UNESCO concludes online workshop on Intangible Cultural Heritage and Sustainable Development in Sharjah

With the active participation of 23 attendees, the workshop explored the critical contributions of intangible cultural heritage to economic development, social cohesion, environmental sustainability, and peacebuilding. Drawing on successful examples from around the globe, the training also highlighted integrating cultural heritage goals and targets into the post-2030 development agenda, advocating for culture as a stand-alone development goal. 

Facilitated by Dr Maissoun Sharkawi, a member of UNESCO’s global network of facilitators trained to deliver capacity-building services under the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, the sessions provided an engaging and interactive learning experience. 

Reflecting on the workshop, Dr. Sharkawi noted, “The training was remarkably engaging, thanks to the energy and commitment of the participants. It felt truly interactive as examples of intangible cultural heritage were explored, highlighting their connection to multiple Sustainable Development Goals.” 

This marks the second training workshop organized by UNESCO for the International Centre this year. The Category 2 Centre, under the auspices of UNESCO, is hosted by the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, established following an agreement between UNESCO and the United Arab Emirates in December 2021.