الشارقة 24:
The Sharjah Fisheries Authority has successfully concluded its participation in the 26th edition of the Sir Bu Nair Festival, held by the Environment and Protected Areas Authority in Sharjah at Al Hira Beach from 7 to 18 October. The event showcased a diverse programme aimed at promoting awareness of fish wealth and the UAE’s marine heritage, featuring various projects from the authority along with interactive workshops and discussion sessions..
Engaging the Community and Educating Young Minds
At the authority’s platform, there was substantial engagement from visitors, who learned about fish stock enhancement projects and had the opportunity to browse two informative publications: the “Aquaculture Handbook – Part One: Fish Farming” and the “Guide to Local Fish.” These resources are part of the authority’s ongoing efforts to disseminate knowledge and raise awareness about marine resources and their preservation..
Among the festival’s activities, the authority organised three children’s workshops entitled “Face Painting,” “Make Your Own Fish,” and “Glowing Coral.” These interactive sessions were inspired by marine life, enriching the overall experience for young participants..
The authority also hosted two discussion sessions, titled “Memories of the Sea” and “Pearls: Our Precious Treasure,” aimed at highlighting the UAE’s maritime heritage, reminiscing about the experiences of seafarers, and emphasising the significance of this legacy in the country’s history..
Preserving the Heritage of the UAE’s Seafarers
Ali Ahmed Abughazain, Chairman of the Sharjah Fisheries Authority, remarked that the Sir Bu Nair Festival serves as a crucial platform for reviving the history of the UAE’s seafarers and introducing younger generations to facets of their lives and experiences. He noted the authority’s commitment to providing activities that blend education with community interaction..
He expressed his profound gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, for his visionary support and significant interest in environmental protection and the preservation of Emirati heritage. This commitment was exemplified in His Highness’s 2000 decree declaring Sir Bu Nair Island a natural reserve, ensuring it remains a testament to this vision that seamlessly integrates nature conservation with pride in our rich history..
Chairman Abughazain concluded that this event provided an invaluable opportunity for direct engagement with the public, introducing them to the authority’s projects while offering interactive workshops for children and dialogue sessions that reflect the UAE’s maritime heritage. He extended his heartfelt appreciation to the Environment and Protected Areas Authority in Sharjah for their role in the successful execution of this festival edition, commending all involved parties and expressing eagerness for future collaborations in upcoming events and programmes..