SFD discusses cultural and social issues via "Reading Council"

July 07, 2025 / 5:57 PM

Sharjah 24: The Reading Ambassadors team at the Sharjah Central Finance Department recently hosted a new session of the "Reading Council" initiative. This initiative serves as a cultural gathering where a select group of readers, thinkers, and employees come together to discuss a wide range of literary, social, and cultural topics that are important to individuals and society.

Exploring crime and mystery literature

During this session, the focus was on crime and mystery literature. Participants shared their thoughts on why so many people are drawn to this genre, its history, and the key elements that make a great story. They also explored how plots and characters are created and discussed what the future might hold for this genre in the Arab world. Additionally, the conversation included blogging, emphasizing its role in sharing ideas, its benefits for mental health and understanding, and inspiring stories of how blogging has helped shape thoughtful societies.

The importance of continuous learning

Huda Al Yasi, who leads the Financial System Department and serves as the Secretary-General of the Reading Council, highlighted the Council’s dedication to fostering an open and engaging environment for discussing real-life issues. She stressed that reading is a powerful tool for learning and making positive changes in society. Huda mentioned, "The Reading Council is vital for the cultural growth initiatives adopted by our department. It gives participants a chance to explore new ideas, connect with enlightening experiences, and helps build a community that can express their thoughts with confidence and awareness. This reflects our commitment to supporting ongoing education as an essential part of both institutional and social growth."

Addressing real-life issues

The session also tackled the serious issue of bullying, discussing what it is and why it occurs. Participants considered whether bullying is something we learn from others or if it’s part of who we are, and they proposed practical ways to combat this problem. Additionally, they examined the topic of people-pleasing, looking into why some individuals feel the need to constantly seek approval from others, its effects, and when it’s okay to say "no." They offered useful strategies for breaking away from this habit.

In the segment on Artificial Intelligence (AI), participants explored what AI is, how it impacts our daily lives, and what role it may play in the future across various industries. They also addressed the ethical and societal challenges that come with advancements in this important field.