As part of its International Museum Day celebrations Sharjah Museums Department (SMD) is organizing a series of scientific and entertaining events at the Sharjah Aquarium and Sharjah Maritime Museum external area under the theme ‘Museums in a Changing World − New Challenges, New Inspirations’.

Running from Friday 18 May to Sunday 20 May, SMD is presenting a rich program of diverse events and activities to mark International Museum Day.

SMD has engaged most its museums in the celebrations, which will be held in the external yard of the Sharjah Aquarium and the Sharjah Maritime Museum where the audience will get a chance to learn about various events and programs organized by the Department in collaboration with the Department of Interpretation and Education.

The Sharjah Calligraphy Museum is engaging in the celebration with a workshop on early writing tools, offering the audience an opportunity to learn about the changes that calligraphy has witnessed over time, as well as the different types of paper involved. During the workshop, a calligrapher will show the participants various methods of using paper and newspapers, as well as how to recycle used papers by removing the ink and reprocessing them.

Al Islah School is holding an exhibition on the development of the educational system from the traditional educational system, known as ‘katateeb’ through to our current modern system. Visitors to the exhibition will learn about the principles and teaching methods of the traditional system, as well as get an insight into the environment in which this system functioned; the clothes, writing tools, and even the types of seats that were used.

The Sharjah Science Museum is hosting a workshop on clean energy and preserving the environment. Participants can listen to a presentation on the telescopes that are used to clearly view the planets and moon and learn more about how the museum keeps up to date with the developments in the field of telescopes.

The Sharjah Discovery Centre will hold a workshop where the children participating will be making a light chandelier inspired by the idea of the Primitive lantern, in line with this year's slogan ‘Museums in a Changing World’.

The Sharjah Aquarium will present an introductory film on the Sharjah Aquarium’s achievements across various fields, including its many sustainable environment and awareness campaigns, as well as its cooperation with educational institutions, among others.

The Sharjah Maritime Museum will be holding an interview with father Saif, the builder of the traditional ship ‘Al Sama'a’, who will give a detailed explanation about the tools and materials used in building the ship, difficulties they faced, the stages involved in building the ship, and the time it took to complete.

Finally, the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization will be taking part in the International Museum Day celebrations with a presentation on its participation in the ‘Museums without Borders program.

Speaking on the occasion, Manal Ataya, SMD Director General said, "The world is witnessing countless changes with the arrival every new day. Modern technology has introduced numerous means to transfer ideas and exchange expertise and experience and has enabled us to get instant access to vast stores information and get into contact with people from all over the world via social networking sites. The Sharjah Museums Department, guided by the wise directives of the country's leadership, is actively working to develop its communication systems as per the highest international standards so that we may further enhance the emirate's reputation on the global arena."

"All our activities and events basically stem out from our strong belief that museums are the ideal learning environment and hence we always strive to highlight our rich history and cultural heritage as well as the developments our country has seen by introducing every new in art, culture and intellect," Ms Ataya said.

International Museums Day has been celebrated worldwide on 18 May every year since 1977, following an initiative by the International Council of Museums. Every year the ICM selects a main theme under which each museum organizes its activities. This year's theme "Museums in a Changing World” has gained a significant importance due to the major changes currently being witnessed by the world on all walks of life.