Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, Minister of Culture, reiterated the UAE's dedication to fostering a culture centred around science and knowledge. He highlighted the Ministry's efforts to translate the nation's vision, set forth by its wise leadership, into tangible actions aimed at nurturing intellectual growth and providing an enabling environment for knowledge acquisition.

In statements to the Emirates News Agency (WAM), Sheikh Salem emphasised the significance of "Reading Month" as a pivotal opportunity to preserve the UAE's cultural, intellectual, and knowledge-based achievements and build an exemplary model for others to follow. He urged entities to initiate sustainable efforts that promote the culture of reading and ensure it is a priority on the annual agenda of both the public and private sectors.

The Sheikh Salem underscored the Ministry's strategic focus on enriching the cultural and educational landscape of the UAE, with a particular emphasis on empowering future generations with the requisite knowledge and skills. He highlighted the role of creative centres across the Emirates in organising diverse cultural and community-oriented events, workshops, and seminars to disseminate knowledge and foster discussions on Emirati heritage and national identity.

Sheikh Salem stated that the Ministry works according to a clear strategy to create distinctive initiatives to revive interest in reading and restore its status and capabilities among community members.

He noted that the ministry, in collaboration with various local entities and institution, has developed diverse cultural programmes, including events and activities targeting various segments of society.

Creative centres across the country will organise various cultural and community events. Workshops, seminars, and book exhibitions will be held to disseminate knowledge to all segments of society, and knowledge sessions will address Emirati heritage, national identity standards and their role in the country's ongoing development.

Regarding support for local writers and authors, he outlined the Ministry's initiatives to elevate the cultural and literary scene within the UAE. These include programmes such as "Creative Publishing", a multi-pronged initiative that supports publishing works by Emirati and Arab authors across various genres.

The initiative aims to enrich the UAE publishing and content arena by issuing 100 books in various fields. It also supports public benefit associations by providing office spaces in creative hubs across the UAE.

The Ministry has also launched the "National Grant Programme for Culture and Creativity," providing financial assistance to Emirati artists and creators to enhance their creative endeavours in cultural and creative industries.

The Minister underscored the UAE's unwavering commitment to nurturing a vibrant cultural landscape, promoting intellectual growth, and empowering its citizens to contribute meaningfully to society through knowledge and creativity.

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