The programme comprises two phases. The first phase involves compiling a database on the health of Sharjah government employees, followed by the development and implementation of recommendations. The second phase comprises a range of initiatives that include an awareness campaign for employees through workshops, messages, and educational video clips to ensure easy access to the targets. The programme also includes a "Wazn" challenge to inspire employees to lose weight in a healthy way.
The HPD, in partnership with the University of Sharjah, the Department of Human Resources, and the Department of Statistics and Community Development, is currently working on the second phase of the programme, which focuses on four main areas: healthy lifestyle, work environment, workplace safety, and organisational culture. This phase involves studying the standards for a healthy work environment, taken from the World Health Organization and amended to suit Sharjah government institutions.
The second phase also marks the launch of an integrated guide for the "Wazn" programme, aimed at achieving healthy workplaces that support and enhance employee health. The guide comprises 12 standards that focus on the surrounding work environment, prevention and reduction of occupational accidents, improvement of the psychological and social work environment, community participation, physical activity during working hours, healthy nutrition, smoking cessation, referral to primary health care, maternity and paternity support, reduction of exposure to secondary risks, emergency and disaster preparedness, and support for individuals with special needs (elderly/people with disabilities). This guide represents a new achievement, being the first of its kind in the region, and supports the objectives of Sharjah's strategy as a healthy city, while also reflecting the administration's commitment to providing a healthy work environment for Sharjah government employees.
Iman Rashid, Director of the Health Promotion Department, emphasized that “Wazn” is one of the many projects, programs and initiatives launched by the department to strengthen Sharjah’s efforts to be the first healthy city in the region and the world. She pointed out that the programme aims to support Sharjah Government employees and motivate them to adopt healthy lifestyles and nutritional patterns to contribute to reducing obesity rates and preventing associated diseases. She also emphasized that the programme aligns with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, that community development requires the combined efforts of those in positions of responsibility and citizens alike, so that everyone is partners in the process of achieving community development, through achieving healthy workplaces in Sharjah government institutions.
Creating healthy habits among government employees reduces the symptoms of obesity and associated stress, which in turn leads to the protection of employees from diseases. It also enhances productivity and encourages employees to take initiative and innovate, thereby raising services to the highest levels.
Finally, Iman Rashid extended her deepest thanks and gratitude to Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Supreme Council for Family Affairs, wife of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, for her tremendous efforts to transform Sharjah into the first healthy city in the region and the world. She also thanked the University of Sharjah, the Department of Statistics and Community Development, and all partners whose efforts contribute to achieving the administration’s vision of providing a healthy, safe, and integrated life for the individual and society.
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