Sharjah government officials have stressed on the importance of effective strategies to improve communication channels with the public during the 'Communication Chat' session held as part of the 9th International Government Communication Forum (IGCF).

Five officials from various government entities shared their communication practices and the experience in building true partnerships with the public at the session on Wednesday.

Major-General Saif Al Zari Al Shamsi, Commander-in-Chief of the Sharjah Police, said future government communication endeavours must focus on enhancing safety practices among the public through effective awareness campaigns, increased partnerships with leading media outlets, as well as increased efforts to raise awareness among non-Arab communities.

Maj-Gen Al Shamsi explained various types of communication channels used by the Sharjah Police to reach the audience, stressing on the Aoun initiative launched this year. The initiative enables the public to request traffic and police services through WhatsApp. He emphasised the important role of media in enhancing community and traffic safety and delivering essential awareness messages, while also giving community members the opportunity to be heard.

Dr Khalid Omar Al Midfa, Chairman of the Sharjah Media City (Shams), pointed out that since its inception in 2017, Shams has been dedicated to the development of media community not only in Sharjah, but across the UAE and in the region. To realise this goal, Shams has offered a wide variety of services and platforms to meet the needs of small and big businesses alike.

Marwan bin Jassim Al Sarkal, Executive Chairman of the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), highlighted the pressing need for government organisations to develop strategies that anticipate the rapidly evolving nature of government communication, including both conventional and contemporary channels, to convey information to the public.

Nada Askar Al Naqbi, Director-General of Sharjah Women's Sports, said: "The organisation seeks to highlight the role of women athletes in the UAE and encourage them to enter sport events and competitions regionally and globally. It also strives to establish a modern, integrated system to promote and develop women's sports in the emirate."

Khalid Jassim Al Midfa, Chairman of Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA), underscored the vital role of media in achieving the entity's missions and goals and raising Sharjah's profile as a leading tourist destination.

afkarali@khaleejtimes.com


Afkar Abdullah

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