Experts at the Sharjah International Book Fair 2025 emphasize the importance of schools engaging families at the first indication of a student’s behavioral or academic issues, rather than waiting for them to worsen.
The session titled “Family and Education… A Partnership to Shape the Future,” organized by the Sharjah Emirate Advisory Council, gathered members of the Sharjah Consultative Council (SCC), education specialists, and sociologists to discuss enhancing collaboration between schools and families to boost children’s wellbeing and success.
Dr. Alaa Al Taie, Associate Professor of Sociology at the University of Sharjah, highlighted that a child’s emotional expression and problem-solving skills start at home, but schools are crucial in identifying early signs.
Stay informed with the latest updates. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels.
“While the family is foundational, it requires empowerment in education, socialization, and communication,” she stated. “Schools should contact families at the initial sign of a problem, not wait until it’s too late. Parental involvement is key to resolving issues.”
Sharjah Consultative Council members concurred that open communication between schools and parents should become standard.
Dr. Ahmed Saleh Al Naqbi emphasized that when teachers are hesitant to share concerns, vital information about students’ wellbeing may be lost.
“If certain behaviors or challenges emerge among students, schools must communicate openly with families,” he said. “Withholding information due to hesitation or fear increases the risk. Early dialogue helps us prevent rather than react.”
Saeed Matar Al Tuniji, Chairman of the Family Affairs Committee at the SCC, echoed this sentiment, stating that collaboration between home and school is essential for future generations.
Saeed Matar Al Tuniji, Chairman of the Family Affairs Committee. KT Photo: Waad Barakat
“When discussing children, we’re really talking about the future,” he said. “By establishing the right foundation now, we nurture individuals equipped to tackle life’s challenges. Families, educators, and even the media must work together.”
Al Tuniji also addressed the role of technology and AI in children’s lives, urging families and schools to teach students about safe and balanced use.
“We live in a technology-driven world. Students use AI and online tools daily, so guidance, awareness, and monitoring from both parents and schools are crucial,” he said. “Online safety requires shared responsibility.”
Now in its 44th year, the Sharjah International Book Fair, organized by the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), remains one of the region’s largest cultural events. This year’s theme, “Tales of Letters,” celebrates reading, education, and interdisciplinary dialogue, featuring over 2,000 publishers and hundreds of sessions with writers, educators, and experts worldwide.
To enhance visitor access, the SBA expanded transport services with the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), introducing new bus and marine routes connecting Dubai, Sharjah, and Ajman to the Expo Centre Sharjah.
