Prisoners praise cultural initiative that put ancient artefacts on show in Sharjah’s jails
Prisoners in Sharjah learnt a thing or two about the UAE’s history when they were allowed to attend an exhibition of some incredible artefacts.
Inmates across the emirate were encouraged to visit the exhibition organised by Sharjah Museums and which was held at correctional centres.
On display were objects that reflected Islamic civilisation and the UAE’s rich heritage, archaeological wealth and accomplishments in calligraphy.
Tools used in hijama therapy, which was in vogue during the time of the Prophet Mohammed, were among the artefacts that drew a lot of curiosity.
The alternative treatment, also known as wet cupping, involves making small incisions in the skin before placing suction cups on the cuts, purportedly to detoxify the body and improve circulation.
Also on display were replicas of ancient objects including a camel figurine, incense burner, writing instruments, heritage costumes and Arabian perfumes.
Information about the exhibits was available in Arabic, English and Urdu.
“The exhibition inspired me to do my own gallery of these objects,” said Palestinian prisoner Mohannad, 31, who is serving a two-year sentence for using drugs.
“I’m a professional photographer and used to work for a big private company in the entertainment sector.”
He said such positive initiatives not only entertained and educated prisoners but also encouraged them to follow the right path.
“The tour took me to another world and made me think about how I lived my life before, and how my future should be,” he said.
Another inmate, Marwan, said he was unaware that such artefacts were displayed in Sharjah museums.
“I am an Emirati and I never knew about these objects,” he said.
Marwan, 30, who is close to completing a two- year sentence for drug use, said he learnt a lot about the UAE by visiting the exhibition.
“I honestly learnt more about my country’s heritage in prison than I did while outside,” he said.
“Once out, I will take my brothers to Sharjah Heritage Museum or Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilisation.”
The exhibition has inspired another prisoner, Mohammed, 23, to read more about the UAE.
“I was truly surprised when we were taken to see it,” said the Palestinian, who is serving a life sentence for selling drugs.
“Such a beautiful show – I didn’t expect a thing like this would be done in prison.
“It has provoked me to think, to read and to do better things with my long time here with the options provided.”
The exhibition, which is scheduled to run until December 31, is part of Sharjah Museums Authority’s social responsibility programme.
It was introduced in response to an agreement signed with Sharjah Police in 2018 to educate prisoners.
Brig Ahmad Shuhail, director general of Sharjah’s correctional facilities, said the aim was to give inmates hope and to educate them about UAE culture.
“We used to send them to museums but due to the pandemic, it was decided the exhibition would be held here,” he said.
“This is one among many educational activities, workshops and programmes offered to prisoners as part of our co- operation with Sharjah Museums Authority.”
In a one-month course held last May by Sharjah Calligraphy Museum, 30 prisoners were taught the basics of Al Roka and Al Diwani Arabic writing styles.
Manal Ataya, director general of the Sharjah Museums Authority, believed the initiative would help inmates become better people.
“I truly believe that our programmes, exhibitions and workshops offered to inmates over the past two years help them build the confidence and skills needed in their transition to a healthier, more independent life once released,” she said.
The prison exhibition was staged in compliance with coronavirus precautionary guidelines.
The tour took me to another world and made me think about how I lived my life before, and how my future should be MOHANNAD
Prisoner from Palestine