Child Safety Forum unveils 3rd edition agenda ahead of launch

November 25, 2025 / 1:42 PM

Sharjah24: The Child Safety Department has announced the programme for the third edition of the Child Safety Forum, scheduled to take place on 26 November at Al Jawaher Reception and Convention Centre under the theme “Keep Their Innocence”.

The event is held under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairperson of Sharjah’s Family and Community Council, and will feature experts from federal, local, and international organisations. The Forum’s sessions will cover several key themes, including the family’s role in fostering a safe environment, empowering parents with positive parenting skills, strengthening religious and social values, and addressing modern challenges such as digital exposure, daily pressures, and children’s silence.

Opening session: ‘The world enters our homes… who is raising our children?’

Speakers include Dr Mohammed Al Kaabi, Head of the Sharjah Judicial Department; Dr Hind Al Bedwawi, Child Protection Specialist; Moza Al Shoumi, Vice President of the Emirates Child Protection Association; and family consultant Dr Khalil Al Ziyoud. Moderated by lawyer Ahmed Al Zarouni, the discussion explores the family as the primary educational anchor, emphasising the importance of values and language, as well as the psychological and legal aspects of child protection.

Second session tackles fear, silence and reporting harm

Entitled “Fear of Society: How Silence Becomes the Enemy”, the session features experts from the UAE and Kuwait, including Dr Noura Al Omair, Prof Dr Huda Al Khazimi, Dr Hind Al Bedwawi, Amina Al Rifai, and Major Nasser bin Amer. It addresses fear as a barrier to disclosure, cultural perceptions of “shame”, violence, bullying, and the vital importance of reporting abuse.

Final session highlights fathers as generational changemakers

The concluding session, “Fathers Who Make a Difference Across Generations”, led by experts from the Child Safety Department, the Family Development Foundation and Middlesex University Dubai, discusses the evolving role of fathers, conscious discipline, the impact of digital distractions, and practical approaches for safe and responsible digital parenting.

Forum aims to advance positive, protective practices

The Forum aims to produce actionable recommendations to enhance child safety, support recovery from trauma or harm, and reinforce the family as the frontline of protection. It also promotes conscious parenting, open communication, and community-wide responsibility for nurturing a balanced and secure generation.

Event sponsors and supporters

Sponsors include UAE BARQ (Platinum) and Sharjah National Oil Corporation (Gold). Silver sponsors are Sharjah Roads and Transport Authority, Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA), Alef Group, and Wasl Channel, with media support from the Sharjah Contact Centre and Al Serh Media, alongside backing from the Sharjah Department of Agriculture and Livestock (SDAL).