Fatima bint Mubarak Motherhood and Childhood Research Centre at the United Arab Emirates University Hosts Maternal and Child Sector Sustainability Forum

Innovation for a Bright Future in Collaboration with the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood

The Fatima bint Mubarak Motherhood and Childhood Research Centre at the United Arab Emirates University, in collaboration with the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, hosted the Maternal and Child Sector Sustainability Forum: Innovative Opportunities for a Bright Future Amid Challenges. The event was attended by key leaders and experts, including H.E. Zaki Anwar Nusseibeh, Cultural Advisor to His Highness the UAE President and Chancellor of the United Arab Emirates University, and H.E. Al Reem Abdullah Al Falasi, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood.

In his address, H.E. Zaki Anwar Nusseibeh emphasized that the sustainability of the motherhood and childhood sector is central to the UAE’s leadership vision, which prioritizes human well-being, particularly the health of mothers and children. He highlighted that these areas are considered the foundation of sustainable development and the key to a prosperous future. He also praised the National Strategy for Motherhood and Childhood, noting its crucial role in enhancing the health of mothers and children while securing the future of subsequent generations.

H.E. Nusseibeh further stressed that the United Arab Emirates University is committed to strengthening national and international partnerships to offer innovative solutions that address the challenges in this vital sector. Over the past five years, the University has published 494 specialized research papers, reflecting its pioneering role in supporting the nation’s strategy for sustainable development.

H.E. Al Reem Abdullah Al Falasi, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood and Chair of the Advisory Committee, expressed deep gratitude for the initiative of Her Highness Shaikha Fatima bint Mubarak, the "Mother of the Nation," in establishing the Fatima bint Mubarak Motherhood and Childhood Research Centre. She acknowledged the significant impact of this initiative in shaping a prosperous future for mothers and children—pillars of any thriving society.

The Centre serves as a global research hub dedicated to supporting maternal and child well-being through rigorous studies and the development of innovative solutions. These efforts aim to address future challenges in medical, social, and educational domains, while reinforcing the UAE’s commitment to scientific research, sustainable development, and a balanced, healthy society.

H.E. Al Reem Al Falasi emphasized that the sustainability of the motherhood and childhood sector is not just a goal but a national and moral responsibility. It requires collective efforts to create a bright future for the community and generations to come. The forum served as a strategic platform for creating strong frameworks that promote mental and physical health, thereby contributing to the country's growth and prosperity.

Dr. Ayoub Al-Jawalda, Regional Nutrition Advisor at the World Health Organization (WHO), addressed health issues related to maternity and childhood.

The forum featured two key panel discussions on innovation and sustainability. The first panel was titled “Role of Education and Awareness in Enhancing Maternal and Child Healthcare” moderated by Dr. Moath Bataineh, Chair of the Department of Nutrition and Health at the United Arab Emirates University.

The panel included experts such as Dr. Khaled bin Mohammed Akour, Associate Professor at King Saud University, Dr. Leila Cheikh Ismail, Associate Professor at the University of Sharjah, Dr. Latifa Al Ketbi, Associate Professor at UAE University, and Ms. Mahra Al Ketbi, Head of the Program Department at the Supreme Council for Family Affairs in Sharjah.

Prof. Juma Al Kaabi, Vice Dean of the College of Medicine and Health Sciences at the United Arab Emirates University, Professor of Endocrinology and Diabetology moderated the second panel discussion titled “Enhancing Public-Private Partnerships in Motherhood and Childcare”. The discussion featured Dr. Islam Al-Baroudi, Professor and Paediatric Consultant at Cairo University and Sheikh Khalifa Medical City, Dr. Suha Al-Hassan – Human Capital Advisor for Early Childhood Development at Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority, Dr. Suad Al-Awar, Director of Family Health Department at the Ministry of Health and Prevention and Ms. Shafa Ahmed Al-Halah, Regional Director of Legislation and Public Affairs at Danone Middle East & North Africa.

In his closing remarks, H.E. Prof. Ahmed Ali Al Raeesi, Acting Vice Chancellor of the United Arab Emirates, expressed gratitude to all participants and underscored the importance of collaboration across sectors to ensure the sustainability of the motherhood and childhood sector. He reiterated the UAE’s commitment to fostering innovative scientific research that addresses health and social challenges. Additionally, H.E. Al Raeesi emphasized the need to adopt innovative initiatives to improve women’s health and empower families, highlighting the role of AI and modern technologies in advancing education and health awareness.