Sharjah Government Media Bureau’s new Ithmar program will train students in short-form video production, digital storytelling, and AI-powered content creation through hands-on workshops across Sharjah this summer.
WEBDESK – IMRAN MALIK – SGMB (COURTESY FOR IMAGES & NEWS)
The Sharjah Government Media Bureau (SGMB) is set to launch the eighth edition of its “Ithmar” media training program on Monday, continuing its mission to nurture young media talent and strengthen digital communication skills among students in Sharjah.
Organized by the Sharjah Press Club (SPC), the month-long initiative will bring together students aged 10 to 17 through a series of interactive workshops that combine theoretical learning with practical media training.
This year’s edition places a strong focus on short-form video production, reflecting the growing influence of digital and social media platforms in modern communication and storytelling.
According to SGMB, participants will collaborate with several government entities in Sharjah to create short videos related to their work and services, allowing students to gain hands-on experience while developing a deeper understanding of community institutions and public engagement.
His Excellency Tariq Saeed Allay, Director General of SGMB, said the “Ithmar” program continues to provide young people with opportunities to strengthen their media skills and communicate their ideas responsibly.
He noted that this year’s focus on short-form video reflects the rapid transformation of digital media and the increasing popularity of visual storytelling among younger audiences.
“Allay said the program’s practical component allows students to work closely with government entities and transform their ideas into accessible digital content that promotes knowledge and awareness across the community.”
He added that investing in students’ media capabilities means investing in a generation that can engage with digital platforms responsibly while understanding the importance of informed communication.
The first week of the program, scheduled from July 6 to July 9, 2026, will feature specialized workshops led by media professionals at multiple venues across Sharjah.
Training sessions will include workshops on news reporting, digital content creation for social media, photography and visual storytelling, as well as AI-assisted content production.
The opening workshop on “News Reporting” will be held at Gallery X in Al Majaz Amphitheater, followed by a session on “Creating Digital Content for Social Media” at Rain Room.
Participants will also attend “Photography and Visual Storytelling” at the Photography Gallery before concluding the week with a workshop titled “Capturing Attention: From Simple Ideas to Engaging Content with AI” at Al Majaz Studio.
The program will guide students through every stage of digital content production, including idea development, scriptwriting, filming, editing, and final production.
SGMB said the initiative also aims to build students’ confidence, improve teamwork and communication skills, and encourage the responsible use of digital media tools.
The latest edition will additionally include selected graduates from previous “Ithmar” programs who demonstrated strong interest in short-form video production, enabling them to receive advanced practical training and further refine their media skills.
