
Sharjah Youth: Igniting Innovation in the Skills Lab
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.
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