Early childhood protection plan launched in Sharjah

Sharjah Private Education Authority (SPEA) organised a specialised training programme entitled “Methodology for Early Childhood Child Protection According to Stages of Sexual Development.”

The programme was held in cooperation with the Child Safety Foundation as part of SPEA’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the child protection system in private educational institutions and empower its staff to implement best preventive and professional practices.

The programme targeted 30 social and psychological specialists involved in child protection issues in private schools.

This initiative reflects SPEA’s commitment to developing the capabilities of specialised staff and enhancing their readiness to handle child protection issues with high efficiency and professionalism.

The programme included several specialised modules, covering interview and professional observation techniques, conditions for effective observation, mechanisms for framing and directing questions, gender classifications, identifying areas of intervention, and self-protection skills.

These modules aim to enhance participants’ ability to interact safely and professionally with children at different stages of their development.

The programme was implemented through four training workshops, totalling 30 training hours, with the participation of leading experts and specialists in child protection.

This contributed to strengthening the practical aspect, exchanging professional experiences, and supporting institutional preparedness in private schools.

The programme also focused on developing professional diagnostic skills and addressing cases of violence against children.

This was achieved by introducing participants to diagnostic interview techniques, diagnostic levels, mechanisms for preparing and implementing intervention plans, and analysing treatment methodologies.

These elements contribute to enhancing early intervention and improving the quality of response, in accordance with the highest standards of safety and protection within the educational environment. Recently, SPEA formed the School Activity Council for the 2025–2026 academic year.

The council has been created to improve the standard of extracurricular activities in private schools and to help students develop skills that will prepare them for the future.

It also aims to encourage a creative and engaging school environment while supporting the authority’s performance standard.

Along with upholding the authority’s performance standards, it also seeks to promote an innovative and engaging learning environment in schools.

The School Activity Council operates as a professional volunteer advisory body, bringing together a group of experienced activity specialists and educational leaders. SPEA provides direct support to the council, recognising the importance of school activities in shaping students’ personalities and life skills.

Ali Ahmed Al Hosani, Director-General of SPEA, emphasised that the council’s establishment reflects the authority’s commitment to building a comprehensive educational system.

He highlighted the value of extracurricular activities as a cornerstone in developing students’ character and preparing them for future challenges.

The council includes distinguished specialists in school activities and educational leaders from private schools, alongside a representative from SPEA.

The council’s role is to suggest tailored initiatives and programmes; promote creativity and innovation in extracurricular activities; build stronger connections with the community; and assess how these activities benefit both students and schools.

Last month, SPEA announced the winners of the 31st Sharjah Award for Educational Excellence, which witnessed remarkable participation and widespread interest, reinforcing the award’s success in achieving its objectives and promoting a culture of excellence in the educational field and the local community.

The number of users of the award’s online portal reached 2,486, who competed diligently in the various judging stages.

WAM