Upon their arrival, they were welcomed by Dr. Khawla Abdul Rahman Al Mulla, Chairperson of the Family Affairs Authority and Secretary General of the Supreme Council for Family Affairs in Sharjah, along with Modhi Al Shamsi, Head of the Family Development Department; Iman Rashid, Director of the Health Education Department; Hanadi Al Yafei, Director of the Child Safety Department; and Asma Hassouni, Director of the Media Office of the Supreme Council for Family Affairs. This visit was part of a series of field visits aimed at establishing institutional cooperation in serving the community.
During the visit, the achievements of the Supreme Council for Family Affairs across its various departments were showcased. Dr. Khawla Al Mulla began by emphasising the importance of such visits in enhancing cooperation and exchanging experiences. She highlighted Sharjah's excellence in numerous areas and stressed the necessity of sharing its successful practices with other emirates. Dr. Al Mulla noted that the decision-making process in Sharjah is notably swift, owing to the close relationship with His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and His Highness’s direct involvement and interest in all matters concerning Sharjah families. Additionally, she acknowledged the dedication of Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Supreme Council for Family Affairs, in closely following and attending to every detail related to family affairs in Sharjah.
Modhi Al Shamsi elaborated on the role of the Family Development Department and its branches in fostering cohesive families and a stable society. The Department focuses on drafting and proposing legislation that benefits families and society in various social, familial, and educational aspects. She highlighted the implementation of numerous awareness programmes and the availability of a family consultation section accessible to all. Al Shamsi also mentioned that the Department has submitted many proposals to His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, aimed at enacting laws to address societal issues. One such proposal is the inclusion of social and psychological workers in schools to help solve and manage students' problems.
Iman Rashid discussed the role of the Health Education Department in promoting health awareness within the community. She also highlighted the contributions of health-supporting associations, including Friends of Cancer Patients, Breastfeeding Friends, Friends of Kidney Patients, Friends of Diabetes, and Friends of Arthritis Patients. These organisations continuously run various programmes, campaigns, and workshops aimed at spreading health awareness among community members.
Hanadi Al Yafei highlighted the "Child Safety Department," initially launched as the "Child Safety Campaign" to raise awareness about the importance of child safety and protection. In response to the growing need for awareness campaigns and programmes focused on child safety, Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi established the Child Safety Department in 2018. Under her generous directives, the "Kanaf" Children’s Home Centre was also established in Sharjah. This specialised centre aims to provide comprehensive legal, psychological, and social support to children who are victims of physical abuse and exploitation, coordinating efforts with partners and relevant authorities to ensure the well-being and protection of children.
Professor Asma Hassouni discussed the Media Office of the Supreme Council for Family Affairs, outlining its objectives, powers, and its crucial role in developing strategic media plans.
Dr. Moza Al Shehhi emphasised the importance of these visits, highlighting the need for their continuation to ensure the integration of efforts, cooperation, and the sharing of expertise and experiences.
Najla Al Shamsi echoed this sentiment, commending the Supreme Council for Family Affairs for its diverse and rich experience and its active community role through various programs. She emphasised the importance of sharing these successful experiences with other institutions across the emirates.
At the end of the meeting, it was agreed to maintain ongoing communication about the proposals discussed during the visit and to explore the best ways to implement them.
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