Sharjah Department of Statistics and Community Development (DSCD) has taken an innovative approach to connecting to children and youth, who represent a substantial part of the emirate’s population, by curating and publishing a collection of short stories written by them. The book titled comprises 16 short stories by young authors describing the department’s activities from their perspective.

Launched at the Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival (SCRF 2021), the anthology is an initiative by DSCD to help the young writers showcase their talents. The children were given a brief to weave stories around their perception of the department’s endeavours.

The book is an attempt to mobilise children to take an active interest in community activities. It also aims to unleash their latent talents and enable them to take on strong leadership roles. Through such activities, DSCD aspires to give a platform to children whose voices, needs and priorities must be taken into consideration to build inclusive, happy and sustainable societies.

Taking place at the Sharjah Expo Centre from May 19 – 29, under the theme ‘For Your Imagination’, SCRF 2021 will bring 537 activities, which will be organised in both in-person and online formats, strictly in line with the UAE’s health and safety protocols.