raised by H.H. Sheikha Latifa. She noted that Arabic is foundational to identity, history, and heritage. Strengthening children's connection to Arabic involves more than vocabulary; it anchors them deeply in their national identity while enriching their understanding of the world.
The WED Forum featured over 30 interactive sessions, panel discussions, advanced training, and workshops with 50 speakers from 20 sectors. Notable figures included Sheikha Hala Bint Mohammed Al Khalifa, CEO of the Nuwah Foundation; Sheikh Dr. Majid Sultan Al Qassimi, Founder of Soma Mater; and Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation.
Call for Collaborative Efforts
H.H. Sheikha Latifa concluded her speech by urging society members and relevant organisations to collaborate on creating educational resources focused on parenting and childhood. She stressed investing in children is crucial for shaping their identity and sense of belonging while fostering creativity within a strong Arab family rooted in authenticity.
With inputs from WAM
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