SHARJAH, 2nd May, 2025 (WAM) -- The Supreme Council for Family Affairs (SCFA) in Sharjah received Sana bint Mohammed Suhail, Minister of Family, where they discussed ways to develop the social and family work system in the UAE through a strategic partnership that goes beyond traditional coordination to the stage of creating a real impact.
The meeting was attended by Sheikha Jawaher bint Abdullah Al Qasimi, Director-General of the Rubu' Qarn Foundation for Creating Future Leaders and Innovators; Moudi Al Shamsi, Head of the Family Development Department (FDD) and its Branches; Iman Rashid Saif, Director-General of SCFA Health Promotion Department; Hanadi Al Yafei, Director-General of the Child Safety Department; Mona Al Hawai, Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the Friends of Kidney Patients Association; and representatives from the Ministry and the Council's departments.
The meeting included a review of the most important initiatives being implemented by SCFA departments and their most notable achievements, including the establishment of the Family Court, the launch of the Family Strategy in the Emirate of Sharjah, the "Kanaf" Child Protection Centre, and the Literary Association. It also highlighted the role of health-supporting associations in spreading health awareness.
The two sides emphasised the importance of integration between the UAE's local and federal sectors as a fundamental pillar for strengthening work in the social sector and achieving sustainable development in society. Through integration, efforts are unified, and resources are directed strategically and effectively to support various society segments.
Minister Suhail explained that she was honoured to meet with the leaders of SCFA in Sharjah, where she found an outstanding model of institutional and social work that embodies the UAE’s vision of empowering families and strengthening their cohesion and sustainability.
She added that cooperation with SCFA reflects the directives of the wise leadership to build strategic partnerships that advance social work to more effective and innovative horizons and establish a new phase of coordination and integration in serving families and society.
She affirmed the ministry's commitment to develop qualitative initiatives and strengthen supportive legislation and policies, which will consolidate family stability, protect the social fabric, and prepare generations capable of preserving national identity.
Minister Suhail also reviewed the ministry's strategic direction, national priorities, and key implementation milestones during the first year of its establishment, as well as its qualitative initiatives. These initiatives focus on developing and implementing policies, strategies, and legislation that contribute to building stable and cohesive families, enhancing their role in sound upbringing, consolidating national identity, and disseminating positive values and behaviours in society.
Al Shamsi stated that this visit contributes to achieving an integrated system of social care that reflects a commitment to placing people at the heart of development. This supports the directives of H.H. Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Wife of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah and Chairperson of the Supreme Council for Family Affairs. This cooperation contributes to having a positive impact on the lives of individuals.
Iman Saif explained that this partnership supports the efforts of the department and health-supporting associations, represented by the Breastfeeding Friends Association, the Diabetes Friends Association, Friends of Arthritis Patients Association, and the Kidney Patients' Friends Association, in spreading awareness and promoting daily healthy behaviours.
Al Yafei emphasised the constant endeavour to build an integrated protection wall around every child, based on the Health Promotion Department's goal of achieving an informed society and a safe child. The Department also believes that child protection is a societal responsibility, and through the Department's mission, it seeks to raise awareness among society members about the importance of protecting children from neglect, abuse, and exploitation.
Latifa Al Darmaki, SCFA Deputy Head of the Cultural and Media Office, said that culture is a stronghold for protecting national identity and promoting authentic family values. This cooperation aims to strengthen the presence of the Emirati family as a conscious, visionary force capable of interacting with changes with confidence without losing its roots.