Latest news with #SharjahBookAuthority
Sharjah 24
3 days ago
- Science
- Sharjah 24
Issue 333 of Al Rafid Magazine released
Honoring Sharjah's Cultural Leadership A major highlight of this issue is the honoring of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, who received the "Arab Cultural Merit Medal" from ALECSO during a ceremony in Tunisia. The award recognizes His Highness's five decades of contributions to Arab and Islamic culture, including initiatives like the "Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Language," the establishment of cultural centers in Europe and Africa, and his ongoing support for theatrical and artistic institutions. Sharjah-Oman cultural ties Under the theme "A Window to Reflect on a Shared Historical Heritage," the issue also features the participation of His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, at the opening of the "Masterpieces of Islamic Arts" exhibition at the National Museum of Oman. This event reflects the deep historical relationship between the UAE and Oman. Innovation and excellence in governance The issue highlights His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed's launch of the "Institutional Excellence Award," which aims to foster innovation across both public and private sectors. It also covers his recognition of leading initiatives in governance and smart services. Sheikha Bodour's role in cultural advancement Special focus is given to the efforts of Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi , Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority, in advancing the emirate's cultural influence. The issue features: Her inauguration of the fourth International Distributors Conference , attended by 750 professionals from 94 countries Her patronage of the "Chapters of Islamic Art" exhibition Her launch of the "Africa and the Arabian Peninsula" symposium in partnership with global organisations Scientific and academic achievements The issue also showcases Sharjah's expanding contributions to science and education, including: The launch of the Al Qasimi Astronomical Observatory , a new hub for space research The University of Sharjah's collaborations with the Diplomatic Academy and Ministry of Climate Change American University of Sharjah students winning international architectural awards The Spring Life Skills Forum , which supports youth creativity and innovation Sharjah: A global cultural vision Through its diverse content, Al Rafid Issue 333 reaffirms Sharjah's vision as a hub for creativity, committed to preserving cultural heritage while embracing modernity. It reflects the lasting influence of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah in shaping the future of Arab culture and fostering global cultural dialogue.
CairoScene
24-05-2025
- General
- CairoScene
Sharjah Book Authority Funds $6M Effort to Digitise UNESCO's Archives
The initiative will preserve nearly 80 years of international cultural and diplomatic history. May 24, 2025 The Sharjah Book Authority has officially committed USD 6 million to a five-year global preservation initiative that will see UNESCO's archives digitised for the first time. Aiming to protect and democratise access to nearly eight decades of international cultural, educational and diplomatic records, the project will convert 2.5 million pages of historical documents, 165,000 rare photographs, and thousands of hours of audio and video recordings into open-access digital formats. Currently, only 5% of UNESCO's extensive archive has been digitised—leaving the remaining 95% vulnerable to time, fragility, and limited accessibility. Launched at a formal signing ceremony held at UNESCO headquarters in Paris, the project was attended by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. During his visit, Sheikh Dr. Sultan toured the archive, reviewing deteriorating documents that underscore the urgency of the preservation effort. The digitisation initiative will protect key records that reflect UNESCO's global mission—from peace treaties and summit documentation to educational initiatives and cultural heritage strategies. The resulting archive will provide a vital resource for scholars, educators, students, and institutions worldwide, offering unprecedented access to the historical backbone of multilateral collaboration.
Korea Herald
23-05-2025
- General
- Korea Herald
UNESCO honours Sharjah Ruler for Arabic historical dictionary
PARIS, May 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, a Supreme Council Member and the Ruler of Sharjah, was awarded a distinguished UNESCO honour upon the completion of the Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Language. At the official ceremony held at UNESCO's headquarters in Paris, themed "Arabic Language: A Bridge Between Heritage and Knowledge", Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, wife of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah and chairperson of the Supreme Council for Family Affairs (SCFA), was present, along with Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA). Upon his arrival at UNESCO headquarters, His Highness was received and warmly welcomed by Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of UNESCO; Fahd Saeed Al Raqbani, UAE Ambassador to France; Abdullah bin Mohammed Al Owais, Chairman of Sharjah's Department of Culture; Jamal Al-Turaifi, President of Al Qasimia University; Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of the Sharjah Book Authority; Ali Al-Haj Al Ali, UAE Permanent Delegate to UNESCO; and Mohamed Hassan Khalaf, Director General of the Sharjah Broadcasting Authority. His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah delivered a speech during the ceremony, stating, "It is my honour to stand among you today in this esteemed cultural forum at UNESCO, whose noble mission we revere and whose fruitful partnership we cherish. Together, we commemorate a groundbreaking scholarly and cultural milestone, the Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Language. This occasion is further enriched by its coincidence with the World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development, a day designated by UNESCO to promote mutual understanding and respect among cultures, reinforcing our collective humanity. "Language, in all its forms, undeniably serves as the main repository of culture and the most authentic reflection of a community's identity. In celebrating the Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Language today, we honour a vital aspect of our rich human diversity, represented by the Arabic language, which carries a deep civilisational heritage and has had a significant scientific and humanistic impact." His Highness subsequently emphasised the contributions of the partner institutions that played a role in the creation of the dictionary. His Highness emphasised that all languages possess an equal right to exist and evolve, stating, "When we restore to Arabic its rightful history and highlight the aspects of its development, we simultaneously affirm to the world that every language is entitled to existence, progress and celebration, and that cultural justice demands that humanity not be reduced to a single tongue, nor the civilisations of peoples confined to one model. Just as biodiversity ensures the continuity of life, cultural and linguistic diversity secures the ongoing evolution and revitalisation of human creativity." He then conveyed his sincere appreciation to UNESCO for recognising the Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Language and for the collaborative cultural initiatives between Sharjah and the organisation: He wrapped up with a call for unity: "Let us move forward together, dear friends, hand in hand, to enhance our cultural dialogue, to protect our common human heritage, and to guarantee that every culture's voice is acknowledged, every language valued, and every people stay true to their genuine identity." At the ceremony, Audrey Azoulay, the Director-General of UNESCO, presented a speech to welcome His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah. She expressed her pleasure regarding the visit of the Sharjah delegation to Paris, acknowledging the emirate as a worldwide centre of knowledge and culture. Azoulay emphasised Sharjah's significant investments in diverse areas that align with UNESCO's mission, pointing out its achievement of multiple international cultural awards. Azoulay praised the foresight of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, which has placed culture and knowledge at the heart of Sharjah's policies. She recognised the emirate's arrangements for various cultural events, festivals, and exhibitions that span multiple areas of culture, arts, and history. She acknowledged Sharjah's initiative in signing an agreement to digitise UNESCO's archives, marking a significant step towards preserving the organisation's vast collection of books and documents, some of which date back over 80 years. This initiative guarantees the protection of precious historical documents that detail various events, agreements, and initiatives. Azoulay conveyed her appreciation for the successful completion of the Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Language, a significant accomplishment achieved under the guidance of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah. Created by a multitude of researchers and editors from 20 linguistic institutions throughout the Arab world, this dictionary has earned recognition from the Guinness World Records as the largest historical dictionary. At the conclusion of the ceremony, His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah graciously signed a copy of the Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Language and presented it as a gift to UNESCO.
Gulf Today
22-05-2025
- General
- Gulf Today
UNESCO honours Sheikh Sultan for Arabic historical dictionary
His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, a Supreme Council Member and the Ruler of Sharjah, was awarded a distinguished UNESCO honour upon the completion of the Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Language. At the official ceremony held at UNESCO's headquarters in Paris, themed "Arabic Language: A Bridge Between Heritage and Knowledge,' Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher Bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, wife of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah and Chairperson of the Supreme Council for Family Affairs (SCFA), was present, along with Sheikha Bodour Bint Sultan Al Qasimi, chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA). Upon his arrival at UNESCO headquarters, Sheikh Sultan was received and warmly welcomed by Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of UNESCO; Fahd Saeed Al Raqbani, UAE Ambassador to France; Abdullah Bin Mohammed Al Owais, Chairman of Sharjah's Department of Culture; Jamal Al Turaifi, President of Al Qasimia University; Ahmed Bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of the Sharjah Book Authority; Ali Al-Haj Al Ali, UAE Permanent Delegate to UNESCO; and Mohamed Hassan Khalaf, Director General of the Sharjah Broadcasting Authority. Sheikh Sultan delivered a speech during the ceremony, stating, "It is my honour to stand among you today in this esteemed cultural forum at UNESCO, whose noble mission we revere and whose fruitful partnership we cherish. Together, we commemorate a groundbreaking scholarly and cultural milestone-the Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Language." "This occasion is further enriched by its coincidence with the World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development, a day designated by UNESCO to promote mutual understanding and respect among cultures, reinforcing our collective humanity." Sheikh Sultan receives Certificate of Appreciation from Audrey Azoulay at UNESCO's headquarters in Paris. WAM "Language, in all its forms, undeniably serves as the main repository of culture and the most authentic reflection of a community's identity. In celebrating the Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Language today, we honour a vital aspect of our rich human diversity, represented by the Arabic language, which carries a deep civilisational heritage and has had a significant scientific and humanistic impact.' Sheikh Sultan subsequently emphasised the contributions of the partner institutions that played a role in the creation of the dictionary, stating, "Sharjah, through its Arabic Language Academy and in collaboration with the Union of Arab Scientific and Language Academies in Cairo, along with linguistic academies, institutes, and institutions throughout the Arab world, succeeded in the completion of this dictionary in one hundred and twenty-seven volumes, as you see before you both in print and online.' "I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the numerous researchers and proofreaders from diverse Arab nations whose remarkable dedication has made this accomplishment achievable." "For centuries, Arabic has been a dynamic and enduring language, embodying the heritage of an entire civilisation and encompassing a multitude of fields of knowledge. It serves as the language of the Holy Qur'an, the means of communication for philosophers and scientists, and the artistic means for poets and intellectuals. Even now, it persists in accomplishing its mission throughout the domains of knowledge. But unlike other languages, no academic work has yet been done to show how its lexicon and meanings have changed over time. Thus, the Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Language originated as a vision, evolved into a project, and has now come to fruition-thanks to the collaboration of efforts, the amalgamation of expertise, and a steadfast dedication." Sheikh Sultan emphasised that all languages possess an equal right to exist and evolve, stating, "When we restore to Arabic its rightful history and highlight the aspects of its development, we simultaneously affirm to the world that every language is entitled to existence, progress and celebration, and that cultural justice demands that humanity not be reduced to a single tongue, nor the civilisations of peoples confined to one model.' "Just as biodiversity ensures the continuity of life, cultural and linguistic diversity secures the ongoing evolution and revitalisation of human creativity.' He then conveyed his sincere appreciation to UNESCO for recognising the Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Language and for the collaborative cultural initiatives between Sharjah and the organisation. "Our celebration of this work within UNESCO's premises sends a clear message that culture transcends borders and that Arab endeavours, undertaken with sincerity and a collective spirit, receive global acknowledgement and acceptance. From this podium, I express my heartfelt gratitude to UNESCO and its member states for their strong belief in the significance of Arabic and for their collaborative efforts in various initiatives-most notably, the Sharjah-UNESCO Arab Culture Award, which represents our cultural alignment with this esteemed organisation and its members." Sheikha Jawaher and Sheikha Bodour at UNESCO's headquarters in Paris. WAM He wrapped up with a call for unity, stating, "Let us move forward together, dear friends, hand in hand, to enhance our cultural dialogue, to protect our common human heritage, and to guarantee that every culture's voice is acknowledged, every language valued, and every people stay true to their genuine identity.' At the ceremony, Audrey Azoulay, the Director-General of UNESCO, presented a speech to welcome His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah. She expressed her pleasure regarding the visit of the Sharjah delegation to Paris, acknowledging the emirate as a worldwide centre of knowledge and culture. Azoulay emphasised Sharjah's significant investments in diverse areas that align with UNESCO's mission, pointing out its achievement of multiple international cultural awards, including UNESCO's recognition of Sharjah as a "World Book Capital" in 2019. This acknowledgement highlights Sharjah's eternal commitment to literature, cultural heritage, the spread of knowledge, and cultural diversity. Azoulay praised the foresight of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, which has placed culture and knowledge at the heart of Sharjah's policies. She recognised the emirate's arrangements for various cultural events, festivals, and exhibitions that span multiple areas of culture, arts, and history. These initiatives, such as the UNESCO-Sharjah Award for Arab Culture, promote intercultural dialogue and highlight the lasting collaboration between Sharjah and UNESCO that has continued for over 25 years. She acknowledged Sharjah's initiative in signing an agreement to digitise UNESCO's archives, marking a significant step towards preserving the organisation's vast collection of books and documents, some of which date back over 80 years. This initiative guarantees the protection of precious historical documents that detail various events, agreements, and initiatives. Azoulay conveyed her appreciation for the successful completion of the Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Language, a significant accomplishment achieved under the guidance of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah. Created by a multitude of researchers and editors from 20 linguistic institutions throughout the Arab world, this dictionary has earned recognition from the Guinness World Records as the largest historical dictionary, consisting of 127 volumes. It has been officially included in UNESCO's library, offering educators, researchers, students, and Arabic language enthusiasts a thorough resource. She highlighted the richness and value of the Arabic language, showcasing its adaptability over time and its importance to millions around the globe. Azoulay highlighted her investigation of the term "peace", tracing it back to the triliteral root of the Arabic word mase, represented by the letters (س-ل-م), and noting its semantic similarities in different languages. At the conclusion of the ceremony, Sheikh Sultan signed a copy of the Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Language and presented it as a gift to UNESCO. WAM
Globe and Mail
22-05-2025
- Politics
- Globe and Mail
Sharjah Ruler signs $6M agreement to digitise UNESCO global archive
Issued by the Sharjah Government Media Bureau PARIS , May 22, 2025 /CNW/ -- His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah , witnessed the signing of an agreement to digitise UNESCO's global archive with a $6 million grant from the Sharjah Book Authority. The signing took place Wednesday morning at the UNESCO headquarters in Paris , in the presence of his wife, Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi , Chairperson of the Supreme Council for Family Affairs, and Audrey Azoulay , Director-General of UNESCO. Agreement Signed Officially The agreement was signed by Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi , Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), and Jennifer Linkins , Assistant Director-General for Administration and Management at UNESCO. The project, based on directives from the Ruler of Sharjah , aims to preserve global heritage, protect important documents, and ensure digital accessibility. It will span five years and include the digitisation of books, manuscripts, audio recordings, documentaries, and various archival materials. Archive Tour Conducted His Highness conducted a tour of the UNESCO Library and Archive, examining significant collections including global documents, books, and manuscripts. He was also informed about the essential functions of the library in supporting the organisation's objectives and utilising its cultural. Preservation Importance Highlighted During the visit, His Highness viewed a number of aging historical documents, some of which had been impacted by deteriorating conditions. This emphasised the importance of the digitisation agreement. A Comprehensive Historical Archive The UNESCO archive stands as one of the largest and most important institutional archives globally, which includes nearly 80 years of historical records. The collection features more than 2.5 million pages of documents, 165,000 rare photographs, and thousands of hours of audio and video recordings, These materials capture pivotal moments in global cultural and educational history. Digitisation Urgently Needed Only 5% of the archive has been digitised, highlighting the significant value it holds, yet constrained by limited resources and various logistical and technical challenges. This underscores the critical necessity for assistance to expedite comprehensive digital transformation and protect the archive. Sharjah's Strategic Initiative Approximately 95% of the archive remains undigitised, making Sharjah's initiative a significant move towards converting this global legacy into accessible digital content for researchers, academic institutions, and cultural communities around the world. Sharjah's Vision Confirmed Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi remarked, "This grant exemplifies Sharjah's commitment to preserving human heritage and protecting the world's memory, highlighting knowledge as a fundamental element of sustainable human development. UNESCO's global archive stands as a vital centre for the preservation of heritage, intellect, education, and culture, emphasising that its preserving is a shared moral responsibility." Knowledge Access Promoted Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi stated, " Sharjah has always held the belief that access to knowledge should be fair and inclusive, and that protecting human memory is vital for fostering creativity and progress. With this initiative, we are creating a new avenue for international collaboration aimed at building a future that respects the past while providing future generations the chance to learn from history and draw inspiration from its lessons." Ongoing Cultural Leadership This agreement demonstrates Sharjah's ongoing leadership, under the direction of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah , in fostering knowledge and humanitarian initiatives. It reinforces the emirate's position as a global hub for cultural preservation, heritage protection, and the promotion of Arab representation in international intellectual and scientific organisations. SOURCE Sharjah Government Media Bureau
