SHARJAH: Several interactive and youth-focused initiatives have been showcased at the International Government Communication Forum  (IGCF) 2019, to highlight the 8th edition’s theme, ‘Behavioural Change Towards Human Development.’

As part of the two-day Forum at Expo Centre Sharjah, activities have revolved around ideating Sharjah’s future and implementing constructive behavioural changes in today’s youth.

Sharjah Events website, an initiative by the Sharjah Government Media Bureau, showcased an interactive map entitled “Tomorrow’s Sharjah…How Do You See It?”

The map acted as a link between the public and Sharjah’ entities and institutions.

Visitors wrote down numerous proposals about the city, which then appeared in specific locations on a large map.

Sharjah Events also held a competition for members of the community, where they expressed innovative ideas for the city’s future in an electronic game format.

“Through the interactive map displayed today, we hope to build a link between the citizens and government entities and encourage the public’s imagination. When people want to see something in Sharjah, but don’t know where to start, they can leave their suggestions with us. This vital connection between people and the government will surely create a better future for Sharjah. A small idea of today can become an important part of the city in the coming years,” said Amira Al Zarouni, Head of Sharjah Events Website.

Sharjah 2071, an electronic game launched in conjunction with Sharjah Department of eGovernment and Sharjah Children, provided an edutainment platform that encouraged positive behavioural changes within children. Utilising gamification technology, virtual characters created by children traversed through multiple challenges, impacted either positively or negatively by behavioural decisions taken during the game.

The “Sheikh Sultan Award for Celebrating the Spirit of Youth”, the first of its kind in the region, was launched by His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan Bin Mohamed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah.

Aimed at empowering the UAE youth by refining their talents, daily skills and will power, the award was open for citizens between 13 and 18 years of age.