Bodour Al Qasimi Chairs SBA Board Meeting, Prioritizes Digital Transformation to Enhance Sharjah’s Global Literary Influence
Sharjah, November 10, 2024
The recent meeting of the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) board, presided over by Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, took place alongside the 43rd Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF 2024). This gathering of esteemed board members provided a critical platform to discuss the SBA’s strategic objectives aimed at bolstering its international presence and nurturing partnerships within the Emirati publishing community.
Sheikha Bodour opened the meeting with heartfelt thanks to His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, crediting his visionary leadership as the driving force behind the authority’s initiatives in cultural diplomacy. Under his guidance, the SBA continues to expand its mission of promoting Emirati literature and enhancing its global footprint, underscoring Sharjah’s role as a vibrant cultural nexus in the Arab world.
A noteworthy highlight from Sheikha Bodour’s address was the establishment of the Arab Cultural Institute in Milan, an innovative venture that aims to bridge Arab cultural heritage with a wider international audience. The SBA is now planning to set up similar institutes in significant global cities, envisioning a web of cultural connections that would foster a deeper understanding of Arab art, literature, and traditions within the context of an increasingly interconnected world.
An integral aspect of the meeting focused on the SBA’s commitment to digital transformation as a pivotal element of its strategic roadmap. Sheikha Bodour articulated the essential role of digital advancements in elevating the reach and efficacy of SIBF and other SBA initiatives. “In an age defined by swift technological progress, harnessing these advancements is vital to expanding our global visibility,” she asserted. Digital transformation would not only streamline operations but also enrich the experience for participants and audiences alike, ensuring that the literary contributions from Sharjah gain the necessary recognition on the world stage.
During the meeting, board members reviewed the strategic foundations established in previous sessions and celebrated significant accomplishments that have marked the authority’s recent endeavors. These include the successful hosting of various literary events such as the Booksellers Conference, the Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival, and the Sharjah Animation Conference. Additionally, the Sharjah Children’s Book Illustration Exhibition stood out, as it showcased the creative talents of emerging artists and authors in the Emirati literary scene. Notably, Sharjah’s active participation in international book fairs has further solidified its status as a leader in promoting cultural exchange and dialogue.
As the discussions progressed, the board members shifted their focus toward future initiatives designed to enhance the international allure of the SIBF Awards. They are keen on launching specialized publishing programs aimed at cultivating expertise and skill development for Emirati publishers. These initiatives are poised to empower the next generation of literary professionals, ensuring that they are equipped to thrive in the global publishing industry. By investing in talent development, Sharjah aspires to become a veritable hub for creativity and literary richness, contributing significantly to the global cultural landscape.
In conclusion, the third board meeting of the Sharjah Book Authority set the tone for ambitious and forward-thinking strategies that promise to elevate the profile of Emirati literature and enhance its presence on the global stage. Under the dynamic leadership of Sheikha Bodour, the SBA is well-poised to navigate the complexities of the digital age while remaining firmly committed to its foundational mission of fostering cultural dialogue and understanding through the power of books.
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