Latest news with #SharjahPublicLibrary
Sharjah 24
19-05-2025
- General
- Sharjah 24
Sharjah Parents Council inspires families with talk on reading
The event took place at the Sharjah Public Library and was held under the council's programme schedule for the 2024–2025 academic year. These initiatives aim to engage both families and school communities — including parents, teachers, and students — to establish reading as a way of life and a key to inner happiness and greater community awareness. Reinforcing Sharjah's educational and social commitment By organising this lecture, the council reaffirmed its firm commitment to its educational and societal mission. This lecture forms part of a broader series of reading- and knowledge-focused activities being implemented throughout the current school year. The objective is to support the educational ecosystem and foster an inspiring environment that strengthens opportunities for continuous learning. Ultimately, these efforts contribute to building a culturally aware and intellectually enriched reading society. A celebrated speaker and wide participation The lecture was presented by Emirati author and researcher Dr. Mohammed Hamdan bin Jarsh Al Suwaidi. The event saw strong attendance from parents, students, and a diverse group of educators representing both public and private schools across the city of Sharjah. In addition, the lecture attracted individuals with an interest in cultural and intellectual development from across the emirate. Building a society equipped for modern challenges This event formed part of the council's strategic efforts to nurture a well-informed and intellectually engaged society capable of meeting the challenges of the contemporary world with knowledge and vision. It also reflected the council's conviction in the importance of connecting educational values with dynamic, impactful reading practices. The power of reading to shape the mind and spirit Throughout the lecture, Dr. bin Jarsh explored several essential themes that underscored the deep and transformative influence of reading on mental health and the development of both individual and collective thought. He emphasised that reading should not be viewed merely as a path to knowledge, but rather as a holistic human experience that enhances personal happiness and cultivates inner peace. He noted that engaging with cultural and intellectual texts opens up new perspectives and allows people to see life from multiple angles. Hunger for knowledge as a path to growth In one notable section of the talk, Dr. bin Jarsh asserted that human beings are inherently driven by a hunger for knowledge — one that grows stronger as awareness deepens. He described this intellectual appetite as a fundamental motivator for personal liberation and progress. According to him, reading plays a pivotal role in reshaping how individuals perceive life and in creating a more radiant and hopeful reality. Lively discussion and practical takeaways The lecture addressed a range of thought-provoking topics that sparked active dialogue among attendees. These included how reading can serve as a key to emotional wellbeing, its ability to expand intellectual horizons, and its role in building bridges of cultural and human connection across communities. Making reading a family ritual Beyond theoretical discussions, the lecture included an interactive segment focused on practical ways to inspire families to instil a love of reading in children. Dr. bin Jarsh prioritised engagement with the audience, offering actionable ideas to nurture reading habits in the younger generation — such as setting up simple home libraries and designating family time for shared reading. These initiatives not only foster a deep-rooted appreciation for reading but also strengthen family bonds and encourage a daily routine that develops well-rounded, thoughtful individuals.
Sharjah 24
05-05-2025
- General
- Sharjah 24
SSEF's 'Athar' promotes behavioural values
These visits were part of the "Athar" (Impact) programme's workshop series, with the participation of 15 children between the ages of 8 and 12. The visits aimed to empower children who have lost their fathers psychologically, socially, and environmentally. Interactive education The visits aimed to reinforce a set of moral and behavioural values by linking them to the surrounding environment and instilling diverse values such as compassion, acceptance of others, and self-defense in an interactive educational manner. They also aimed to develop children's observation and deduction skills in a practical and field-based manner, drawing inspiration from the animal world and the surrounding environment. Group work and coexistence values The visits also aimed to develop knowledge and the great lessons they hold in adaptation, diversity, and coexistence. They also aimed to instill a spirit of teamwork and cooperation among children through group work. The programme included educational tours aimed at creating an atmosphere of fun and educational enjoyment, which contributes to raising children's motivation to learn by learning about animals and their different environments. Additionally, educational activities such as drawing living creatures and writing phrases expressing acquired values contributed to consolidating behavioural concepts in a practical and enjoyable manner. The visit to the Sharjah Public Library also included a workshop titled "A Journey of Values Between the Shelves," which focused on developing children's value awareness. This stop reinforced four key values: love of knowledge, respect, discipline, and positive curiosity, amidst an interactive educational atmosphere aimed at instilling educational values in a fun and creative way. This opened the door to dialogue with children and highlighted their connection to their place. Building character and human values In this context, Nawal Al Hamdi, Director of the Social Welfare Department, stated that as part of the Foundation's vision to support children psychologically, socially, and environmentally through integrated development programmes that focus on building character and enhancing their human values, we were keen to implement a new series of the 'Athar' programme in an innovative way that allows children to experience an inspiring educational experience in diverse environments. The visits were rich educational experiences that combined learning and fun, and contributed to strengthening children's behavioural and moral values in a practical way, instilling them in their minds through real-life situations and live observation. Al Hamdi confirmed that SSEF believes that investing in building children's values is the cornerstone of creating a conscious generation capable of making a positive contribution to their community. Through the programme, the foundation seeks to promote positive behavioural values through interactive experiences that instill diverse concepts in every encounter." Social empowerment and environmental awareness As part of the Foundation's strategic direction towards achieving sustainability, Sharjah Social Empowerment Foundation (SSEF) integrates the two pillars of social empowerment and environmental awareness. SSEF believes that caring for children enrolled in the Foundation goes beyond social and psychological support, but also extends to building a generation aware of their environmental role and responsibilities towards their planet. Through this integration, the Foundation seeks to instill the concept of sustainability as a way of life among children, enabling them to become ambassadors of environmental awareness and effective leaders in their communities in the future. The Foundation continues its commitment to caring for and empowering orphans by offering fruitful programmes that contribute to enhancing psychological, social, and environmental health and building the character of children, enabling them to face life's challenges with confidence and strength. The "Athar" programme falls within the framework of Sharjah Social Empowerment Foundation's vision to raise a generation with noble values and positive behaviour that will be reflected in their families and communities. This programme is delivered through innovative, interactive activities that instill moral values in a child-friendly manner.
Gulf Today
04-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
Bodour fetes AUS for stage adaptation of Sultan's work
Sheikha Bodour Bint Sultan Al Qasimi, President of American University of Sharjah (AUS), recognised a team of students, alumni and faculty from AUS for their contributions to The Pawned Dagger, a theatrical adaptation of a literary work by His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Sharjah, during an on-campus award ceremony. The production, performed on January 29, 2025, at Al Hisn Fort in downtown Sharjah, was staged as part of the 100-year anniversary celebration of the Sharjah Public Library, reinforcing the role of storytelling in cultural preservation and education. Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi said: 'The creativity, dedication, and hard work of AUS students and faculty were at the heart of this production. Meeting them was a chance to recognise their achievements and encourage them to keep exploring the power of storytelling. Their commitment to bringing The Pawned Dagger to life reflects the important role of the arts in preserving our cultural heritage. I was pleased to present them with a commemorative silver coin marking the centenary of Sharjah's first library as a small token of appreciation for their efforts in keeping the spirit of knowledge and creativity alive.' Directed by Abishek Nair, Visiting Professor in the AUS Performing Arts Program, the adaptation focused on a key chapter from The Pawned Dagger, remaining true to its historical and cultural essence while engaging contemporary audiences. The cast and crew included students from the AUS Performing Arts Programme in the College of Arts and Sciences, alongside students from other academic disciplines at AUS and Sharjah Performing Arts Academy. 'This performance was an opportunity for students to connect literature with lived history, performing in a space that mirrored the world of the story,' said Nair. 'Bringing The Pawned Dagger to Al Hisn Fort created an experience that went beyond the stage, allowing students and audiences alike to engage with the cultural and historical significance of the work.' The production required months of preparation, with rehearsals beginning in October 2024. Students and faculty spent four months refining the adaptation, developing stage direction and addressing the challenges of performing in a historical venue. Special adjustments were made to integrate acoustics, movement and historical preservation considerations into the performance. 'The centennial celebration of the Sharjah Public Library is a moment to reflect on the power of storytelling across generations,' said Dr. Mahmoud Anabtawi, Dean of the AUS College of Arts and Sciences. 'By bringing The Pawned Dagger to life on stage, our students contributed to that legacy, transforming literature into performance while demonstrating how the arts and humanities shape our understanding of history, culture and identity. Their commitment to this adaptation is a testament to the role of AUS in nurturing talent and fostering a deep appreciation for the creative arts.' Music played a key role in shaping the production, with a live interactive performance of traditional Arabic music throughout the play. 'Theatre offers students a distinctive way to engage with literature beyond the written word, and performing the work of our university's founder, His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, is a deeply enriching experience,' said Dr. Albert Agha, Assistant Professor of Music and Coordinator of the Performing Arts Programme at AUS. 'This production encouraged students to interpret historical storytelling in a live setting, allowing them to develop skills in performance, collaboration and creative expression.' To document the production and ensure future students can learn from this adaptation, the AUS library will house an archive of The Pawned Dagger, including scripts, behind-the-scenes materials and visual documentation. As one of the few programmes of its kind in the region, the AUS Performing Arts Programme offers students opportunities to study music and theatre while gaining hands-on experience in both performance and technical production. Students from across the university's academic disciplines regularly participate in concerts and theatrical productions, enhancing their creative and professional development. For more information on the programme, visit
Sharjah 24
03-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Sharjah 24
Bodour Al Qasimi recognises AUS team for Pawned Dagger adaptation
The production, performed on January 29, 2025, at Al Hisn Fort in downtown Sharjah, was staged as part of the 100-year anniversary celebration of the Sharjah Public Library, reinforcing the role of storytelling in cultural preservation and education. Recognising creativity, dedication, and hard work of AUS students Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi said: 'The creativity, dedication, and hard work of AUS students and faculty were at the heart of this production. Meeting them was a chance to recognise their achievements and encourage them to keep exploring the power of storytelling. Their commitment to bringing The Pawned Dagger to life reflects the important role of the arts in preserving our cultural heritage. I was pleased to present them with a commemorative silver coin marking the centenary of Sharjah's first library as a small token of appreciation for their efforts in keeping the spirit of knowledge and creativity alive.' Directed by Abishek Nair, Visiting Professor in the AUS Performing Arts Programme, the adaptation focused on a key chapter from The Pawned Dagger, remaining true to its historical and cultural essence while engaging contemporary audiences. The cast and crew included students from the AUS Performing Arts Programme in the College of Arts and Sciences, alongside students from other academic disciplines at AUS and Sharjah Performing Arts Academy. 'This performance was an opportunity for students to connect literature with lived history, performing in a space that mirrored the world of the story,' said Nair. 'Bringing The Pawned Dagger to Al Hisn Fort created an experience that went beyond the stage, allowing students and audiences alike to engage with the cultural and historical significance of the work.' Production required months of preparation The production required months of preparation, with rehearsals beginning in October 2024. Students and faculty spent four months refining the adaptation, developing stage direction and addressing the challenges of performing in a historical venue. Special adjustments were made to integrate acoustics, movement and historical preservation considerations into the performance. 'The centennial celebration of the Sharjah Public Library is a moment to reflect on the power of storytelling across generations,' said Dr. Mahmoud Anabtawi, Dean of the AUS College of Arts and Sciences. 'By bringing The Pawned Dagger to life on stage, our students contributed to that legacy, transforming literature into performance while demonstrating how the arts and humanities shape our understanding of history, culture and identity. Their commitment to this adaptation is a testament to the role of AUS in nurturing talent and fostering a deep appreciation for the creative arts.' Music played a key role in shaping the production Music played a key role in shaping the production, with a live interactive performance of traditional Arabic music throughout the play. 'Theater offers students a distinctive way to engage with literature beyond the written word, and performing the work of our university's founder, His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, is a deeply enriching experience,' said Dr. Albert Agha, Assistant Professor of Music and Coordinator of the Performing Arts Programme at AUS. 'This production encouraged students to interpret historical storytelling in a live setting, allowing them to develop skills in performance, collaboration and creative expression.' To document the production and ensure future students can learn from this adaptation, the AUS library will house an archive of The Pawned Dagger, including scripts, behind-the-scenes materials and visual documentation. As one of the few programmes of its kind in the region, the AUS Performing Arts Programme offers students opportunities to study music and theater while gaining hands-on experience in both performance and technical production. Students from across the university's academic disciplines regularly participate in concerts and theatrical productions, enhancing their creative and professional development. For more information on the programme, visit
