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Gulf Today
04-08-2025
- Health
- Gulf Today
14th edition of IGCF to host 22 interactive platforms in Sharjah
Sharjah is set to host the 14th edition of the International Government Communication Forum (IGCF) on Sept.10–11, 2025, under the theme 'Communication for Quality of Life.' The forum will take place at Expo Centre Sharjah, featuring over 22 interactive platforms designed to position communication as a cornerstone in addressing future societal challenges. Organised by the Sharjah Government Media Bureau (SGMB), this global platform will explore the evolving role of communication in driving impact across five vital areas: food security, public health, education, environmental sustainability, and the green economy, all essential pillars for enhancing human well-being. This year's edition will place particular focus on food security as a key pillar of social and economic stability. It will examine how government communication can help raise awareness around sustainable food systems, promote smart agricultural practices, and support biodiversity conservation. According to UN reports, more than 670 million people could face undernourishment by 2030, with 258 million already experiencing severe food insecurity. These figures reinforce the need for responsive, awareness-driven communication that bridges communities and policy. IGCF 2025 will also highlight the role of communication in turning health crises into opportunities for building more informed and resilient societies. It will explore how targeted campaigns can address the effects of food insecurity while closing socio-economic gaps. This is especially significant given that 45% of deaths among children under five are linked to malnutrition, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO). COMMUNICATION AS A STRATEGIC LEVER: Alia Al Suwaidi, Director of SGMB, said this year's forum continues to reinforce communication as a vital tool in designing forward-thinking strategies and achieving lasting societal impact. 'Communication is a development driver and a key element in shaping quality of life. This year, we are calling for a broader view of communication, one that addresses environmental, economic, and social challenges with a focus on sustainability and the well-being of future generations,' she said. Al Suwaidi noted that since its launch in 2012, IGCF has established itself as a regional and global thought leadership platform, uniting policymakers, experts, and innovators in a multidisciplinary dialogue rooted in knowledge and practice. The forum will highlight education as a long-term enabler of generational empowerment. It will showcase curriculum development models aligned with future-focused skills such as sustainable agriculture and emerging technologies, enabling young people to offer real-world solutions to climate and food security challenges. In parallel, IGCF 2025 will explore the role of government communication in influencing urban behaviour and lifestyle patterns in the cities of the future—through public campaigns that inspire people to reduce waste, consume responsibly, and adopt sustainable living habits. Data shows that 1.3 billion tonnes of food are wasted globally each year — about 31 per cent of total production — even as millions suffer from hunger. This stark contrast underscores the importance of adopting government narratives that go beyond delivering facts and instead reshape public behaviour. The forum will delve into the power of government storytelling, an approach that does not merely convey information but actively shapes public consciousness. By using relatable, human-centred messaging, governments can build trust and forge stronger engagement with communities. Whether tackling issues like food waste or climate change, effective storytelling becomes a persuasive tool, one that motivates, inspires, and drives behavioural change at the societal level. GREEN ECONOMY AND THE PATH FORWARD: IGCF 2025 will also examine how green economy initiatives can support food sustainability and enhance quality of life. It will explore the role of public policies and private-sector partnerships in adopting low-emission agricultural technologies, potentially reducing carbon emissions by 30 per cent by 2050. UN studies indicate that every dollar invested in sustainable agriculture yields a return of 2.5 times in economic and social value. Additionally, the green economy is expected to generate over 24 million jobs worldwide by 2030.
Sharjah 24
03-08-2025
- General
- Sharjah 24
Communication for "Quality of Life": IGCF 2025 Vision
5 vital areas Organised by the Sharjah Government Media Bureau (SGMB), this global platform will explore the evolving role of communication in driving impact across five vital areas: food security, public health, education, environmental sustainability, and the green economy, all essential pillars for enhancing human well-being. This year's edition will place particular focus on food security as a key pillar of social and economic stability. It will examine how government communication can help raise awareness around sustainable food systems, promote smart agricultural practices, and support biodiversity conservation. According to UN reports, more than 670 million people could face undernourishment by 2030, with 258 million already experiencing severe food insecurity. These figures reinforce the need for responsive, awareness-driven communication that bridges communities and policy. IGCF 2025 will also highlight the role of communication in turning health crises into opportunities for building more informed and resilient societies. It will explore how targeted campaigns can address the effects of food insecurity while closing socio-economic gaps. This is especially significant given that 45% of deaths among children under five are linked to malnutrition, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Communication as a strategic lever Her Excellency, Alia Al Suwaidi, Director of SGMB, said that this year's forum continues to reinforce communication as a vital tool in designing forward-thinking strategies and achieving lasting societal impact. 'Communication is a development driver and a key element in shaping quality of life. This year, we are calling for a broader view of communication, one that addresses environmental, economic, and social challenges with a focus on sustainability and the well-being of future generations,' she said. Al Suwaidi noted that since its launch in 2012, IGCF has established itself as a regional and global thought leadership platform, uniting policymakers, experts, and innovators in a multidisciplinary dialogue rooted in knowledge and practice. Education as a long-term communication channel The forum will highlight education as a long-term enabler of generational empowerment. It will showcase curriculum development models aligned with future-focused skills such as sustainable agriculture and emerging technologies, enabling young people to offer real-world solutions to climate and food security challenges. In parallel, IGCF 2025 will explore the role of government communication in influencing urban behaviour and lifestyle patterns in the cities of the future—through public campaigns that inspire people to reduce waste, consume responsibly , and adopt sustainable living habits. Data shows that 1.3 billion tonnes of food are wasted globally each year—about 31 per cent of total production—even as millions suffer from hunger. This stark contrast underscores the importance of adopting government narratives that go beyond delivering facts and instead reshape public behaviour. Government storytelling as a catalyst for change The forum will delve into the power of government storytelling, an approach that does not merely convey information but actively shapes public consciousness. By using relatable, human-centred messaging, governments can build trust and forge stronger engagement with communities. Whether tackling issues like food waste or climate change, effective storytelling becomes a persuasive tool, one that motivates, inspires, and drives behavioural change at the societal level. Green economy and the path forward IGCF 2025 will also examine how green economy initiatives can support food sustainability and enhance quality of life. It will explore the role of public policies and private-sector partnerships in adopting low-emission agricultural technologies, potentially reducing carbon emissions by 30 per cent by 2050. UN studies indicate that every dollar invested in sustainable agriculture yields a return of 2.5 times in economic and social value. Additionally, the green economy is expected to generate over 24 million jobs worldwide by 2030.
Zawya
03-08-2025
- Health
- Zawya
IGCF 2025 to host 22 interactive platforms to shape Future-Ready quality of life models
Alia Al Suwaidi: Expanding the functions of communication is key to sustainability and ensuring a better life for future generations Sharjah: Sharjah is set to host the 14th edition of the International Government Communication Forum (IGCF) on September 10–11, 2025, under the theme 'Communication for Quality of Life.' The forum will take place at Expo Centre Sharjah, featuring over 22 interactive platforms designed to position communication as a cornerstone in addressing future societal challenges. Organised by the Sharjah Government Media Bureau (SGMB), this global platform will explore the evolving role of communication in driving impact across five vital areas: food security, public health, education, environmental sustainability, and the green economy, all essential pillars for enhancing human well-being. This year's edition will place particular focus on food security as a key pillar of social and economic stability. It will examine how government communication can help raise awareness around sustainable food systems, promote smart agricultural practices, and support biodiversity conservation. According to UN reports, more than 670 million people could face undernourishment by 2030, with 258 million already experiencing severe food insecurity. These figures reinforce the need for responsive, awareness-driven communication that bridges communities and policy. IGCF 2025 will also highlight the role of communication in turning health crises into opportunities for building more informed and resilient societies. It will explore how targeted campaigns can address the effects of food insecurity while closing socio-economic gaps. This is especially significant given that 45% of deaths among children under five are linked to malnutrition, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Communication as a strategic lever Her Excellency, Alia Al Suwaidi, Director of SGMB, said this year's forum continues to reinforce communication as a vital tool in designing forward-thinking strategies and achieving lasting societal impact. 'Communication is a development driver and a key element in shaping quality of life. This year, we are calling for a broader view of communication, one that addresses environmental, economic, and social challenges with a focus on sustainability and the well-being of future generations,' she said. Al Suwaidi noted that since its launch in 2012, IGCF has established itself as a regional and global thought leadership platform, uniting policymakers, experts, and innovators in a multidisciplinary dialogue rooted in knowledge and practice. Education as a long-term communication channel The forum will highlight education as a long-term enabler of generational empowerment. It will showcase curriculum development models aligned with future-focused skills such as sustainable agriculture and emerging technologies, enabling young people to offer real-world solutions to climate and food security challenges. In parallel, IGCF 2025 will explore the role of government communication in influencing urban behaviour and lifestyle patterns in the cities of the future—through public campaigns that inspire people to reduce waste, consume responsibly , and adopt sustainable living habits. Data shows that 1.3 billion tonnes of food are wasted globally each year—about 31 per cent of total production —even as millions suffer from hunger. This stark contrast underscores the importance of adopting government narratives that go beyond delivering facts and instead reshape public behaviour. Government storytelling as a catalyst for change The forum will delve into the power of government storytelling, an approach that does not merely convey information but actively shapes public consciousness. By using relatable, human-centred messaging, governments can build trust and forge stronger engagement with communities. Whether tackling issues like food waste or climate change, effective storytelling becomes a persuasive tool, one that motivates, inspires, and drives behavioural change at the societal level. Green economy and the path forward IGCF 2025 will also examine how green economy initiatives can support food sustainability and enhance quality of life. It will explore the role of public policies and private-sector partnerships in adopting low-emission agricultural technologies, potentially reducing carbon emissions by 30 per cent by 2050. UN studies indicate that every dollar invested in sustainable agriculture yields a return of 2.5 times in economic and social value. Additionally, the green economy is expected to generate over 24 million jobs worldwide by 2030.
Sharjah 24
27-07-2025
- Business
- Sharjah 24
SGMB to launch practical phase of 7th 'Ithmar' edition
Targeting participants aged 10 to 15, the new phase will see trainees step behind the microphone to create original audio content that reflects their ideas, interests, and aspirations. The Sharjah Press Club (SPC) has commenced the recording of podcast episodes, building on the skills acquired during the initial two-week training phase. The episodes will address a wide range of topics selected by the participants themselves, including bullying, mental health, artificial intelligence, media, education, children's rights, entrepreneurship, the environment, society and influencers, as well as an interview with a community leader. These themes emerged from brainstorming sessions held throughout the training, where participants worked in editorial and presentation teams to develop their questions and structure their episodes. This process exposed them to the full production journey, from concept development to recording. The programme is delivered in partnership with CNN Arabic and supported by experienced media professionals from Sharjah Broadcasting Authority and SGMB. Sessions covered voice training, interview techniques, and podcast storytelling, equipping students with the tools to produce content with clarity and confidence. Her Excellency Alia Al Suwaidi, Director of SGMB, emphasised that Ithmar is designed to give young people a space to create, experiment, and grow. Through hands-on training, group work, and direct interaction with media professionals, she said, participants are encouraged to think critically and express themselves effectively. Al Suwaidi noted that participants in the seventh edition have shown strong curiosity and commitment throughout the training. Their ability to turn ideas into clear and relevant media content, she added, demonstrates their skills in using media to represent their perspectives and goals. Over two weeks, trainees followed a programme aimed at developing both their communication skills and technical abilities. The first week focused on speech delivery, storytelling, and microphone presence. The second week moved further into podcast production, covering the preparation of questions, audio narration, and the use of artificial intelligence to enhance content creation. With podcast recordings set to begin this week, 'Ithmar' continues to fulfill its mission of preparing a media-literate generation capable of contributing thoughtfully and creatively to public discussions.
Sharjah 24
22-07-2025
- 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.
