United Arab Emirates University Holds the Second Forum on the Sustainability of the Motherhood and Childhood Sector

In Collaboration with the Fatima bint Mubarak Center of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood

Zaki Anwar Nusseibeh: Supporting the Mental Health of Mothers and Children Is a Strategic Investment in the Future of Universities

Al Reem bint Abdullah Al Falasi: Mental Health Is Closely Linked to Children’s Quality of Life and Family Stability; We Seek Sustainable and Tangible Impact

The United Arab Emirates University, in collaboration with the Fatima bint Mubarak Motherhood and Childhood Research Centre under the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, held the Second Forum on the Sustainability of the Motherhood and Childhood Sector under the theme “Mental Health – Towards a Supportive and Balanced Environment.” The forum brought together academics, experts, and specialists in mental health, childhood development, and social welfare.

In his opening remarks, H.E. Zaki Anwar Nusseibeh, Cultural Advisor to the UAE President and Chancellor of UAEU, affirmed that supporting the mental health of mothers and children represents a strategic investment in the future of universities. He noted that comprehensive mental care during childhood contributes to building stable generations capable of creativity and active participation in national development. His Excellency also emphasized the role of universities and research institutions in raising substantive humanitarian issues for serious scientific discussion and in forming effective partnerships that contribute to the development of policies and family-support programs.

H.E. Al Reem bint Abdullah Al Falasi, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood and Head of the Advisory Council of the Research Centre, stated that providing a supportive mental environment for children requires institutional commitment, integration of roles, and informed investment in knowledge and planning. She expressed her hope that the forum would produce practical outcomes that translate into applicable programs with sustainable and tangible impact.

She further explained that the theme of mental health is directly linked to children’s quality of life and family stability. She noted that the forum comes at a crucial time, highlighting the importance of professional, knowledge-based discussions aimed at supporting national priorities through a deeper understanding of existing challenges and available opportunities.

The forum featured two panel discussions. The first session, titled “The Psychosocial Well-being of Mother and Child: Between Care and Support,” was moderated by Dr. Suad Mohammed Al Marzooqi, Associate Provost for Student Affairs at UAEU. Panelists included Dr. Salwa Al Hosani, Consultant Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist at the American Center for Psychiatry and Neurology; Prof. Abdalla Hamid, Chair of the Department of Clinical Psychology at UAEU; and Dr. Fatima Al Mansouri, Consultant Psychiatrist specializing in women’s mental health and founder of the “Halek Le Hamek” virtual mental health platform. The discussion addressed the dimensions of psychological and social support and the role of health and educational institutions in promoting family stability and early prevention.

The second session, titled “Digital Well-being: Challenges and Solutions in the Child’s Environment,” was moderated by Prof. Hamid Alhaj, Consultant Psychiatrist at the University of Sharjah. Panelists included Dr. Latifa Al Ketbi, Assistant Professor of Early Childhood at UAEU; Amna Al Hosani, Child Protection Lead at the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority; and Prof. Leila Ismail, Associate Professor in the Department of Computer Science and Software Engineering at UAEU. The session highlighted the impact of the digital environment on children’s mental health and explored ways to promote safe and responsible use of modern technologies.

The forum concluded with a speech delivered by Prof. Aisha Al Dhaheri, Expert at the Vice Chancellor’s Office, who reviewed the key themes and major recommendations emerging from the sessions. She emphasized the importance of translating these recommendations into practical initiatives and programs that support the mental health of mothers and children and enhance the sustainability of this vital sector.