Global PR Challenge Launches At IGCF 2025 To Inspire Innovative Communication Solutions

The 14th International Government Communication Forum (IGCF) is set for September 10–11 at Expo Centre Sharjah. The event, themed "Communication for Quality of Life," will feature the debut of the "Global PR Challenge – Sharjah Edition." This initiative, organised by the Sharjah Government Media Bureau (SGMB), will see 20 students from various regions compete in teams for the Sharjah Government Communication Award (SGCA).

Participants in the Global PR Challenge will develop communication solutions inspired by the Your Sharjah campaign. This competition aims to foster emerging talent and connect students with global industry experts. It also provides a platform for exchanging creative ideas in government communication and modern media, enhancing Sharjah’s reputation as a media innovation hub.

The challenge encourages participants to propose sustainable communication strategies addressing social, environmental, economic, and educational issues. These efforts will be evaluated by a jury of leading experts in a competitive environment. The top three teams will present their campaigns live at IGCF, with winners honoured at the SGCA ceremony on September 11.

The pre-forum programme includes several competitions designed to inspire creativity and innovation. Alongside the Global PR Challenge, organised with the International Communications Consultancy Organisation (ICCO) and American University of Sharjah (AUS), there is also the University Challenge in partnership with United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) and the AI Skills Challenge with Rubu’ Qarn Foundation for Science & Technology.

The fourth edition of the University Challenge involves 12 university teams from within UAE and abroad. This year’s theme is "The Importance of Food Security in Achieving Community Sustainability." Students will bridge technology with cultural identity, translating ideas into communication messages and policy recommendations that enhance societal stability.

Rubu’ Qarn Foundation for Science & Technology will host the AI Skills Challenge for youth aged 10 to 16. Approximately 45 participants will work on smart solutions for contemporary challenges like food security, sustainability, and quality of life. The programme involves four stages: learning, ideation, implementation, and presentation.

Educational Technologies and Expert Guidance

Participants in the AI Skills Challenge will gain practical exposure to artificial intelligence, design thinking, and innovative problem-solving. They will be guided by 12 experts specialising in agriculture, AI tools, programming, robotics, 3D printing, AI modelling, technical soft skills, and mentorship.

A panel of subject-matter experts will select the top three submissions from each challenge. Winning teams will be honoured during the SGCA ceremony. This initiative underscores IGCF’s role as a prominent platform for dialogue among decision-makers, experts, academics, and youth to exchange insights on best practices in communication.

IGCF highlights Sharjah’s position as a global destination for knowledge and innovation while fostering constructive dialogue on pressing developmental challenges. The forum brings together diverse voices to explore solutions that address societal needs effectively.

With inputs from WAM