As part of the 13th International Government Communication Forum (IGCF 2024), organised by the Sharjah Government Media Bureau under the theme “Agile Governments… Innovative Communication,” the Children’s hosted a panel discussion titled “What is the Solution to Children’s Content Challenges?” The session, in collaboration with the United Arab Emirates University, aimed to highlight ways to develop children’s skills and provide tailor-made content for them.

The panel featured Khawla Al-Hawai, Director of Sharjah Children, and Enas Yacoub, an animation director and Ashraf Younis, head of MBC3, MBC Action, and Saudi Sports channels, with media professional Alaa Al Banaa moderating the discussion.

Khawla Al-Hawai emphasised the importance of developing children’s skills through the support of governments and institutions. She praised the efforts of the UAE in providing meaningful and safe content for children, highlighting the initiatives of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and his wife, Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher Bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Supreme Council for Family Affairs in Sharjah,  to support Sharjah Children in delivering content that balances education and entertainment, fosters values and ethics, and equips children with essential modern skills.

Enas Yacoub discussed AI’s role in children’s content, noting that its impact on young minds and whether it can replace human creativity remains unclear. She also stressed the importance of parental supervision in selecting appropriate content for children and avoiding unconstructive material.

Commenting on animated content, Yacoub noted that today’s cartoons try to strike a balance between education and entertainment, aligning with the needs of today’s children who have access to vast sources of knowledge. She commended the valuable ideas and content offered by platforms such as Shahid and MBC for Kids.

Ashraf Younis, from MBC3, pointed out that the channel seeks to offer content that enriches children’s minds and meets their aspirations. He added that children today are more intelligent and aware of global events, necessitating the production of engaging and meaningful content. He called for strengthening collaboration between the public and private sectors to establish regulations and policies that contribute to creating a safe environment for children.

The session also explored the role of families in selecting suitable content for their children and ensuring it aligns with traditions and customs. The panelists emphasised that proper upbringing supports parents in their quest to have their children self-monitor the content they watch. The discussion concluded that television and streaming platforms remain windows for children to explore new worlds, underscoring the importance of paying attention to the quality of the content provided.