Sharjah Empowers Young Voices with New Shura Council Sessions

Post by : Bianca Suleiman

Sharjah, UAE: His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, the Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, officially inaugurated the 18th session for the Sharjah Children’s Shura Council as well as the 9th session for the Sharjah Youth Shura Council on Sunday at the headquarters of the Sharjah Consultative Council. This session commenced under the esteemed slogan “Serving the Community is Leadership.”

During his address, Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed articulated that these councils operate in alignment with the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, duly supported by Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi. He expressed immense pride in the active participation of Sharjah’s youth and children.

He further elaborated that this slogan embodies the essence of responsibility and community participation, reinforcing Sharjah's trust in its youth to deliberate on significant matters and provide valuable insights for the betterment of society and the nation.

The Deputy Ruler made it clear that holding a position in the councils is not merely ceremonial; rather, it is a genuine duty and a valuable learning experience. He emphasized that these councils serve as a platform for young members to cultivate their dialogue capabilities, teamwork skills, respect for diverse opinions, and leadership potential.

Additionally, he highlighted that nearly 20,000 voters played a part in selecting council members, illustrating the robust community endorsement for youth involvement in decision-making processes.

Sheikh Sultan urged members to voice their perspectives responsibly, participate fully in discussions, and put forth actionable recommendations for the future of Sharjah. He commended their efforts and wished them well on their parliamentary journey.

The ceremony commenced with the national anthem of the UAE and a recitation from the Quran, followed by the oath of allegiance taken by 60 members of the Children’s Shura Council and 80 members of the Youth Shura Council.

Hamid Saeed Al Zaabi, Chairman of the Children’s Shura Council, expressed gratitude to the leadership for empowering children and providing them a platform to contribute to community development. He stressed that children’s perspectives are vital for creating a brighter future and pledged commitment and loyalty to the nation.

Hamad Mohammed Ibrahim, Chairman of the Youth Shura Council, remarked that youth play an essential role in development and they will strive to convert ideas into tangible initiatives funding community welfare. He expressed appreciation to Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed and Sheikha Jawaher for their unwavering support of youth leadership.

The councils aim to bolster parliamentary skills among youth while nurturing dialogue, accountability, and civic participation. This initiative embodies Sharjah’s commitment to investing in its human capital and preparing the next generation of leaders.

Dignitaries in attendance included Sheikh Majid bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Sheikh Dr Khalid bin Humaid Al Qasimi, Sheikh Saud bin Sultan Al Qasimi, and Sheikha Jawaher bint Abdullah Al Qasimi, along with various other governmental representatives.