Latest news with #SheikhaJawaherbintMohammedAlQasimi
Sharjah 24
2 days ago
- Politics
- Sharjah 24
KSQF drives systemic reform to safeguard children
As governments, NGOs, and advocacy groups spotlight the growing threats of exploitation, one organisation is pushing the conversation beyond awareness and toward urgent, systemic action. The Khalid bin Sultan Al Qasimi Humanitarian Foundation (KSQF), based in Sharjah, is implementing a proactive strategy to protect children by rewiring the structures that allow abuse, trafficking, and injustice to persist. Protecting children by tackling root causes KSQF recognises that today's crises are interconnected; displacement caused by climate disasters leads to school dropouts, heightening children's exposure to trafficking, and conflict and poverty push children into labour and criminal networks. Gender inequality multiplies these risks; especially for girls subjected to sexual exploitation and boys forced into armed groups or illicit work. The Foundation recognises that no single issue can be solved in isolation, and that meaningful protection requires a coordinated, cross-sectoral approach. Committed to the protection of children as its core mandate and overarching objective, KSQF's efforts also directly align with three key United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 16.2, which calls for ending abuse, exploitation, trafficking, and all forms of violence against and torture of children; SDG 5.3, which seeks to eliminate child, early, and forced marriage practices as well as female genital mutilation; and SDG 8.7, dedicated to eradicating forced labour, modern slavery, human trafficking, and child labour in all its forms. 'Protection is no longer just about rescue—it's about structural prevention,' says Lujan Mourad, Director of KSQF. 'The Foundation is implementing a comprehensive strategy encompassing three main pillars of advocacy programmes, safeguarding initiatives and capacity building. This involves prevention, specifically community awareness and development programmes; support, focusing on caring for and safeguarding children in need; and partnerships, building a global network of collaborations.' At the heart of this vision is the leadership of Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Wife to Ruler of Sharjah, Chairperson of the Foundation, and one of the region's foremost advocates for children's rights and global humanitarian development. Her Highness's commitment to the dignity and safety of children transcends borders, backgrounds, and bureaucracies. She has instilled in KSQF a bold humanitarian philosophy: that child protection is not an act of charity, but a duty of justice. Her leadership has steered the Foundation toward long-term, sustainable action that addresses the root causes of vulnerability and amplifies the voices of those too often unheard. Protecting children in Zanzibar and Mexico KSQF recently launched its first global initiatives aimed at protecting over 30,000 vulnerable children and their communities in Zanzibar and Mexico. In partnership with Save the Children International and Plan International, these projects tackle urgent issues like gender-based violence, child exploitation, and the hazards faced by migrant children. In Zanzibar, KSQF is expanding support services for survivors of violence, directly benefiting 1,000 individuals and reaching another 10,000 through community outreach. In Mexico, the 'Guardians of Children' project will provide essential aid and protection to 7,000 migrant children and adolescents, while indirectly supporting more than 15,000 people through awareness campaigns and community capacity building. KSQF's approach emphasises long-term sustainability, local empowerment, and building comprehensive protection systems to secure children's rights and safety now and into the future. In recognition of World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, KSQF's message resonates louder than ever: child protection cannot remain reactive. The systems that exploit children are global, organised, and evolving. The response must be just as urgent, just as coordinated—and just as unrelenting.
Sharjah 24
08-07-2025
- Business
- Sharjah 24
Sharjah Youth: Igniting Innovation in the Skills Lab
5 Sharjah Centres The lab is organised in five of its centres across the Emirate of Sharjah: Wasit Youth, Khorfakkan Youth, Kalba Youth, Dibba Al Hisn Youth, and Mleiha Youth. The programme is organised under the umbrella of the Central Region Centres, under the slogan "Where Skill Meets Fun." The programme is a parallel programme to the 'Let's Summer' 2025 activities. Exploring Youth Potential Through the lab, Sharjah Youth provides its members with an ideal opportunity to develop their skills and explore their potential in an inspiring, interactive environment. The programme embodies the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and his wife, Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Rubu' Qarn Foundation for Creating Future Leaders and Innovators, regarding the importance of building human capital and investing in their capabilities. The lab's activities will extend until the 31st of the same month. Making the Most of The Summer Vacation Abdul Hamid Al Yasi, Director of the lab, emphasised the importance of developing human capital and investing in human capital. The Youth Care Department at Sharjah Youth Foundation stated that the Skills Lab is an exceptional opportunity to make the most of the summer vacation through a unique package of programmes delivered in a safe environment. These programmes are designed according to a professional approach that contributes to developing, discovering, and supporting the talents and skills of participants, guiding them toward excellence. Going Beyond Traditional Summer Programmes Al Yassi pointed out that this year's Lab offers participants a rich and unique summer experience that goes beyond traditional summer programmes, blending practical creativity with applied knowledge. The focus has been on innovation and diversification in offering more than 100 specialised programmes, falling within eleven themes that address the interests of young people and open up new horizons for expression and innovation. It also instils a set of institutional values in participants, most notably inclusion, through surveying their opinions to ensure the provision of programmes that align with their aspirations, while ensuring positive impact and sustainability. 550 Participants on the First Day On its first day, the lab saw a remarkable turnout of more than 550 participants from Sharjah Youth, the Sharjah Police Sciences Academy (SPSA), the Al Hamriyah Cultural and Sports Club, and the Sharjah Social Empowerment Foundation. This reflects Sharjah's commitment to strengthening community partnerships and constructive interaction with local community bodies, institutions, and departments in the Emirate of Sharjah, serving the interests of future generations. This supports the vision of the Rubu' Qarn Foundation for Creating Future Leaders and Innovators, "A community partner in building and empowering informed and influential generations." 100 Specialised Programmes Across Eleven Themes The Skills Lab's programmes vary, covering artistic, technical, professional, craft, media, and musical creativity. Participants in the Fine Arts Lab embark on a visual journey through programmes and workshops on the art of pottery, carpets, resin, and cement, where fine details are embodied in handcrafted works that reflect their artistic taste. Screen and lens enthusiasts will find their favorite activities in the Cinematic Arts Lab, which offers a Cinematic Makeup Workshop, teaching the art of visual transformation and creative characterisation. It also covers photography, lighting, editing, technical processes, scripting, and directing. Meanwhile, the Modern Media Lab takes participants on a visual adventure with the Parallel World Lens Workshop, where the world is explored through the lens of a young woman brimming with artistic flair and visual storytelling. Behind the microphone, the Youth Studio Lab allows participants to experience podcasting and discover the power of sound to influence and create content. The Lab's organizers have not overlooked the modern heritage aspect, as the Islamic Civilization Arts Lab hosts a three-dimensional crafts workshop, which revives the aesthetic values of civilization with contemporary touches, in addition to the art of Ebru and letter weaving. The Lab also touches on the spirit of craftsmanship and life skills through the Vocational Lab, which includes programmes such as the Youth Chef, carpentry, and home maintenance, giving participants confidence and self-reliance in everyday life. The Technical Lab transports participants to the world of sustainability through a solar energy program that enhances their environmental awareness. For those who love smart innovation, the Smart Room workshop offers an exciting introduction to the world of smart homes. The Skills Lab, in collaboration with Rubu' Qarn's specialised centres, offers programmes in science and technology, theatre and performing arts, life skills, and music. These programmes include 3D printing in motion, LEGO robotics, and electrical wiring. Furthermore, the programme offers theatre programmes that range from self-discovery to the art of imagination and improvisation. The program also helps participants learn to play musical instruments such as the guitar, piano, and saxophone. With this richness and diversity, the Skills Lab affirms Sharjah Youth's commitment to empowering future generations and honing their skills by providing memorable experiences that contribute to building a well-rounded personality capable of interacting positively with the world around them.
Sharjah 24
01-07-2025
- General
- Sharjah 24
Sharjah Ladies Club celebrates 19th Basateen Preschool Graduation
Each year, the club hosts the event to celebrate the children's readiness for kindergarten and to share the moment with their families. The ceremony began with the UAE National Anthem, followed by creative performances by children. Guests also enjoyed a video presentation highlighting memorable moments from their academic year. The celebration concluded with the distribution of certificates and gifts, bringing the event to a joyful close. Mrs. Ala Alshanasi, Director of Business Management at Sharjah Ladies Club, expressed her happiness in celebrating this milestone with the children and their families. She emphasised that the success of the center is a direct result of the vision and support of Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Wife of the Ruler of Sharjah, Chairperson of Sharjah Ladies Club. She highlighted that Her Highness's vision has played a key role in shaping a high-quality early learning environment — one that prioritizes both international standards and child-focused care, led by a team of certified and experienced educators. She concluded by thanking the parents for their trust, and the staff for their efforts in making the year a success. Basateen Preschool Center is licensed by Sharjah Private Education Authority and maintains high standards in health, safety, and educational quality. The facility includes a licensed medical clinic, advanced surveillance systems, and routine sanitization measures. The teaching team holds advanced professional qualifications in early childhood education and is trained in first aid and learning support. Basateen Preschool Center is recognized as one of Sharjah's leading early childhood institutions. It focuses on building essential behavioral and cognitive skills, enhances their language skills and mathematical thinking, and Quran recitation Led by experienced educators, Basateen offers a safe and nurturing environment that inspires children to discover, express, and create, making the preschool of choice for families at the start of their children's learning journey.
Sharjah 24
20-06-2025
- General
- Sharjah 24
Dignity: The right that must never be forgotten
This becomes clear when we compare stable societies with refugee communities. In the former, necessities are often taken for granted. Over time, needs evolve—towards freedom of expression, creativity, personal growth, and fulfillment. In refugee communities, however, needs multiply in proportion to loss. Refugees long for a home, memories, school, protection, and the dream of a future, a need that only genuine human solidarity can fulfill, restoring a sense of reassurance to the spirit. This reality reminds us of a core principle in humanitarian work: the distinction between meeting basic needs and rebuilding the human spirit. Dignity, respect, and self-determination can take precedence over food or shelter. The need is not just to survive, but to feel alive. Without dignity, even food and medicine lose meaning. Aid must preserve self-respect and empower people as active participants in rebuilding their solidarity is not measured solely by what we provide, but by what we help keep alive within the individual. What keeps someone truly alive is not just bread and water, but passion, decision-making, expression, and the ability to dream. That's why at The Big Heart Foundation, we affirm that refugees are not a 'special case.' Our mission goes beyond physical needs—we must support to keep their spirit alive and their future is theirs to shape. We must move past viewing refugees solely as victims. Their needs extend beyond survival to all that gives life meaning. When dignity is restored, aid becomes partnership. Shelter becomes a home. The refugee becomes the architect of their future. Guided by His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, and supported by Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi,Chairperson of The Big Heart Foundation, we put dignity at the heart of our work. We ask ourselves: Have we listened? Have we preserved dignity? Have we made space for individuals to lead? On World Refugee Day, our message is clear: let us redefine solidarity. Let us make dignity a measure of success. Because without dignity, a person cannot rise—and if we strip it from others, we lose our own humanity.
Sharjah 24
28-05-2025
- Health
- Sharjah 24
ERT Centre reopens in Beirut with $2.3M support from TBHF
Funded by a USD 2.36 million (AED 8.7 million) contribution from TBHF's 'Salam Beirut' campaign, the project has reconstructed facilities in Lebanon's oldest and most revered medical institution, severely damaged in the catastrophic 2020 Beirut Port explosion. The inauguration signifies an important step in restoring critical healthcare access for thousands, and underscores the power of international solidarity in crisis response. The reconstructed unit now boasts state-of-the-art medical equipment, expanded capacity, enhanced trauma care facilities, and a new paediatric section; enabling SGHUMC to operate at full capacity for the first time since the blast. Expected to serve over 40,000 patients annually, the facility is a significant step forward in strengthening Beirut's healthcare capabilities. Sharjah supports Beirut's recovery efforts after the 2020 port blast The Port of Beirut explosion claimed over 150 lives, injured thousands, and displaced nearly 300,000 residents; and among the hardest-hit institutions was SGHUMC, a 147-year-old pillar of Lebanon's healthcare system, which sustained extensive structural and operational damage. Sharjah's response, following the compassionate and visionary leadership of Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Wife of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, Chairperson of TBHF, and UNHCR's first Eminent Advocate for Refugee Children, TBHF launched the 'Salam Beirut' campaign, raising over 30 million AED to aid recovery efforts. The reconstruction of SGHUMC's Emergency and Trauma (ERT) Centre has been one of the major accomplishments of the campaign. The inauguration ceremony was attended by His Eminence Metropolitan Elias Audi, Archbishop of Beirut and its Dependencies; Her Excellency Mariam Al Hammadi, Member of the Advisory Board of TBHF; Her Excellency Alya Al Musaiebi, Director of TBHF; Dr. Marwan Najjar, SGHUMC Chief Executive Officer; and Dr. Salah Chouairi, SGHUMC Chief Medical Officer; His Excellency Fahad Salem Al Kaabi, Chargé d'Affaires at the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in Lebanon; alongside other important figureheads from both TBHF and SGHUMC as well as healthcare leaders, diplomats, and regional partners. Her Excellency Alya Al Musaiebi, TBHF Director: Humanitarian work must be meaningful, long-term, and grounded in dignity At the inauguration ceremony, Her Excellency Alya Al Musaiebi, Director of TBHF, reaffirmed Sharjah's long-term friendship with Lebanon, praising the strength of its people. 'This initiative carries a message of love and solidarity from Sharjah, under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan Al Qasimi, and our Chairperson, Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher, to the people of Lebanon who have always faced adversity with resilience and pride', she noted. TBHF Director continued: 'The reconstructed and expanded ERT Centre at SGHUMC symbolizes our belief that humanitarian work must be meaningful, long-term, and grounded in the dignity of those we serve. The devastation caused by the Port of Beirut explosion was not just structural—it was deeply human, and our response through 'Salam Beirut' was committed to investing in systems that give people back not just services, but stability and self-worth. Today, we are not simply inaugurating a project; we are standing beside a community and investing in its future.' Dr. Joseph Wehbe, Chief of Staff and Head of the Emergency and Trauma Centre at Saint George University Hospital : This project goes beyond rebuilding—it restores hope to Beirut. Dr. Joseph Wehbe, Chief of Staff and Head of the Emergency and Trauma Centre at Saint George University Hospital, said: 'The rehabilitation, restoration, and expansion of the Emergency and Trauma Unit marks a moment of great pride for everyone at Saint George University Hospital. The hospital was among the most severely affected institutions by the tragic explosion that rocked the Port of Beirut, resulting in a complete shutdown for the first time since its founding in 1878. Despite the magnitude of the disaster, our determination never wavered. Through the dedication and perseverance of our medical and administrative teams, we managed to resume operations via a temporary emergency unit within a record time of just two weeks.' He added: 'Today, thanks to the generous support of The Big Heart Foundation, and under the guidance of its Chairperson, Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, we inaugurate a fully developed and advanced emergency unit equipped to the highest medical and technical standards—ready to resume its vital role in serving over 40,000 patients annually. This project is not merely about rebuilding a medical facility; it represents a noble humanitarian message and restores hope to the people of Beirut.' After the speeches and ribbon-cutting, guests received a guided tour of the ERT Centre and viewed a documentary illustrating the journey from devastation to renewal. A commemorative plaque honouring TBHF was unveiled, symbolizing SGHUMC's appreciation for their crucial support. The event ended with a reception attended by healthcare leaders, diplomats, and regional partners, united in their commitment to rebuilding Lebanon with dignity and hope. Originally announced in December 2020 as part of TBHF's 'Salam Beirut' campaign, the reconstruction of the Emergency and Trauma Unit was set to be completed within a few months. However, the aftermath of the Beirut Port explosion coincided with the global COVID-19 crisis, leading to necessary delays as parts of the hospital were repurposed to treat urgent cases during the pandemic. Throughout this period, SGHUMC remained steadfast in its service to the community by establishing a temporary emergency facility that continued to provide life-saving care.
