AUS Seminar Highlights Youth and Media’s Role in Cultural Heritage Preservation

Sharjah, The Gulf Observer: The American University of Sharjah (AUS), in collaboration with Anasy Media, hosted an insightful seminar titled “Conveying Cultural Significance: The Role of Youth, Media and Communication in Valuing and Protecting Cultural Heritage.” Held under the patronage of Sheikha Alyazia bint Nahyan Al Nahyan, First Extraordinary Ambassador for Culture for the Arab League’s Educational, Cultural and Scientific Organization (ALECSO), the event emphasized the vital role of youth and media in safeguarding cultural heritage.

The seminar brought together thought leaders, academics, and practitioners to explore innovative ways to foster appreciation for cultural heritage through media and storytelling, highlighting youth engagement and creative approaches.

Opening Remarks and Key Discussions
Dr. Varkki Pallathucheril, Dean of the College of Architecture, Art and Design (CAAD) at AUS, inaugurated the seminar, stressing the media’s significant influence in bridging generations and celebrating cultural identity.

Mohammed Mamdouh, Assistant Professor of Architecture and Design at CAAD, delved into the region’s storytelling traditions, noting their enduring impact on cultural literacy and cinematic narratives.

The seminar also featured a visual showcase by Dr. Zaki Aslan, Professor of Practice at CAAD, who presented a film from the Community Museums Project in Sudan. The film highlighted the role of museums as dynamic spaces for community connection and cultural preservation.

Youth Empowerment and Cultural Innovation
Dhekra Ouali, Cultural Advisor to the Cultural Ambassador for ALECSO, outlined the Arab Cultural Guide Programme, launched in 2022 by Sheikha Alyazia bint Nahyan. The initiative focuses on empowering youth and preserving cultural identity through innovative educational and cultural strategies.

Ezzeldin Hajjaj, winner of the Cultural Guide Competition for Sustainable Ideas and Projects, presented his interactive project for enhancing Arab museum infrastructure. His approach underscored the potential of digital tools to bridge cultural gaps and promote intercultural understanding.

Haifa Beseisso, a content creator and YouTuber, shared her journey in leveraging social media to celebrate Arab culture. She highlighted impactful workshops aimed at inspiring youth to engage with and promote their cultural heritage.

A Collective Vision for Cultural Preservation
The seminar reinforced the importance of youth-led initiatives and the integration of modern communication tools to value and protect cultural heritage. By combining traditional storytelling with digital innovation, the event showcased pathways for fostering stronger community ties and ensuring the longevity of cultural practices.

The collaboration between AUS and Anasy Media marks a significant step toward encouraging youth participation in cultural heritage preservation, underscoring the enduring relevance of culture in an interconnected world.