Sharjah: The Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) has revealed plans to host the Sharjah NYU Executive Programme at the American University of Sharjah (AUS) from April 14 to 17. The event, under the patronage of Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the SBA, marks the first time this exclusive programme will be held outside the United States, in collaboration with SBA, AUS, and New York University (NYU).
According to Emirates News Agency, the programme is aimed at executives and CEOs in the publishing industry, focusing on enhancing their skills to develop international publishing strategies. It will also delve into the applications of artificial intelligence in marketing, contracts, data analysis, and design. Participants will gain insights into advanced content development and sales strategies, aligning with SBA's mission to advance the global publishing industry.
The announcement was made during SBA's participation in the New Delhi International Book Fair (NDWBF) 2025, which took place at the Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, India, from February 1 to 9, 2025. SBA's involvement in the fair underscores Sharjah's commitment to cultural exchange and the promotion of Emirati and Arabic literature on the international stage.
SBA showcased Emirati authors' works at its pavilion during the NDWBF, emphasizing the UAE's vibrant creative industry. The authority reiterated its support for authors, translators, and distributors through initiatives like the Publishers Conference, Booksellers Conference, and the Sharjah International Book Fair Translation Grant.
Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA, highlighted the vision of positioning Sharjah as a global knowledge hub and enhancing cultural dialogue, reflecting the vision of H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi. He also emphasized the importance of expanding cooperation in publishing, translation, and distribution, and the significance of Arabic literature on a global scale.
Al Ameri noted that under the leadership of Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi, SBA continues to enhance cultural communication and the publishing sector. The NDIBF serves as a crucial platform to strengthen ties with the Indian publishing industry, facilitating new opportunities for Emirati publishers.
Mansour Al Hassani, Director of Publishing Services at SBA, remarked on the importance of equipping publishers with modern skills required in the AI era. He emphasized the significance of professional development programmes in advancing the publishing industry. Al Hassani highlighted that hosting the programme in Sharjah signifies international recognition of the city as a cultural hub and publishing destination, reinforcing SBA's dedication to empowering publishers globally.