World Humanitarian Day, which is observed every year on August 19th, has been marked by the Sharjah Department of Statistics and Community Development (DSCD) in collaboration with ‘Light Mark’ on Wednesday with visits and mementos for Sharjah’s blue collar workers. The event was designed to raise awareness about the Sharjah Census 2015, scheduled to begin in October.Sheikh Mohammed bin Humaid Al Qasimi, Director of DSCD was among those who participated along with census staff and members of ‘Light Mark’ who toured several areas in Sharjah, including Al Taawun, Al Qasba and Al Khan meeting construction workers, cleaners, and those working in petrol stations, to give them mementos bearing the slogan of the Sharjah Census 2015.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Humaid Al Qasimi said, “We are marking World Humanitarian Day in recognition of the role played by our blue-collar workers. We are fortunate in Sharjah that all segments of the community work together to develop our society and move it forward. On this day, we appreciate efforts by blue-collar workers who perform manual jobs that seem to be minor professions at first glance, but ones that are essential for us nevertheless.”Sheikh Mohammed bin Humaid Al Qasimi said that the census will include all segments of society and that therefore it was necessary to raise awareness among every nationality living in the Emirate of Sharjah to ensure their effective participation. The DSCD Director praised the role played by ‘Light Mark’ in making this event a success and bringing joy to workers and employees at their workplaces and sites.
The event was sponsored by ‘Light Mark, a humanitarian initiative to raise self-esteem and confidence and promote community engagement. Launched in 2011 by photographer Aisha Mohammed Al Muhairi, the initiative works with people with special needs, and volunteers to assist those with special needs, and since inception the team has taken part in several events in the UAE.The World Humanitarian Day is an international event endorsed by the UN General Assembly to recognize those who face danger and adversity in order to help others. This day aims to highlight efforts by aid workers who carry out live-saving activities and humanitarian services in recognition of their role in human and community building. It is also dedicated to renewing the call for collective work to deal with the challenges of the present and the future, and for building and development of human societies all the time.In February, His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, issued an Emiri decree No.7 of 2015 on conducting a general census of the population, infrastructure, housing and commercial establishments in Sharjah. The census, based on UN best practices, will help set ambitious goals for the social, economic, and cultural development of the country.