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Sharjah is now world's first 'Child-Friendly City'

Sharjah - Unicef accorded this title to Sharjah for successfully new international requirements and criteria

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In a ground-breaking achievement for the UAE, Sharjah has been named a 'Child- Friendly City' (CFC) by Unicef in recognition of its outstanding efforts and accomplishments in the protection and promotion of children's rights.
The accolade comes just three years after the emirate was named 'Baby-Friendly City' by the UN and World Health Organisation.
Sharjah has been crowned as the first city in the world to receive the UN's prestigious title after successfully meeting the new international requirements and criteria launched by Unicef's global CFC initiative and its new brand identity last month, to ensure the fulfillment of children's rights under the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
The announcement was made during a special session for Sharjah's children and youth held at the Consultative Council of Sharjah, in the presence of His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, and Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Baby-Friendly Office.

Why Sharjah was selected The selection of Sharjah was based on a range of specific criteria which included that every child is treated respectfully and equally by society and all bodies and authorities. Other stipulations stated that children have the right to grow up in a safe and clean environment where they feel safe and secure, have access to basic services, can play, learn and grow and where their voice is heard and matters. The views, needs and priorities of children and young adults must be taken into consideration while developing legislation, policies, programmes and budgets for children and youth and every child must be afforded equal opportunities to enjoy family life, play and have entertainment.

Dr Sheikh Sultan, who received the official accreditation from Unicef, said: "Our key goal has been, and always will be, to provide the sound foundations for a society where everyone can participate in shaping a future that fits their ambitions and ours. And in spite of the technological evolution and changing tools of labour, it is the humans who will determine the direction and progress of societies and civilisations." He thanked everyone who contributed to this achievement.
Addressing the children and youth, Sheikh Sultan stated: "Today, we are here for you and will always work for you. I want you to know that every effort undertaken by Sharjah is a responsibility for us and a fundamental right for you. And we will always strive to achieve more. This is why we established the Sharjah Children Shura Council and the Youth Shura Council, where you can be a major influence on your society and enhance your loyalty to the nation."
afkarali@khaleejtimes.com

We feel proud to live in Sharjah, say kids

Six youngsters expressed their pride during a special session for children and youth held at the Consultative Council of Sharjah on Monday in the city's achievement as the world's first Child-Friendly City, according to Unicef's new standards.
Khalid Hafedh, member of the Sharjah Youth Consultative Council who suffers from hearing and speech impairments, said in sign language: "I am extremely happy because I live in Sharjah - a city where we feel that we are truly loved, respected and appreciated. Sharjah is home to schools and sports and leisure clubs where I can communicate with my peers though I can neither speak nor hear. I hope that Sharjah will continue spreading awareness about our needs and carry on with its efforts to ensure that all buildings and institutions, schools and public places are child-friendly and conducive to children with disabilities."
Anta Ariana Zaman, a student at Victoria International School of Sharjah, said: "I have participated this year in many workshops at the school where we learned about cybersecurity and safety. My friends and I really enjoyed our time during these workshops because we were playing games and having fun while learning. I suggest organising more of these workshops at all schools and for children of all ages to allow them to learn how to protect themselves and be there for their friends when they need help."
Rashed Al Suwaidi, a member of Sharjah Children's Shura Council, said: "Sharjah always offers us numerous options to have fun and enjoy entertainment activities. I like sports and play football with my schoolmates in the school and in the public park in our area. I hope that other outdoor activities are included in the school curriculum."
Amaan Shad, a student at Victoria International School of Sharjah, said: "In Sharjah, we always go to fun activities and events with our parents where we can learn and play. My parents can also enjoy their time without being worried about us. Our school also organises many sporting and recreational events throughout the year and they ask us to invite our parents to attend and participate in them."
Fatima Faraj Al Amiri, a member of Sharjah Children's Shura Council, said the council is the best thing that Sharjah offers children. "The council provides us with a perfect platform to express our ideas and talk freely about our needs. Words cannot describe how I feel when the issues we discuss at the council are given priority by officials, or when I read in newspapers that some ideas have been approved on the grounds of our recommendations." He also suggested that each school in Sharjah should have a council where students can share their opinions about their school, area and city.
afkarali@khaleejtimes.com