ICCROM Launches Training Course On Structural Conservation Of Built Heritage For Global Participants

The ICCROM Regional Centre in Sharjah has launched an online training course titled "Structural Conservation of Built Heritage." Running from 19th October to 10th November 2024, the course has attracted 275 participants from 24 countries across the Arab region and beyond. This initiative aims to educate attendees on the significance of structural conservation within the integrated conservation process.

Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of evaluating and addressing the complexities involved in conserving heritage buildings, especially following crises. The course encourages sharing projects on ICCROM's platforms, promoting knowledge dissemination and best practices in structural conservation. This effort aims to strengthen heritage institutions by qualifying youth teams and addressing expertise gaps through practical training.

The course is part of a broader program at the ICCROM Regional Centre in Sharjah, which includes academic research qualifications through a Master's Program in Cultural Heritage Conservation Management. This program is implemented in partnership with the University of Sharjah. It also offers practical skills training through seasonal courses, enhancing participants' ability to manage conservation projects effectively.

Architect Anwar Sabik, who manages the course and serves as Programme Officer (Training and Field Projects) at ICCROM, highlighted its significance. "This course is part of the training and capacity building program at the ICCROM Regional Centre in Sharjah," he stated. He noted significant participation from Arab and regional trainees dedicated to preserving cultural heritage.

The timing of this training is crucial as the region faces complex challenges due to damage caused by natural and human factors. Many tangible cultural heritage components have suffered damage, threatening their structure and survival. There has been a notable loss of knowledge regarding preservation methods due to infrastructure decline, brain drain, and halted training programs.

This situation underscores the need for expertise in structural consolidation for damaged heritage sites. The course aims to fill this gap by providing essential skills and knowledge for effective project management in conservation efforts. Participants will engage with critical questions related to structural conservation throughout their training.

Enhancing Heritage Protection

This initiative aligns with ICCROM's broader efforts to enhance heritage protection, disaster management, and first aid during crises. By equipping participants with necessary skills, it contributes significantly to preserving cultural heritage amidst ongoing challenges. The course supports strengthening capacities within member states' heritage institutions.

The programme also addresses expertise gaps by implementing practical training sessions alongside project implementation strategies. Participants are encouraged to showcase their work on ICCROM's platforms, facilitating wider dissemination of best practices in structural conservation across regions.

This comprehensive approach ensures that participants are well-prepared to tackle current challenges facing cultural heritage preservation while fostering collaboration among various institutions dedicated to this cause worldwide.

With inputs from WAM