Sharjah 24: The Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) featured a conference on "The Reality and Impact of Reading Programmes for Children," presented by the Supreme Council for Family Affairs' Cultural and Media Office in collaboration with “Culture Without Borders”.

Aisha Othman, deputy editor-in-chief of Marami Magazine, moderated the discussion which hosted Maryam Al Hammadi, Director of Culture Without Borders, and Dr Wafaa Al Shamsi, an expert on children and young adults’ literature.

Al Hammadi discussed Culture Without Borders' efforts and initiatives to increase children's and parents' knowledge of the importance of reading, believing in the family's obligation to create and nurture readers.

Dr Wafaa Al Shamsi stated that they needed to reach out to families at home during the pandemic to provide suitable counseling for mothers and to promote various reading initiatives to attract youngsters.

The symposium drew a large audience of individuals interested in children's books and stories, including members of the public and visitors to the Sharjah International Book Fair.