Sheikh Sultan Bin Ahmed along with other dignitaries takes a tour of the various pavilions of IGCF.

Sharjah has established a communication channel called ‘Mabara’ which has helped settle debts of the citizens worth Dhs1.150 billion n the Emirate. This was revealed by Sheikh Sultan Bin Ahmed Bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and Chairman of the Sharjah Media Council (SMC), during his keynote speech at the opening of the 13^th edition of the International Government Communication Forum (IGCF 2024) held at Expo Centre Sharjah.

Speaking about the flexible approach of the Sharjah government, Sheikh Sultan Bin Ahmed said: “This is what has transpired in Sharjah; directives were given to government departments and institutions to open direct communication channels with the public as His Highness Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi noticed that these channels needed to be improved for the desired communication. “

“Thus, Sheikh Sultan ordered the launch of the 'Direct Line' programme on radio and television to provide live communication channels to the public. It was later observed that some cases could not be aired publicly, which led to the creation of a special communication channel called 'Mabara' for these sensitive situations. Through it, many cases of those in need and debtors were discovered, leading to the formation of the Sharjah Citizens Debt Relief Committee, which has covered over Dhs1.150 billion in debts. This is how, with the stroke of a pen, people's suffering ends,” said Sheikh Sultan Bin Ahmed

“This is the flexibility we seek in government work to solve people's problems urgently. I must also commend the UAE Federal Government for implementing initiatives to achieve the desired flexibility, most notably the Government Accelerators initiative and the Zero Government Bureaucracy programme. Therefore, today, we are in dire need of the flexibility that allows us to see others as we see ourselves,” Sheikh Sultan Bin Ahmed added.

The opening ceremony also featured a short film that highlighted global advancements and their significance in improving people's lives and creating opportunities for a dignified life through effective, flexible communication between governments and citizens, fostering progress and elevating the quality of life.

This edition of the IGCF focuses on enhancing the role of government communication in building resilient and sustainable communities. The 13th edition has brought together over 250 speakers and experts from across the globe to lead discussions on the future of communication across 18 stages.

The extensive agenda features more than 160 activities, including panel discussions, keynote speeches, 40 capacity-building workshops led by experts, youth-focused initiatives, and a research platform, all in collaboration with over 40 local, regional, and international partners.

Gulf Today, Staff Reporter