Sharjah continues to place child welfare at the heart of its development agenda, according to recent statements by Sheikh Sultan Bin Ahmed Bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and Chairman of the Judicial Council.
During his visit to the Kanaf Centre, Sheikh Sultan emphasized that protecting children remains a top priority. The Kanaf Centre, located in Barashi, Sharjah, provides integrated legal, psychological, and social support to young victims of abuse. It remains the first of its kind in the region.
Sharjah child protection efforts are reflected in Kanaf’s model. The centre brings all key child protection stakeholders together. This includes law enforcement, judiciary, education, and social services.
Officials accompanying Sheikh Sultan included the Commander-in-Chief of Sharjah Police, the Chairperson of the Social Services Department, and leaders from judicial and educational bodies. These officials toured the centre and reviewed its systems.
Sheikh Sultan highlighted that Sharjah child protection efforts are not just bureaucratic procedures. He described child safeguarding as a fundamental civilisational duty. He reiterated Sharjah’s vision of holistic child care rooted in dignity and trust.
The Chairman said the centre meets international standards. It addresses the psychological and social needs of children through coordinated services. These include criminal investigations, psychological evaluations, and therapeutic care.
Sharjah child protection efforts also extend to the wider community. The Kanaf Centre has supported over 35,000 children and 20,000 guardians. More than 6,600 professionals have participated in training and response initiatives.
Additionally, the visit revealed that nearly all children in public nurseries have benefited from awareness sessions. Workshops have reached thousands of families across Sharjah.
The initiative was launched under the direction of Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher Bint Mohammed Al Qasimi. It remains a cornerstone of Sharjah’s mission to create a secure environment for its youngest residents.
