Annual programme enables university students to interface with global specialists in government communications 

Sharjah, UAE, March 12, 2017:  The Sixth Edition of the International Government Communication Forum (IGCF), which is being held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohamed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, will once again feature the Green Chair Initiative – a special programme designed to groom young Emiratis in global best practices in the sphere of government communications.

Organised by the Sharjah Government Media Bureau (SGMB), the Green Chair Initiative will comprise six pre-selected undergraduate media and communication students from the University of Sharjah, Ajman University, and Higher Colleges of Technology. 

Each undergraduate will be assigned to one of the six key sessions of IGCF that will take place at the Expo Centre Sharjah on March 22 - 23, 2017. In line with the theme ‘Societal Participation…Comprehensive Development’, each student will have the opportunity to represent society through fruitfully contributing to discussions and offering perspectives in an effort to find practical solutions to social problems.

Each Green Chair participant will also be allowed to pose one question to speakers on the panel on issues related to the youth. The session’s moderator or speaker will likewise have the chance to ask each student about his/her opinion on the topics under consideration.

Jawaher Al Naqbi, Manager of the International Government Communication Forum said: “Since its inception in 2013, the Green Chair Initiative has emerged as a coveted platform for Emirati students specialising in advanced communications, where they can interact directly with global experts from around the world and gain insights from their experiences. It helps them enhance their communication skills and infuses them with the confidence needed to engage with VIPs and renowned speakers.”  

She added: “The youth’s participation will also deepen their interest in public issues, especially those related to sustainable development on a local, regional and international level, which is the focus of this year’s forum.” 

The Green Chair Initiative, a regular part of each annual edition of the IGCF, derives its name from the colour on the UAE flag that reflects the ethos of growth, prosperity, and progress – essential elements in the success of future generations. It also represents the nurturing, growth and blossoming of university students, who will subsequently become leaders of tomorrow, and contribute to the progress of their communities.