The issue's coverage includes the inauguration by His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah of the redesigned Al Majarrah Park, which has become an interactive environment combining art and entertainment, embodying a community identity that connects art to daily life through monumental sculptures designed as visual bridges linking visitors to their memories. The issue also features His Highness's opening of the graduation ceremony for the fourth cohort of students from the Academy of Performing Arts at the University of Arts in Sharjah, reaffirming the Emirate's continued role as an oasis of knowledge and a beacon of thought and creativity.

International and knowledge-based presence

This issue dedicated significant space to news from the University of Sharjah (UOS), which continues to solidify its role in preparing future-oriented generations through impactful initiatives. These include the launch of the fifth Model United Nations conference, the announcement of the winners of the Youth Award for Scientific Research and Innovation, support for media pioneers at SPARK 18, and the launch of the "Digital Talents in Sharjah" initiative in partnership with the Artificial Intelligence Office. The issue also highlighted the "Guardians of the Nation" exhibition, inaugurated by His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, which serves as an artistic testament to the sacrifices made.

Regarding enhancing its global cultural presence, the issue emphasised Sharjah's efforts to extend the reach of the Arabic language to the heart of Europe through the opening of the "Sharjah Arabic Language Hall" at the University of Salamanca in Spain. It also noted the Sharjah Archaeology Authority's recognition as one of the top five projects in the "Natavan Award for Cultural Excellence" from the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (ICESCO). Furthermore, the issue highlighted Sharjah's participation as the first Arab Guest of Honour at the Warsaw International Book Fair, under the theme "A Tale of Letters... Between Two Civilisations," in the presence of Her Highness Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority. The magazine featured the "Al Faya Research Grant" initiative, with a budget of two million dirhams to fund scientific projects.

Quality initiatives

In the context of supporting innovation, the issue highlighted the launch of the "Publish Her" initiative's "Masarat" programme to support women in the publishing sector, and the launch of the "Self-Advocates" campaign by "Sharjah Humanitarian" for people with disabilities.

The issue also covered the theatrical scene, reporting on the ninth edition of the Dibba Al Hisn Duo Theatre Festival, with the participation of troupes from the UAE, Egypt, Tunisia, Syria, and Morocco. It also featured the Local Theatre Forum, which discussed the role of the Theatre Association in supporting the Emirati theatre scene, and specialised training courses organised by the Sharjah Theatre Department.

Additionally, the issue included coverage of International Museum Day, the Sharjah Maritime Museum's participation in the "Made in the UAE" exhibition, and the international success of the film "Urban Solutions for a Green World," which won two Platinum Remi Awards at the Houston Film Festival.

Pulse of poetry houses

In the “Poetry Houses” section, this issue highlights the intensive activities of the Sharjah Department of Culture’s poetry houses. It also dedicates significant space to the Sharjah Cultural Honouring Forum in both Morocco and Mauritania. The 27th edition, held in Rabat, celebrated four prominent Moroccan cultural figures, while Nouakchott hosted the 28th edition, attended by the Mauritanian Minister of Culture, to honor four leading figures in Mauritanian literature. This underscores Sharjah’s commitment to honouring Arab creators.

It is worth noting that this issue also includes a diverse collection of news covering the efforts of various institutions in Sharjah, thus presenting a comprehensive picture of the integrated cultural initiatives and the multifaceted nature of Sharjah’s cultural project.