Sharjah Ruler Inaugurates 5th Arab Forum For Cultural Heritage Focused On Women And Youth
His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, attended the launch of the fifth Arab Forum for Cultural Heritage. Organised by ICCROM-Sharjah, the event focused on "The Role of Women and Youth in Preserving Cultural Heritage and Museum Innovation." It took place at the Centre of International Organisations for Cultural Heritage in Sharjah University City.
The ceremony began with the UAE national anthem. Nasir Al Darmaki, Deputy Manager of ICCROM-Sharjah, welcomed attendees and praised Sheikh Dr. Sultan's support for cultural initiatives. He emphasised the forum's aim to empower women and youth in heritage preservation and highlighted Sharjah’s efforts to enhance their societal roles.
Sheikh Fahim bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Department of Government Relations, spoke about heritage as a living value rooted in memory and practice. He stressed that it is not just about preserving artefacts. He highlighted Arab women's role as heritage guardians and youth as innovators who blend tradition with technology.
In a recorded message, Aruna Francesca Maria Gujral, Director-General of ICCROM, expressed gratitude to Sheikh Dr. Sultan for his vision and ongoing support. She described the forum as a platform for amplifying voices, sharing experiences, and forming partnerships that shape heritage preservation's future.
Dr Abdulaziz Al Musallam, Chairman of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, discussed heritage's influence on Arab identity. He stressed involving women and youth as links between past and future. He also noted that museum innovation is crucial to presenting heritage in a modern way without losing authenticity.
Zaki Nusseibeh, Cultural Advisor to the UAE President, delivered the keynote address on youth, heritage, and cultural resilience in the Arab world. He highlighted women's role in passing down traditions and youth's contribution to reviving cultural memory through digital tools.
Youth-Led Initiatives
Nusseibeh shared inspiring stories of youth-led initiatives and offered policy recommendations to support youth empowerment in this field. The programme included a qanun performance featuring Emirati pieces before concluding with commemorative photos with Sheikh Dr. Sultan.
The three-day forum underscores Sharjah’s dedication to heritage as a cornerstone of Arab identity and sustainable development. It highlights women as cultural knowledge transmitters and youth as innovators offering creative solutions for heritage conservation.
The opening was attended by Sheikh Fahim bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Sheikh Majid bin Abdullah Al Qasimi, Sheikha Nawar bint Ahmed Al Qasimi, Zaki Nusseibeh, along with senior officials, cultural leaders, and representatives from Arab and international institutions.
With inputs from WAM
Sign in with Google