Sharjah: H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and President of the University of Sharjah (UOS), and Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Family and Community Council, launched the inaugural Sharjah Human Development Forum. The event, held at UOS's Al Razi Hall, featured the theme 'Humanity and Heritage in Palestine.'
According to Emirates News Agency, the event commenced with the UAE national anthem, followed by a keynote address from H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi. He emphasized that the forum aligns with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, to prioritize people in all projects and efforts. He acknowledged Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi for involving UOS in the forum's mission, highlighting the importance of educational institutions in humanitarian and developmental pursuits.
In his address, H.H. noted that the chosen theme reflects the university's commitment to advancing the forum's objectives. He elaborated on the significance of heritage as a living ecosystem of values, knowledge, and creativity. H.H. pledged that UOS would support academic programs and research projects to safeguard Palestinian heritage, encouraging field studies and promoting cultural awareness.
H.H. Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi addressed the gathering, acknowledging the visionary leadership of H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi. She highlighted the rapid changes in the world and emphasized the importance of investing in Arab youth as seeds of ideas and civilization. She urged students to transform their sense of belonging into a legacy of service and humanity.
Her Highness announced the establishment of the Palestinian Studies Professorship and the 'Palestine Legacy Fund' at UOS. These initiatives aim to preserve Palestinian heritage and provide scholarships for displaced Palestinian students. She affirmed Palestine's central place in the UAE's conscience and called for continued solidarity.
The forum featured discussions on preserving cultural heritage, with insights from experts like Professor Ghassan Abu Sittah and Eng. Shatha Safi. The session highlighted the challenges faced by Palestine and the need for holistic wellbeing and community-centered heritage preservation.
Their Highnesses witnessed the signing of a cooperation agreement to establish the Jawaher Al Qasimi Chair in Palestinian Studies. This agreement aims to support research on Palestinian identity and heritage, providing academic opportunities for Palestinian students and researchers.
The forum also saw contributions to the Palestine Legacy Fund from various entities, reflecting a collective commitment to advancing education and preserving heritage. On the sidelines, an art exhibition titled 'I Once Had a Day' showcased works reflecting the Palestinian experience.
The inaugural Sharjah Human Development Forum aims to foster strategic thinking in humanitarian work, support women's empowerment, and promote knowledge-building. It offers a model for advancing human development regionally and globally, and was attended by notable figures and students from UOS.