Latest news with #AlZarouni
Sharjah 24
03-07-2025
- General
- Sharjah 24
Sharjah and Ireland share expertise in elderly education
Ireland's inclusive model for lifelong learning The Irish delegation, representing Dublin Learning City under UNESCO's umbrella, presented Ireland's advanced experience through a comprehensive national strategy aimed at enhancing the digital and cognitive skills of older adults, particularly those over the age of 60. Statistics show that around 47% of Ireland's elderly population lack basic digital skills, and one in five adults faces challenges with daily reading. In response, Ireland has developed flexible and free learning programmes that offer technology training, access to online services, health literacy, and creative courses in writing and the arts as an entry point to sustainable lifelong learning. Beyond reading: redefining literacy for the modern age What makes the Irish model distinctive is its holistic understanding of literacy. It goes beyond reading and writing to include speaking, listening, numeracy, and digital competence. Educational institutions in Ireland also run awareness campaigns and thematic learning events such as 'Maths Day' and 'Read and Share Day' to raise public awareness and promote community engagement. Sharjah draws inspiration from Irish success Ms Naama Al Zarouni, Director of the Social Education Department, said that adopting similar initiatives would reinforce Sharjah's status as a learning society and support the elderly in remaining confident and independent amid rapid digital change. She added: 'We aim to develop high-quality educational services tailored to the needs of the elderly, opening new opportunities for lifelong learning by incorporating digital skills and expanding the concept of literacy to include both technological and life skills.' Al-Ilm Noor as a model for local adaptation Al Zarouni confirmed that the "Al-Ilm Noor" programme offers a promising local model for embracing leading international practices. Drawing from the Irish experience will enable the development of more flexible and comprehensive learning programmes and specialised events that encourage senior participation and create an engaging learning environment that balances self-directed and group learning.
Sharjah 24
03-07-2025
- Health
- Sharjah 24
Sharjah trains hotel staff to better serve the elderly
The workshops are organised by the Social Education Department and the Sharjah Age-Friendly City Programme, affiliated with the Office of Age-Friendly Quality and Health Services. Sessions are being held in both Arabic and English to maximise impact. According to Asmaa Al Khodari, Director of the Office of Age-Friendly Quality and Health Services, the initiative is part of ongoing efforts that support Sharjah's membership in the World Health Organisation's Global Network for Age-Friendly Cities, reinforcing its position as an age-inclusive city. The aim is to raise awareness and preparedness among hospitality staff to offer high-quality, considerate service to elderly guests. This aligns with Sharjah's broader vision of building an inclusive, people-centric environment that improves quality of life and encourages elderly visitors to explore the emirate's diverse tourism offerings. Human values in hospitality Na'ema Al Zarouni, Director of the Social Education Department, emphasised that caring for the elderly is one of the noblest human and moral acts. She added that what makes the experience more positive is understanding how best to interact with older individuals and seeking the most appropriate ways to support them. Helping others, she noted, is one of the key sources of inner happiness and contentment. She explained that while her department has regularly conducted elderly care workshops, this is the first time sessions are targeted specifically at hotel employees. This move aims to encourage senior citizens to use hotel facilities with comfort and confidence. The workshops, offered in both Arabic and English, include interactive exercises and competitions designed to deepen participants' awareness and understanding. Key skills and attitudes One of the most important messages conveyed is the need for hotel staff to be aware of the specific needs of elderly guests and to approach them differently from other patrons. Staff should embody values such as compassion, kindness, empathy, patience, and tolerance — similar to how one would communicate with a child. It is essential to simplify information when speaking with seniors and to inform them clearly of potential risks to enhance their safety. Establishing a relationship of trust is also vital, so that elderly guests feel secure and well cared for — which ultimately improves their overall hotel experience and reflects the quality of service provided. Respect and appreciation for seniors Al Zarouni noted that ageing is a natural and inevitable part of life, through which people accumulate experience and wisdom. Respect and appreciation must form the basis of any interaction with the elderly, although many tend to overlook important aspects that could improve communication. She stressed that helping others benefits not only the recipients but also those who provide the support — spiritually, ethically, and socially. Al Zarouni affirmed that elderly people deserve honour and respect, as they hold a distinguished place in society. Islam has paid special attention to the care of older adults, considering their service and well-being as acts of goodness and blessing. She praised the UAE's efforts in this area, highlighting its strong legislative framework, including the Elderly Rights Law, which aims to protect their rights and ensure a dignified life for them as a cornerstone of the nation's social, cultural, and religious fabric.
Al Etihad
02-07-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
General Civil Aviation Authority issues first regulatory framework for hybrid operations of electric and conventional helicopters
2 July 2025 14:14 DUBAI (ALETIHAD)In a step that confirms the UAE's global leadership in aviation innovation, the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has issued the world's first regulatory framework for hybrid operations, enabling both electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing aircraft (eVTOLs) and conventional helicopters to operate interchangeably on the same innovative regulatory framework represents a significant leap in integrating Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) solutions into existing aviation offers a cost-effective model for infrastructure development, accelerates operational readiness, and aligns with the UAE government's directives to implement high-efficiency, non-bureaucratic solutions across various Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director General of the GCAA, said: 'The UAE has always been at the forefront of excellence in aviation. This pioneering regulatory framework does not merely enable new technology; it redefines how aviation evolves."It reflects our commitment to innovation in developing a supportive ecosystem for the growth of this vital sector, and a future where advanced air mobility is seamlessly integrated into our national infrastructure.'The hybrid operations framework results from close collaboration with international partners in the advanced air mobility sector, and is fully aligned with the UAE's national vision for sustainability, smart mobility, and optimised infrastructure enabling dual-use between conventional helicopter pads and electric vertical takeoff and landing pads, this initiative helps accelerate implementation timelines, optimises infrastructure utilisation, and cements the UAE's position as a leader in fostering an integrated ecosystem supporting the future of Al Zarouni, Assistant Director General for Aviation Safety Affairs at the GCAA, added: 'We are proud to develop a regulatory framework that combines innovation with effective safety oversight. This framework is a strategic enabler, not only for new modes of transport but for a smarter, more flexible regulatory environment that keeps pace with emerging technologies without compromising safety standards.' As the global aviation community prepares for the next era of air mobility, the UAE continues to set pioneering standards, emphasising that possessing a bold long-term vision, advanced industrial capabilities, and a sophisticated infrastructure are the essential pillars for successfully integrating advanced air mobility.
Sharjah 24
01-07-2025
- General
- Sharjah 24
Sharjah Social Services takes part in ‘Al Khairat'
The programme 'The Emirati House – Al Khairat' aims to highlight authentic societal practices that reinforce the concept of positive citizenship and showcase the behavioural and social aspects of Emirati cultural heritage. Two educational workshops for children The department's participation included two educational workshops for children. The first focused on teaching sana'—Emirati customs and traditions—including the principles of hospitality and traditional coffee serving, as well as heritage games such as the dallah and the finjan. The second workshop focused on Emirati cooking and featured an interactive session on how to prepare bathitha, one of the most renowned traditional dishes. The session contributed to strengthening intergenerational communication and highlighting Emirati cultural and social heritage. This initiative reflects the department's commitment to promoting national identity and connecting generations with local heritage, aligning with its goals to serve the community and enhance cultural awareness across its various segments. Instilling values and strengthening Emirati identity On this occasion, Naama Al Zarouni, Director of the Social Education Department at Sharjah Social Services, affirmed the importance of the department's participation in community programmes like 'The Emirati House – Al Khairat', due to their positive impact on children and society as a whole. She pointed out that the department, through its Social Education Division, always seeks to deepen the understanding of Emirati identity and connect new generations with their heritage, while ensuring workshops are delivered in enjoyable and interactive learning environments. Al Zarouni explained that the workshops—delivered by a specialised team from the Social Education Department—aim to teach the fundamentals of Emirati customs and traditions, including hospitality etiquette, how to receive guests, and how to serve Arabic coffee. She stressed that such activities help instil values in children from a young age, especially in light of the challenges posed by the digital age, which can affect morals and values. She added that as a community institution, the department is committed to integration and cooperation with various child-focused entities to preserve local identity and community heritage. She praised the efforts of Sharjah Children and their constant dedication to launching diverse initiatives that develop children's skills and empower them to become productive contributors to society. Al Zarouni also confirmed the Social Education Department's readiness to collaborate with all institutions to enhance community awareness, pointing to the department's vital role in supporting community and educational initiatives that help preserve national identity and instil societal values.
Sharjah 24
19-06-2025
- Health
- Sharjah 24
'Your Safety is Our Goal' launched to prevent heat exhaustion
Covering Sharjah regions and important sectors Al Zarouni added that the campaign will cover all of Sharjah, including the city, central and eastern regions, and Al Hamriyah. Its goal is to enhance community awareness of the dangers of excessive heat and to provide workers with protective equipment to assist them in avoiding heat-related accidents. In partnership with the Health Education Department at the Supreme Council for Family Affairs in Sharjah, as well as partners from the government, local, and private sectors, the campaign supports national efforts to improve public health and coincides with the directives of the "Year of Community 2025.". Campaign's goals The statement was made during a news conference held by the ministry at the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, which was attended by Al Zarouni, Her Excellency Mona Al Hawi, Chairperson of the Friends of Kidney Patients Association (FOKP), and representatives from participating organisations. Targeting workers and vulnerable groups Al Zarouni confirmed that the campaign's goal for this year is to reach 10,000 workers, including households, domestic workers, factory employees, and field workers who are most exposed to sunlight, such as police officers, municipal inspectors, field engineers, and delivery drivers. To raise awareness of the risks of heat exhaustion, virtual awareness workshops and SMS advertising will be implemented. Highlighting value of collaboration He concluded by thanking the supporters who contributed to the 14th edition of the campaign and emphasising the necessity of collective action to ensure community safety.
