Latest news with #NationalLibraryandArchives
Al Etihad
3 days ago
- Business
- Al Etihad
Abu Dhabi Youth Council, National Library and Archives organise Institutional Youth Councils Forum
21 July 2025 18:20 ABU DHAB (ALETIHAD)Abu Dhabi Youth Council and National Library and Archives Youth Council organised the Corporate Youth Councils Forum, under the theme 'Youth Make the Difference'.The forum served as an interactive platform for dialogue, aiming to unify visions and strategic directions among youth councils in Abu Dhabi emirate and strengthen collaboration on amplifying youth impact across the forum began with an opening address delivered by Dr. Hazaa Al Naqbi, Head of the Government Archives Section at the National Library and Archives. He welcomed promising youth leaders. and emphasised their active role in society, as well as the significance of their distinctive and inspiring experiences as a source of inspiration for future generations. Dr. Al Naqbi commended the contributions of youth to construction, growth, and prosperity, in line with the directives of the UAE's wise leadership, and stated that youth are the creators of the present, the pioneers of change, and the pillars of the Al Naqbi encouraged the youth to exchange successful experiences, and build strong bridges between their initiatives and supporting institutions. He thanked everyone involved in organising the forum and all the participants, considering them partners of the National Library and Archives in enriching and empowering knowledge-based communities. He also affirmed the institution's belief in the potential of youth as drivers of Al Mansouri, Chairman of Abu Dhabi Youth Council, also delivered a speech in which he reviewed the National Youth Agenda 2031 launched in 2024. He confirmed that the agenda forms the main foundation for all youth-related initiatives, strategies, and projects in the Mansouri also announced the strategic directions of Abu Dhabi Youth Council for 2025–2027, developed based on the national agenda, the directions of the local entities in Abu Dhabi emirate, and the results of the Abu Dhabi Youth Voice Mansouri affirmed that the Youth Councils Forum, held at the National Library and Archives under the theme Youth Make the Difference, is a milestone event that is considered an extension to the emirate's vision of empowering youth, and enhancing their role as active partners in institutional and community development, "We believe that every young person has a voice, every voice has value, and every initiative leaves a deep and lasting impact.'He pointed out that the wise leadership has instilled in youth the belief that they are the driving force worthy of leading, innovating, and bringing change. He urged participants to propose realistic and implementable steps, affirming that the forum marks a paradigm shift toward practical empowerment because youth, through their ideas, are the driving force to a brighter, more prosperous this, Mohammad Al Bishir, Chairman of the National Library and Archives Youth Council, presented a comprehensive presentation of the council's strategic plan. He highlighted the key initiatives planned for implementation in 2025, aligned with the council's vision to strengthen the role of youth in the sector of archiving and preserving the memory of the Bishir shed light on the council's strategic goals, which focus on knowledge empowerment, innovation in records management, and enhancing national awareness among the youth. He also highlighted the council's unique initiatives, including community initiatives and educational and training programmes aimed at developing youth research and knowledge forum's programme included a leadership dialogue session with the participation of Dr. Hazaa Al Naqbi from the National Library and Archives and Jassim Al Obaidli, Director of Youth Engagement at the Federal Youth Authority. Aisha Al Khulaifi moderated the session emphasised the importance of cooperation and integration, considering them essential for the success of youth councils. It also encouraged youth to pursue knowledge and seriously develop their skills in their respective praised the inspiring and optimistic spirit evident in the speeches delivered by the dialogue session was held with the participation of Abu Dhabi Youth Council and the Youth Councils of the Ministry of Community Development, Emirates Red Crescent, the National Library and Archives, Abu Dhabi Police, the Department of Energy, Nafes, and Abu Dhabi session addressed many inspiring experiences, challenges, and the suitable solutions for them. The key topics discussed included: ways to promote the culture of volunteering among the youth; interactive digital or social platforms that enable youth to engage in active participation; methods to gather and represent the ideas and proposals of youth non-members of councils; collaboration with international institutions or external youth councils; future aspirations; workplace challenges facing young people; and the most prominent youth council initiatives and their role in preserving national forum concluded with a brainstorming session focused on the five main pillars of the National Youth Agenda than 40 members of various youth councils participated in the session, where they discussed real-life challenges, and developed over 15 implementable initiatives and projects, identifying the local entities responsible for execution. The innovative projects represent significant milestones on the roadmap to the desired the close of the forum, Abu Dhabi Youth Council reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening integration among youth councils in the emirate, and to working to translate strategic directions into tangible, real-world initiatives that positively influence the lives of young people. The forum served as a new starting point toward more effective institutional participation, enhancing the presence of youth across various development pathways and their contribution to Abu Dhabi's future. Source: Aletihad - Abu Dhabi
Al Etihad
7 days ago
- Politics
- Al Etihad
Union Pledge Day: Rare photos, records chronicle landmark moments that defined UAE's identity
17 July 2025 22:23 SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)The historic meeting on July 18, 1971, ushered in a new era for what is now known as the United Arab Emirates. Rare photographs, documents, and audio-visual recordings capture that day, demonstrating how the nation's Founding Fathers transformed ideas of unity into a firm commitment to a national such documents is the mission of National Library and Archives (NLA), allowing generations to relive these defining moments and learn from the values, dedication, and vision that have shaped the UAE's past, present, and future. Speaking to Aletihad , Fatima Al Mazrouei, Head of the Historical Archives Department at the NLA, offered an overview of the wealth of information the institution has kept intact from July 18, 1971, and beyond. 'Among the most prominent of these documents are the minutes of the meeting held at the Guest Palace in Dubai; the preliminary drafts of the Federal Constitution; political correspondence between the Rulers; and bilateral agreements between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, Abu Dhabi and Fujairah, Abu Dhabi and Umm Al Quwain, and Abu Dhabi and Ajman,' she said. 'We also hold rare photographs, and audio and video recordings that chronicle the details of this historic meeting.' Telling the StoryBeyond preserving these trails, NLA has interviewed people who lived through that era and compiled their recollections, painting a more vivid picture of the beginnings of the Union, Al Mazrouei said. Since Union Pledge Day was declared in 2024 to mark this turning point in the UAE's journey, NLA has held events to share its archival collection with the public and retell the story to younger generations. 'These include documentary exhibitions featuring rare collections, documents, and photographs, as well as historical scientific seminars that shed light on the role of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and his fellow Founding Fathers [in establishing the Union],' Al Mazrouei said. NLA also partners with media and cultural institutions to produce and broadcast short documentaries to engage the youth. Outside these events, the institution has made sure all these materials remain accessible to the public through its 'Memory of the Nation' platform, Al Mazrouei institution has also published four key books featuring interviews with prominent citizens who witnessed the Union's formation, highlighting its milestones and the role of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan in uniting the Emirates. Engaging the Youth Recognising that education is key to preserving heritage, NLA has made youth engagement a top priority. 'We have launched school visit programmes, interactive workshops, and research competitions to help students understand the Constitution and the history of the Union,' Al Mazrouei such as the Young Historian Award have served as platforms for students to connect with the nation's past in meaningful ways. 'These programmes run year-round and align with national events, aiming to instil a sense of pride and awareness in the younger generation.'The archives have also been digitised and can now be accessed online. 'This year, a set of new documents related to pre-Union deliberations was digitised and made available through the Arabian Gulf Digital Archives (AGDA) platform,' said Al Union Pledge Day, those who wish to relive the historic meeting of the country's Founding Fathers can visit NLA's Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Hall, where key documents are on display. 'On this occasion, NLA aims to reinforce the message of national unity, deepen the sense of belonging and gratitude to the founding generation, and emphasise that the Union was not a fleeting moment, but a civilisational project built on sincerity, vision, and solidarity-one that continues to thrive thanks to the UAE's wise leadership and loyal citizens,' Al Mazrouei said.
Middle East
29-06-2025
- Politics
- Middle East
OPEN// Egypt keen to advance cultural diplomacy
CAIRO, June 29 (MENA) - Minister of Foreign Affairs, Emigration and Egyptian Expatriates Badr Abdelatty on Sunday lauded the close cooperation with the Ministry of Culture. During his meeting with Minister of Culture Ahmed Fouad Henno, Abdelatty emphasized commitment to strengthening the cultural dimension within diplomatic work as a fundamental pillar of Egypt's foreign policy. He also commended the pivotal role played by the National Library and Archives in preserving the nation's heritage and history. Abdelatty expressed his aspiration to deepen cooperation with the National Library and Archives, particularly in restoring international treaties and documents signed by Egypt with other countries, as well as in preserving valuable books, references, and historical maps held by the foreign ministry. He further welcomed collaboration on projects related to the digitization of books and archival records. Discussions also addressed ways to boost the promotion of diverse cultural activities abroad through Egyptian embassies and consulates and to increase Egypt's participation in international cultural events to elevate its global standing and showcase the unique richness of Egyptian civilization. (MENA) M S H/R E E
Al Etihad
25-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Al Etihad
National Library and Archives spotlights promising young talent at 2025 UAE School Theatre Festival
26 June 2025 01:14 SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI) The National Library and Archives (NLA) on Tuesday hosted the 2025 UAE School Theatre Festival awards ceremony at its Abu Dhabi headquarters. Held under the theme "My Nation, the UAE… Eternal Glory," and in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, the fourth edition of the "Gateway to Talent" initiative honoured outstanding student performances, with the participation of around 7,500 students from across the ceremony opened with a speech by Aisha Al Zaabi, Head of the Educational Programmes Section at the National Library and Archives, who affirmed the institution's role in moulding young praised school theatre as a powerful tool for promoting education and national identity, highlighting its ability to spark creativity, boost confidence, and advance Emirati hailed the winning performances as inspiring models for the ceremony concluded with the awards ceremony for the place went to Al Murooj Kindergarten in Sharjah and Nad Al Hamar Kindergarten in place went to Omair Bin Abi Waqqas School in Sharjah, and third place went to Al Thameed School in Abu Dhabi, first place went to Al Sila School and Al Nahda place went to Al Jeel Kindergarten and Al Shatha Kindergarten, and third place went to Al Eathaar Kindergarten and Um Ghafa the first cycle, first place went to Mezyad School in Al Ain and Halima Al Saadia School in Abu place went to Al Ezza School in Abu Dhabi and Mohammed Bin Khalid School in Al place went to Madinat Zayed School in Al Dhafra and Ahmed bin Zayed School in Al students from Al Bidaya Kindergarten, Al Fayhaa'a Kindergarten in Abu Dhabi and Al Yahar Kindergarten in Al Ain were claiming honours were first-cycle students from Al Taweelah School in Abu Dhabi, Al Dhannah, and Al Marfa Schools in Al Dhafra. On the sidelines of the School Theatre Festival, Dr. Hosnia Al Ali, Education Adviser at the National Library and Archives, spoke to Aletihad about the purpose and evolving role of the awards. "This initiative aims to discover and nurture talents in the early stages of education - specifically from kindergarten to third grade," she explained."Theatre is considered the mother of all arts. Through theatrical activities, we work on enhancing students' speaking abilities, boosting their self-confidence, strengthening communication and Arabic language skills, and developing expressive movement."Beyond artistic skills, the initiative carries a deeper educational mission by entrenching Emirati history, culture, national identity and social values into student performances."Through teamwork and healthy competition, students learn how to interact positively and respectfully with one another," she initiative also reflects the broader objectives of the Year of Community by encouraging collaboration and strengthening student-family on the impact of visual and performing arts in shaping national identity, Dr. Al Ali stressed the importance of content."The theatrical works that students work on vary, including historical literary texts, a collection of poems and topics related to Emirati heritage and legacy," she are not just performances - they are educational tools."Through theatrical works, students learn about Emirati heritage and the history of their country, which is represented in many texts," she noted."National identity is represented by good citizenship," she continued."These theatrical works shed light on Emirati affairs and bring them into the classroom."Dr. Al Ali said 7,500 UAE school students participated in the selection process was rigorous, with the students judged on the criteria of: the theatrical theme, performance, delivery, language, set, costumes, lighting, plot, student integration, and how well the work aligns with national identity and community-related noted the increasing sophistication of submissions: "The criteria were not easy, and choosing the winners was not easy, especially because there has been a great deal of maturity in the theatrical scene in schools nationwide."What made the initiative especially meaningful was the focus on the youngest learners, she said."We decided to begin this portal with the younger generation, who might be young, but are promising and have impressive things to offer in theatrical work."Explaining the NLA's broader, long-term role and partnership with the Ministry of Education, she said, "We always support schools and promote education outside of the classroom and beyond the school curriculum. This is achieved through publications, books, information, lectures, reading workshops, games, meetings and field visits."We complement the Ministry of Education in a key and vital way. Together, we serve the Emirati community, especially students."We have reliable publications, archival documents and promising national talent who can deliver content in an age-appropriate way, using games, apps, and artificial intelligence."Dr. Al Ali confirmed that their programmes will support the UAE's AI curriculum rollout."We are now working intensively to ensure the NLA's programmes support this curriculum and are presented in attractive and innovative ways, aligned with academic levels."The programme will return later, with AI technologies integrated into future editions," she said. She added that the students' creative works will be compiled in the State Archives.
Al Etihad
20-06-2025
- Politics
- Al Etihad
UAE chairs Arab Regional Branch of International Council on Archives
20 June 2025 14:39 ABU DHABI (WAM)Dr. Abdulla Majid Al Ali, Director-General of the National Library and Archives, has been elected as President of the Arab Regional Branch of the International Council on Archives (ARBICA), representing the United Arab election serves as a testament to the National Library and Archives' achievements at local, Arab and international levels. It also underscores the institution's accelerated progress in archiving and documentation, reaffirming its position as a leading entity in preserving national memory and safeguarding documentary heritage. These efforts have further enhanced its prominent standing in the Arab cultural and archival landscape. On this occasion, Dr. Al Ali expressed his honour at the trust placed in him. He affirmed that the National Library and Archives, an active member of the International Council on Archives since 1975, takes great pride in standing at the forefront of Arab archival institutions receiving international recognition.
