SHARJAH (WAM)
H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, emphasised that the name Youth Energies encompasses many aspects. It was previously referred to as extracurricular activities that equip students with skills beyond academic knowledge, forming a proper scientific understanding.
This was stated during H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan's speech at the ceremony honouring the winners of the fourth edition of the "Sheikh Sultan Award for Celebrating Spirit of Youth", held this on Saturday, at the Al Badee Palace.
H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan pointed out that while he observed a decline in young minds, he hastened to find a way to nurture the intellects of youth. He explained that such programmes must start in schools to ensure an integrated approach that includes education and upbringing alongside sports and other activities that young people engage in throughout this year and previous years.
The Ruler of Sharjah noted that the number of participants in the award is increasing, affirming that those who belong to this award have impressed people with their achievements in scientific or complementary fields. He expressed hope that this award will continue to evolve and include many more participants, benefiting everyone.
H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan affirmed that the work in Sharjah focuses on human development. Over a quarter of a century, or 25 years, this means that attention begins with the nurseries spread throughout Sharjah, where students are cared for from birth. Additionally, there are activities aimed at supporting mothers during pregnancy and breastfeeding, demonstrating full care. He pointed out that the numbers are increasing while continuing to focus on enhancing education over a quarter of a century, which students experience from nursery until they graduate from university.
His Highness added, “The responsibility of the Rubu Qarn institution is not to intervene or direct matters related to nurseries and schools, but rather to have a programme that aligns with the established educational programme. As a result, the outcome is an individual who differs from others raised mostly on play and distraction. We notice in Sharjah the attention given to these energies that would have been wasted on mostly frivolous activities, transforming them into productive energies. We thank you all for your commitment to this programme, which is beginning to grow. We set standards for it and include students from various schools. We do not withhold the knowledge you possess; instead, we support those who wish to learn more and belong to this award, which has a programme that utilises most of the time for the benefit that sharpens the minds of youth.”
H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan addressed the importance of caring for students even during their university studies according to well-thought-out plans, stating, “We are trying to develop a complete individual in terms of knowledge and education, alongside their establishment in life. We guide them so that, upon completing their university education, they can pursue master's and PHD degrees and beneficial sciences. This process is not spontaneous but is organised through a structured programme. We notice that these scholarships, which number in the thousands, reflect our concern for educating this generation. The matters that require knowledge and expertise demand significant funding; however, on the other hand, we consider the costs of education to be modest. Those who truly value knowledge understand its worth. Knowledge is not merely words written on paper and notebooks; it resides in the mind. We do not rely solely on devices, and through this process and openness, we find that all our sons and daughters are aware of this endeavour.”
The Ruler of Sharjah spoke about the importance of family stability and its reflection on children, saying, “Every individual has a father and a mother and must have a stable home for their children's stability. Therefore, we strive to provide housing, healthcare, and suitable employment. Each person in Sharjah takes pride in having a salary that suffices for them and their family, allowing them to live a dignified life. We hope that this support not only benefits the family but also extends to their children and future generations.”
His Highness added, “Fifty years ago, someone said we started from scratch; we say we started from below zero, as families were uneducated, which impacted the students or individuals whose lives we aim to change. We sought to eliminate certain habits that adversely affect their lives, and things began to shift thereafter. God willing, we have built a righteous community based on faith and adherence to the noble religion. Following that, we hold onto their language, belonging, and valuable customs and traditions. All these elements are foundational principles upon which we build a conscious individual with a clear mind, for it is impossible to build on ignorance and delusion. Every troubled mind could change its condition if it adhered to its faith.”
H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan expressed his hope that everyone would be committed to their faith and Arab identity, saying, “We focus on these matters to shape the character that has put in effort from childhood to reach this level of knowledge and education, and this is the fruit of that effort. However, empty minds can be filled with all sorts of nonsense and evil ideas from various sources. A conscious, faithful heart does not allow any window to penetrate into its heart and mind. We say there are devices, most of which are meant for destruction, and we advise against wasting time on frivolous pursuits. Instead, seek what you lack in knowledge and understanding, and may everyone be fully aware of what they acquire for their minds.”
His Highness reviewed the pursuit of knowledge in previous days, stating, “In our youth, we did not have the means you have now. Knowledge and education were limited, but we sought it in all fields. I was among those who collected papers from used foreign newspapers and gathered them, searching through the English dictionary to gain more knowledge. You now have access to information on your phones and devices but choose what you lack in knowledge to refine your speech and develop your character.”
The Ruler of Sharjah emphasised the importance of caring for the Arabic language, referencing Sharjah's efforts and the work of linguists over seven years on the Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Language, a project that has eluded experts and modern technology. He also touched on his new project, the Comprehensive Arabic Encyclopaedia, which covers literature, arts, and sciences, advising the winners to focus on developing their writing and calligraphy, which are essential parts of the language.