Latest news with #SocialEducationDepartment
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.
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
27-05-2025
- General
- Sharjah 24
SSSD promotes children's awareness of their rights
International Child Helpline Day The initiative coincides with the International Child Helpline Day. On this occasion, SSSD organises awareness campaigns and a variety of activities targeting government and private schools, as well as child-focused centres across Sharjah. The aim is to highlight the importance of the child helpline in offering protection and support for children. The campaign is delivered by a team of social workers, legal researchers, psychologists, and social educators from the Child and Family Protection Centre, along with the Social Education Department and educators from the Department's branches. These sessions are being held in both public and private schools throughout the emirate. A safe environment that respects dignity The initiative targets 575 children across Sharjah, providing educational and awareness programs designed to inform them of their fundamental rights and empower them to report and seek help in the event of abuse or neglect. This initiative is part of SSSD's broader vision to support all children, including those with disabilities, by raising their awareness within a safe environment that respects their rights and preserves their dignity. The program also aims to help children understand their rights, equip them with the tools they need to protect themselves, and ensure an environment that fosters healthy and safe development. A range of rights are covered Fatima Al Marzouqi, Director of the Child and Family Protection Centre, stated that these awareness programs are part of SSSD's ongoing efforts to safeguard children's rights and increase their awareness. She explained that SSSD is constantly working to provide all necessary means to ensure a decent life for children and to enable their healthy growth so they may become active contributors to society. Al Marzouqi added that the initiative extends beyond the city of Sharjah and includes all cities within the emirate in a comprehensive step targeting child-focused centres to ensure the message reaches children of all backgrounds. She noted that SSSD, through the Child and Family Protection Centre, continues to strengthen its efforts to protect children from all forms of abuse and neglect. This reflects the department's vision of building a safe and supportive community for children. She pointed out that the "I Have a Voice" initiative is one of the specialised programs that contributes to instilling the values of justice, equality, and dignity in children while fostering an ideal environment that guarantees their rights and supports their future aspirations. Focus on children's fundamental rights The program covers a series of core topics that focus on children's fundamental rights. These include the right to a dignified life and government support to meet their basic needs, as well as the right to justice, healthcare, and education to promote equality and ensure equal opportunities. It also addresses protection from abuse and exploitation, the promotion of community safety for children, and the right to express opinions and participate socially key factors in ensuring that children feel empowered and integrated. In addition, it offers special care for children with disabilities tailored to their unique needs and requirements. The program also ensures a balance between protection and leisure by promoting the right to play, recreation, and privacy.
Sharjah 24
17-02-2025
- General
- Sharjah 24
48 programs for SSSD during Sharjah Heritage Days
Naema Al Zarouni, the Director of the Social Education Department, shared that the department will offer a total of 48 activities, including 22 competitions and 26 workshops. The goal is to strengthen the Emirati national identity, provide educational experiences that promote community values, and engage the public in this important celebration of Emirati culture in Sharjah. Through these activities, the department hopes to showcase and share Emirati heritage with everyone attending. Al Zarouni outlined a program that includes various daily activities and events designed for all family members, emphasizing social and national values. One of the workshops focuses on designing the Emirati logo as part of an identity preservation initiative for children. Another workshop involves documenting the achievements of the late Sheikh Zayed within the Founding Father's Program. Additionally, a session on planting local plants is included in the UAE Environment Program, titled "The Value of Goodness Reaps Goodness." The program also encompasses a workshop on digital tools for heritage protection within the Digital Culture Program. Other programs include topics such as Ancestral Heritage, Work and Cooperation, Tolerance, Cultural Heritage, Leadership and Responsibility, Emirati Craftsmanship, Sustainability, Digital Culture, Marriage Traditions, and Creative Thinking Skills. Competitions are designed around values, heritage, cultural and national standards, family values, strengthening national identity, family security, and heritage protection, all aimed at fostering hope and optimism. The program features mental, physical, and heritage games as well. The Social Education Department is taking part in Sharjah Heritage Days to help strengthen national identity and share genuine Emirati values with young people. They are doing this through a variety of programs and contests that celebrate Emirati culture and heritage. These exciting events highlight the department's commitment to supporting the community and raising awareness about important values like tolerance, teamwork, and sustainability. This effort helps keep Emirati heritage alive, connecting our history to the present and future.
