Latest news with #SharjahGovernmentMediaBureau
Sharjah 24
7 hours ago
- Business
- Sharjah 24
SGCA continues to nurture new generation of communication leaders
Applications for the current edition are open until 24 July 2025, and eligible participants include government entities, the private sector, international organisations, and individuals. Apply now at: With dedicated categories targeting youth, university students, and artificial intelligence skills, the Award is helping to position the UAE as a regional and global leader in modern government communication. Organised by the Sharjah Government Media Bureau (SGMB), SGCA recognises that communication is no longer a soft skill as it is one of the top five essential capabilities in today's leadership and management landscape, especially in the age of digital transformation. A study by the YTH Initiative found that youth-focused communication programmes can boost self-leadership and confidence by more than 45%. SGCA builds on this insight through the 'Best Youth Initiative in Government Communication', a category that offers young minds the opportunity to take on leadership roles and develop their strategic and social impact skills. Trust and transparency: Spotlight on spokespersons The 'Best Official Spokesperson' category continues to encourage institutional trust and human-centred communication. According to the 2024 Edelman Trust Barometer, 63% of people are more likely to trust spokespersons who are transparent and responsive, reaffirming the critical role of trusted voices in public engagement. Digital-first leadership The Award's 'Best Changemakers in Digital Content' category speaks directly to the reality of how communication is consumed today. A Hubspot report shows that 82% of internet users interact daily with short-form video content, highlighting the growing demand for creative, video-savvy leaders who can translate public messages into visual storytelling that resonates with online audiences. Merging theory with practice To bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world communication, SGCA introduced the 'Best Research in Communication Sciences' category. A University of Michigan study revealed that organisations applying scientific research in their communication strategies saw 71% higher campaign success rates, a compelling argument for policy guided by data, not guesswork. Investing in tomorrow's talent With its 'Universities Challenge' category, hosted in collaboration with United Arab Emirates University, SGCA invites students to compete by solving real-life communication challenges. According to the World Economic Forum, communication and critical thinking are among the most in-demand skills for the leaders of 2030, making this an investment in the UAE's future workforce. Communication powered by AI In recognition of emerging technologies, the Award's 'Artificial Intelligence Skills Camp' (AISC) category aims to equip young leaders with next-generation tools. A report by edX (2023) found that 92% of global executives plan to upskill in AI within the next two years, highlighting the need to integrate tech fluency into the DNA of communication leadership. A platform for national excellence With knowledge-based programming and strong institutional partnerships, SGCA continues to serve as a national platform for excellence, nurturing talent, rewarding innovation, and advancing the UAE's global communication leadership.
Zawya
9 hours ago
- Business
- Zawya
SGCA 2025 continues to nurture a new generation of future communication leaders
Sharjah Government Communication Award positions creative competition as a platform to build tomorrow's leaders in government communication The Award sets a pioneering model in preparing a new wave of leadership in the field Communication is now among the top five essential skills in management and business Youth-focused communication programmes increase leadership and self-confidence levels by over 45% 63% of people trust official spokespersons who exhibit transparency and quick response 82% of internet users engage daily with short-form video content Applications are open until 24 July 2025 via: Sharjah, In its 12th edition, the Sharjah Government Communication Award (SGCA) is reinforcing its mission to build a new generation of government communication leaders, equipped, agile, and ready to navigate a fast-changing world. Applications for the current edition are open until 24 July 2025, and eligible participants include government entities, the private sector, international organisations, and individuals. Apply now at: With dedicated categories targeting youth, university students, and artificial intelligence skills, the Award is helping to position the UAE as a regional and global leader in modern government communication. Organised by the Sharjah Government Media Bureau (SGMB), SGCA recognises that communication is no longer a soft skill as it is one of the top five essential capabilities in today's leadership and management landscape, especially in the age of digital transformation. A study by the YTH Initiative found that youth-focused communication programmes can boost self-leadership and confidence by more than 45%. SGCA builds on this insight through the ' Best Youth Initiative in Government Communication', a category that offers young minds the opportunity to take on leadership roles and develop their strategic and social impact skills. Trust and transparency: Spotlight on spokespersons The ' Best Official Spokesperson' category continues to encourage institutional trust and human-centred communication. According to the 2024 Edelman Trust Barometer, 63% of people are more likely to trust spokespersons who are transparent and responsive, reaffirming the critical role of trusted voices in public engagement. Digital-first leadership The Award's ' Best Changemakers in Digital Content' category speaks directly to the reality of how communication is consumed today. A Hubspot report shows that 82% of internet users interact daily with short-form video content, highlighting the growing demand for creative, video-savvy leaders who can translate public messages into visual storytelling that resonates with online audiences. Merging theory with practice To bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world communication, SGCA introduced the ' Best Research in Communication Sciences' category. A University of Michigan study revealed that organisations applying scientific research in their communication strategies saw 71% higher campaign success rates, a compelling argument for policy guided by data, not guesswork. Investing in tomorrow's talent With its ' Universities Challenge' category, hosted in collaboration with United Arab Emirates University, SGCA invites students to compete by solving real-life communication challenges. According to the World Economic Forum, communication and critical thinking are among the most in-demand skills for the leaders of 2030, making this an investment in the UAE's future workforce. Communication powered by AI In recognition of emerging technologies, the Award's ' Artificial Intelligence Skills Camp' (AISC) category aims to equip young leaders with next-generation tools. A report by edX (2023) found that 92% of global executives plan to upskill in AI within the next two years, highlighting the need to integrate tech fluency into the DNA of communication leadership. A platform for national excellence With knowledge-based programming and strong institutional partnerships, SGCA continues to serve as a national platform for excellence, nurturing talent, rewarding innovation, and advancing the UAE's global communication leadership.
Gulf Today
3 days ago
- Politics
- Gulf Today
14th IGCF to commence on September 10 in Sharjah
The Sharjah Government Media Bureau (SGMB) will host the 14th edition of the International Government Communication Forum (IGCF) on 10-11 September at Expo Centre Sharjah under the theme 'Communication for Quality of Life.' This annual event serves as a global intellectual platform to discuss the future of government communication and highlight its critical roles in addressing global challenges. It will bring together distinguished leaders, experts, and officials from around the world. The upcoming edition will focus on five main pillars, exploring food security, education, public health, environmental transformation, and the green economy as essential foundations for enhancing quality of life. Tariq Saeed Allay, Director General of the SGMB, emphasised the forum's commitment to selecting topics based on a comprehensive developmental vision that places people at the centre of communication policies. He noted that 'quality of life is a collective responsibility that demands smart, effective communication tools to raise awareness and support decision-making.' He added that the forum, which has become one of the most important international platforms for discussing communication issues, seeks in its latest edition to exchange ideas and proposals that lead to practical programmes that direct collective action toward inclusive and equitable development goals. This aligns with Sharjah's ongoing efforts to embed quality of life within its government communication initiatives as the main driver of achievement and success. Allay also pointed out that the forum continues, in its 14th edition, to attract leading thinkers, researchers, and practitioners from various parts of the world. He highlighted that the diversity of expertise, specialisations, and perspectives creates a rich dialogue and gives the forum both its human and professional dimensions. The upcoming edition will explore the role of government communication in driving positive change by enhancing awareness of sustainable food practices, encouraging innovation in agriculture, and supporting communities in confronting environmental and social crises. It will also examine the impact of education as a long-term communication tool that builds generations capable of understanding and adapting to change, equipping them with skills to develop realistic solutions to the challenges impacting their food security, health, and environment. IGCF 2025 will highlight how media and government messages shape individual behaviours, motivating people and institutions to adopt more conscious and responsible lifestyles. It will also discuss opportunities within the green economy to create new jobs and promote environmental justice, alongside the role of communication in building partnerships that strengthen trust between governments and societies. The 13th International Government Communication Forum (IGCF 2024) hosted an important initiative on its opening day aimed at shaping the leaders of tomorrow. Resulting from a strategic partnership between the UK-based Strawberry Fields, a leader in analytical tools and growth strategies, and the Sharjah Private Education Authority, the full-day training programme titled 'New Generation Skills for Kids: Integrating System Thinking & Technology' was designed to equip children with essential communication and technological skills, preparing them to navigate an increasingly complex digital world. The programme included interactive lectures, group discussions, and hands-on activities, allowing the participants to express their ideas creatively through storytelling and collaboration. The workshop focused on children and adolescents aged 8 to 15, offering intensive workshops to help them navigate the rapid advancements in technology and communication. Led by John Rainford, business coach, future technologist, and CEO of Strawberry Fields, the course introduced concepts such as integrating logical thinking with technology, using mind-mapping techniques, and enhancing critical and creative thinking skills. "We are discussing the future of technology within systems – whether it's a school system, a planetary system, or an ecological system. Understanding these systems is crucial to finding effective solutions to problems,' said Rainford. "Our mission is to foster better communication and equip children with the tools to use technology in meaningful ways.' Rainford emphasised the importance of integrating systems thinking into education from an early age, believing it would improve problem-solving abilities, revolutionise education, and positively impact children's health and well-being. "Children need to understand their own wellbeing and health to become more ecologically and environmentally conscious. This holistic approach is what we envision for the future generation,' he added.
Sharjah 24
04-07-2025
- General
- Sharjah 24
SGCA 2025 seeks campaigns driving social impact
These two categories underscore SGCA's commitment to celebrating academic rigour, exceptional public engagement, and innovative leadership within the vital field of government communication. They recognise not only the ideas that advance the discipline but also the authentic voices that build stronger connections between institutions and the communities they serve. The submission deadline is July 24, 2025, and entries can be submitted via the official SGCA portal. Now in its 12th edition, the Sharjah Government Communication Award (SGCA) has established itself as a global benchmark for excellence in this field, having attracted over 3,800 submissions from 44 countries in 2024. The winners will be announced on the sidelines of the International Government Communication Forum (IGCF), which will be held in September 2025 at Expo Centre Sharjah. Positive behaviours, shared values Her Excellency Alia Bu Ghanem Al Suwaidi, Director of the Sharjah Government Media Bureau, affirms the Sharjah Government Communication Award's dedication to cementing the role of purposeful communication in serving society and preserving identity. She stated that the categories of 'Best Communication Practice in Supporting Social Responsibility' and 'Best Campaigns Promoting Cultural Identity and the Arabic Language' embody the award's commitment to harnessing responsible government communication that places people at the heart of its message, strengthens their bond with their mother tongue and culture, and drives initiatives that positively impact social issues and values. Al Suwaidi also highlighted Sharjah's keen efforts to advance the presence of the Arabic language across media and communication spaces and government communication strategies, reinforcing its role in shaping an impactful official discourse that reflects our unique identity while engaging the world in our own language. Best communication practice in supporting social responsibility The 'Best Communication Practice in Supporting Social Responsibility' category honours government agencies, private entities, and international organisations that have initiated communication campaigns with a clear and measurable impact on social well-being. Eligible campaigns should demonstrate an integrated communication strategy rooted in ethical practices, effective community engagement, and innovative outreach methods. Submissions will be evaluated on their long-term impact, ability to build partnerships, and success in promoting social awareness and change. The evaluation process includes 10 weighted criteria, ranging from innovation and use of modern communication tools to tangible social outcomes and ethical alignment. Jury members will assess the campaign's ability to measure and sustain its impact through collaboration and documented success. Best campaign promoting cultural identity and the Arabic Language As globalisation poses challenges to linguistic and cultural preservation, SGCA seeks to reward campaigns that reinforce the central role of the Arabic language in shaping national identity and collective heritage. The 'Best Campaign Promoting Cultural Identity and the Arabic Language' category is open to public and private sector initiatives that have creatively and effectively promoted Arab identity, values, and linguistic pride; especially among younger generations. The campaigns should use compelling storytelling, modern technology, and culturally resonant messaging to engage the public and spark meaningful conversations around Arab identity. The jury will evaluate entries based on seven key components, including content quality, impact on the target audience, innovation, and documentation of results. Submissions must show how the initiative tackled real challenges around cultural dilution and inspired communities to embrace and celebrate the Arabic language as a pillar of heritage and unity. Submission process and deadline SGCA welcomes entries from across the globe, provided the campaigns were launched or significantly updated within the past two years. Submissions must include a 1,000-word description along with supporting documentation such as photos, statistics, reports, or videos. Each file should also contain a 250-word executive summary outlining the campaign's key objectives, tools, target audience, and measurable outcomes.
Gulf Today
01-07-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
Sharjah award seeks submissions of impactful contents
The Sharjah Government Communication Award (SGCA), a global annual initiative organised by the Sharjah Government Media Bureau (SGMB), continues to accept submissions for its 12th edition, with winners to be announced in September 2025. Recognising the power of effective messaging and content that has the ability to positively impact the world, this year's award programme seeks to identify and honour outstanding communication initiatives and digital content creators whose work informs, uplifts, and transforms societies globally. Applications are open until 24 July, 2025 at The award invites participants to reflect on the evolving nature of communication and its power to shape public discourse, influence perception, and contribute to societal progress. While all 23 categories across five key sectors celebrate innovation in communication, two categories in particular showcase how media and digital content are driving meaningful change: 'Best Communication and Media Content' and 'Best Changemakers in Digital Content'. The SGCA goes beyond traditional metrics such as media reach or digital virality, amplifying the power of content creation in all its evolving forms. The awards honour creators, institutions, and narratives that are redefining media across platforms, raising public awareness, and fostering a culture of responsible, impactful communication in today's digital age. The Best Communication and Media Content category is open to government entities, private institutions, and NGOs worldwide. It commends strategically conceived communication projects with clear objectives and measurable outcomes. Eligible entries will be considered through a broad range of formats, including comprehensive public campaigns, documentary productions, podcast series, digital platforms, and influential broadcast programming; to name a few. Submissions must exhibit excellence in production quality and creativity, but most importantly they must demonstrate strategic and well planned communication. Applicants are also required to provide evidence of measurable positive impact, such as enhanced public awareness, documented behavioural shifts, or contributions to policy development addressing societal challenges. Gulf Today, Staff Reporter SHARJAH: The Sharjah Government Communication Award (SGCA), a global annual initiative organised by the Sharjah Government Media Bureau (SGMB), continues to accept submissions for its 12th edition, with winners to be announced in September 2025. Recognising the power of effective messaging and content that has the ability to positively impact the world, this year's award programme seeks to identify and honour outstanding communication initiatives and digital content creators whose work informs, uplifts, and transforms societies globally. Applications are open until 24 July, 2025 at The award invites participants to reflect on the evolving nature of communication and its power to shape public discourse, influence perception, and contribute to societal progress. While all 23 categories across five key sectors celebrate innovation in communication, two categories in particular showcase how media and digital content are driving meaningful change: 'Best Communication and Media Content' and 'Best Changemakers in Digital Content'. The SGCA goes beyond traditional metrics such as media reach or digital virality, amplifying the power of content creation in all its evolving forms. The awards honour creators, institutions, and narratives that are redefining media across platforms, raising public awareness, and fostering a culture of responsible, impactful communication in today's digital age. The Best Communication and Media Content category is open to government entities, private institutions, and NGOs worldwide. It commends strategically conceived communication projects with clear objectives and measurable outcomes. Eligible entries will be considered through a broad range of formats, including comprehensive public campaigns, documentary productions, podcast series, digital platforms, and influential broadcast programming; to name a few. Submissions must exhibit excellence in production quality and creativity, but most importantly they must demonstrate strategic and well planned communication. Applicants are also required to provide evidence of measurable positive impact, such as enhanced public awareness, documented behavioural shifts, or contributions to policy development addressing societal challenges.
