Sharjah brings museums to inmates

Initiative aims to reform offenders and help them return to society

Prisoners in Sharjah will now have the chance to explore culture as collections from museums will be on display at the Sharjah Punitive and Correctional Establishments.

Organised by Sharjah Museums Authority (SMA), the ‘Treasures of Sharjah Museums’ initiative is aimed at reforming offenders and preparing them for life outside prison.

What’s on display?

The exhibition showcases a number of unique objects, including those from the collections of Sharjah Archeology Museum, Sharjah Heritage Museum, Sharjah Calligraphy Museum and Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilisation.

Items on display include a replica of an ancient camel figurine, an incense burner, writing instruments, heritage costumes, Arabian

perfumes and cupping (hejama) tools that were once used in holistic health therapy. Descriptions of the dsplayed items descriptions are in English, Arabic and Urdu. Manal Ataya, Director-General of SMA, said: “I truly believe that our programmes, exhibition and workshops that we have offered inmates over the last two years help them build confidence and skills needed in their transition to a healthier, more independent life once released.”

Partnership with police

Ataya added that the exhibition strengthens the partnership between SMA and Sharjah Police following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding in 2018. It aims to enhance the integration of inmates into society by offering them opportunities to gain new experiences and knowledge needed for rehabilitation.