Sharjah24: Responding to its young visitors’ vibrant enthusiasm and palpable thirst for knowledge, the 15th Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival (SCRF 2024) offered them an unforgettable journey into the past with the “Ibn Majid’s Compass” workshop. The engaging session combined the art of ancient navigation with modern sustainability practices, inviting children to build their own compass using recycled materials.

Led by certified trainers Reham Al Haddad and Ismail Al Ahmad, the workshop demonstrated the mechanics of compass-making and imparted vital lessons on environmental conservation. As each participant built their compass, they also delved into the practical applications of directional science. 

The engaging activity sparked new curiosity in its young attendees to continue on their exploratory paths.

The hands-on workshop also served as a portal to the rich maritime heritage of the Arab world. Children were captivated by tales of Ahmad bin Majid, the legendary Arab navigator whose work in maritime exploration laid the groundwork for future work and major discoveries in the field. Through stories of his brave voyages and pioneering innovations, the workshop highlighted the significant contributions of Arabs to maritime science and global navigation.