Cultivating Future Leaders: Sharjah's Commitment to Children's Parliamentary Education
In a compelling movement toward fostering youthful leadership and civic engagement, the Sharjah Children Foundation has recently organized an impactful series of workshops designed to instill parliamentary culture among children. Under the overarching theme of “Community Service: Leadership,” this initiative welcomed 60 new members from various community centers across the emirate of Sharjah. The workshops, setting a robust foundation for nurturing the next generation of leaders, aimed at equipping these young individuals with vital skills essential for effective participation in communal life and governance.
Understanding Parliamentary Culture
At the forefront of these workshops was His Excellency Ayman Othman Al Barout, Secretary-General of the Arab Parliament for the Child (APC). He facilitated a session titled “Parliamentary Culture,” which delved into the fundamental principles that govern parliamentary operations. Participants engaged in discussions around the structure and functioning of a parliament, emphasizing the pivotal role that scientific research, critical thinking, and constructive dialogues play in shaping informed leaders.
Al Barout’s workshop served not merely as an educational session but as an essential framework for fostering an understanding of civic duties among young attendees. The insights gained during this workshop are crucial, as they form the bedrock for the development of interpersonal and procedural skills required in parliamentary settings.
Mastering Communication Skills
In addition to parliamentary foundational knowledge, another workshop titled “Speech and Effective Communication Skills” further supported the participants’ growth. Focused on enhancing verbal and non-verbal communication skills, this session taught children the importance of body language, tone modulation, and other facets of effective expression. Participants learned to align gestures and facial expressions with their spoken content, thus creating a compelling and engaging communicative presence.
Moreover, developing the ability to listen actively was another key topic of discussion. The workshop emphasized fostering a culture of positive interaction, which is integral not only within parliamentary settings but also in everyday interactions.
The Vision for Future Leadership
Khawla Al Hawai, Director of Sharjah Children, articulated the underlying objectives of the workshops, asserting that they embody the Foundation’s aspirations to partner with the community in nurturing knowledgeable and responsible generations. “The skills we provide these new members are designed to empower them to serve as a voice for their peers, articulating their opinions and concerns to decision-makers,” stated Al Hawai.
The initiative aims to instill a culture of consultation and dialogue, principles that are essential in cultivating a generation capable of making positive societal contributions. By prioritizing these elements, Sharjah Children seeks to create a legacy of informed citizenship among its youth.
Collaborations Augmenting Educational Experiences
The synergy established between the Sharjah Children Foundation and the APC enhances the educational experiences available to participating children. Al Hawai highlighted that this cooperation not only enriches participants’ understanding of parliamentary processes but also broadens their leadership skills and knowledge horizons significantly. The exposure to diverse experiences encourages a holistic perspective which is invaluable in a rapidly changing world.
Since its inaugural session in 1997—launched under the visionary guidance of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah—the Sharjah Children Parliament has held steadfast in its mission to provide children with a platform where they can voice their concerns and opinions, mirroring real-life parliamentary practices.
A Wholesome Engagement
The response from the new members during the workshops was overwhelmingly enthusiastic, underscoring their eagerness to shoulder the responsibilities of representing their peers. This engagement signals a hopeful outlook for the future, as these children are poised to contribute to the community with newfound knowledge and skills, ensuring a more informed and participative citizenry.
In an age where active participation and informed dialogue are paramount, initiatives like that of the Sharjah Children Foundation serve as crucial stepping stones toward nurturing responsible and engaged citizens. The workshops signify not merely an educational endeavor but a vital investment in the future of society, cultivating leaders who are equipped to navigate the complexities of governance and community service.
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