The key architect of the 10 principles, which seeks ensure the basic rights of children and youth from different cultures and exhibiting varied competencies without any discrimination.
As part of a presentation of international case studies, research, and projects, Dr Hessa Khalfan Al Ghazal, Executive Director of Sharjah Child Friendly Office (SCFO), outlined Sharjah’s journey as the region’s first UNICEF-recognised Child-Friendly City and briefed the audience on Sharjah’s Child Friendly Urban Planning project which aims to stimulate and involve children and youth in shaping the future of the emirate’s urban landscape.
Inclusive spaces
Conceived by SCFO, an affiliate of the Supreme Council for family Affairs in Sharjah, and the Sharjah Urban Planning Council (SUPC), in partnership with UNICEF and UN Habitat, the Child Friendly Urban Planning project calls for assimilating safe, playful, and stimulating everyday experiences in the emirate’s planning, design and management of projects, and addresses the needs of children by incorporating their ideas to create friendlier, healthier, and more inclusive spaces.
The campaign held on @sharjahchildfriendly is aimed at encouraging children to share their understanding and experience of playing through posting original creative videos on social media. It is open until the end of March with great prizes up for grabs.
According to Dr Hessa Khalfan Al Ghazal, Executive Director of Sharjah Child Friendly Office, ‘Children’s rights are indivisible; children cannot be given some of their rights and be deprived of others. Play is a fundamental right that every child should enjoy, as it is vital to both psychological and physical development.’
Dr Hessa added that play is also crucial in discovering and unleashing talents and capabilities and gaining essential life skills.
WAM The UAE is marking national Emirati Children s Day, with the Right to Play as its key theme.
The Arab League has congratulated the government and people of the United Arab Emirates, as well as Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Chairwoman of the General Women s Union (GWU), President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, and Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation (FDF) on the occasion.
In a statement, the League said the national day highlights the achievements made by the Supreme Council which have contributed to strengthening the protection and rights of children at all levels.