Latest news with #MonthofReading
Sharjah 24
30-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Sharjah 24
Kalimat Foundation announces region's 1st inclusive book series
Chaired by Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Founder and Chairperson of Kalimat Foundation, the Board of Trustees convened at Expo Centre Sharjah to review this landmark achievement and set future strategies to expand the Foundation's humanitarian and educational impact. The meeting was attended by members of the Board of Trustees, including Sheikha Lubna bint Khalid Al Qasimi; Sheikh Fahim bin Sultan bin Khalid Al Qasimi; Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan; Dr. Muhadditha Al Hashimi; Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri; His Excellency Mohamed Abdullah; Ahlam Bolooki; and Fuad Mansoor Sharaf. A transformative step for inclusive literacy The newly announced inclusive book series has been thoughtfully designed to serve both visually impaired and sighted children equally. Developed with the support of Sharjah Islamic Bank and Sharjah Charity Association, the print-braille collection offers educational and recreational content through printed text, braille, and tactile illustrations, broadening horizons and fostering a shared culture of reading. This initiative is the first of its kind in the region, representing a transformative step forward in accessible publishing and reinforcing Kalimat Foundation's vision of a future where every child can learn, imagine, and thrive on equal footing. Commenting on the book series launch, Her Excellency Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi said during the Board of Trustees meeting: "This new inclusive book series embodies our belief that every child deserves to experience the magic of reading. By creating books that bring together visually impaired and sighted children in a shared reading experience, we are taking a decisive step towards building a more inclusive and compassionate future. This initiative reflects our commitment to not just closing the accessibility gap, but reimagining a world where diversity is embraced, and knowledge is a right for all." As part of its participation in the Sharjah Children's Reading Festival, Kalimat Foundation is showcasing the inclusive book series at its dedicated pavilion, offering visitors a first-hand experience of the Foundation's latest innovation in inclusive education. The pavilion also features a range of Kalimat Foundation's merchandise, inspired by its humanitarian mission to support literacy, inclusion, and cultural empowerment. Following the meeting, the Trustees toured the pavilion and engaged with the Foundation's ongoing projects that continue to advance its mission of fostering equitable access to knowledge. Review of recent achievements During the meeting, the Board also reviewed the Foundation's key achievements since the start of the year 2025. Among the highlights was the donation of 400 Arabic-language books to Palestinian children residing at the Emirates Humanitarian City in Abu Dhabi, carried out under the "Pledge a Library" initiative and launched in conjunction with the UAE's Month of Reading. Another milestone was the Foundation's cultural and educational campaign in Morocco, launched as part of Sharjah's Guest of Honour participation at the 30th Rabat International Book Fair. The campaign included the distribution of 600 Arabic-language books to schools and associations, including a special reward to the winners of the Moroccan Reading Network competition. Strategic roadmap for future expansion Looking ahead, the Board approved a strategic roadmap focused on expanding the "Pledge a Library" initiative to supply portable libraries to local charity schools across the UAE, ensuring sustainable funding for projects, adopting enhanced evaluation frameworks, and broadening Kalimat Foundation's regional and international outreach.
Mid East Info
20-03-2025
- General
- Mid East Info
Dubai Judicial Institute launches ‘Our Community Reads' initiative coinciding with National Reading Month and the ‘Year of Community'
Dubai Judicial Institute (DJI) launched the 'Our Community Reads' initiative, reiterating its dedication to fostering legal knowledge in society in line with the UAE's Month of Reading and coinciding with the 'Year of Community'. The initiative underscores DJI's focus on motivating individuals to adopt reading to boost cultural awareness and promote a knowledge-driven society. It further reflects DJI's belief that reading is the cornerstone of intellectual development, innovation, social growth, and cohesion. The 'Our Community Reads' initiative is designed to advance strategic objectives that align with DJI's vision by fostering legal and judicial culture and encouraging reading through specialised books on law and judiciary. Furthermore, the initiative aims to cultivate a culture of continuous learning and establish reading as a habit among legal professionals, members of judiciary authorities, and those interested in law. By providing publications focused on integrity and justice in legal and judicial practice, the initiative seeks to enhance their skills and knowledge while strengthening ethical and legal values. Additionally, the initiative includes a reading competition to promote reading habits and active involvement in cultural activities within the legal community. The competition will be held throughout the year, with four editions organised at the end of every quarter highlighting various national occasions. The first edition of the competition-themed 'The Reading Law' will be conducted at the end of March 2025, coinciding with the national Reading Month and the 'Year of Community.' The winners of each edition will receive a specially curated collection of DJI's publications as prizes. The 'Our Community Reads' initiative signifies DJI's dedication to facilitating access to legal knowledge resources and publications, empowering individuals with a better understanding of their rights and responsibilities. This initiative reflects DJI's role as a leading institution in legal education and training, committed to boosting legal knowledge. By initiating various interactive activities, it reinforces social cohesion in alignment with the objectives of the 'Year of Community' and the UAE's vision to become a global hub for thought, culture, and a benchmark for sustainable human-centred development.
Mid East Info
18-03-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Keolis MHI Hosts its 4th Annual Corporate Iftar Event, Celebrating the Year of Community, Reading Month, Unity and Excellence
Dubai, UAE: Keolis MHI gathered over 650 employees, partners, and stakeholders for a memorable Corporate Iftar event, celebrating the spirit of Ramadan and the UAE's Year of Community. The event emphasised Keolis MHI's commitment to fostering unity, recognizing excellence, and giving back to the community. The evening commenced with a warm welcoming note from Keolis MHI's Managing Director, David Franks, who highlighted the values of togetherness, gratitude, and reflection during the holy month. He also emphasized the significance of the Year of Community, reaffirming the company's dedication to strengthening relationships with employees and partners. 'As we come together during this special time of the year, we celebrate the traditions of Ramadan and the strong sense of unity that defines our organization. This Iftar is a reflection of our commitment to our people, our partners, and the broader community,' said David Franks, Managing Director of Keolis MHI. A key highlight of the evening was the recognition of outstanding individuals and teams. The prestigious Employee of the Year and Outstanding Station of the Year awards were presented, honouring dedication, performance, and commitment to excellence. David added: 'This Iftar is also an opportunity to recognize and appreciate the hard work and dedication of our teams—especially those who go above and beyond every day to serve the community. We honour our Employee of the Year and the Outstanding Station of the Year, whose commitment to excellence is truly inspiring. In celebration of the UAE's Month of Reading, Keolis MHI, with the generous support of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library, gifted esteemed books to all attendees, further encouraging knowledge-sharing and lifelong learning. Franks further expressed his appreciation, stating 'We are deeply grateful to the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library for their generosity in promoting the gift of knowledge during the Month of Reading. Their commitment to education and intellectual enrichment aligns with our values at Keolis MHI, and we are grateful to share this initiative with our employees and partners. Reading is a gateway to continuous learning, and this gesture is a wonderful way to celebrate both Ramadan and the power of knowledge.' Concluding the event, Keolis MHI reaffirm its dedication to the Year of Community and its ongoing CSR initiatives. By fostering inclusivity, recognizing achievements, and giving back, Keolis MHI continues to uphold its mission of creating a positive impact across its operations and beyond.
