Sharjah Ruler's $6 Million Initiative to Digitize UNESCO's Historical Archive

In an impactful move aimed at preserving global heritage, His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the Ruler of Sharjah, has signed a groundbreaking agreement to digitize UNESCO's expansive global archive. This agreement, valued at $6 million and facilitated by the Sharjah Book Authority, was formalized during an event held at UNESCO headquarters in Paris. The event was graced by the presence of prominent figures including Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi and Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of UNESCO.

The Agreement's Significance

The agreement was executed by Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority, and Jennifer Linkins from UNESCO. This five-year project aims not only to preserve the invaluable documents within the archive but also to enhance their accessibility through digital means. It encompasses the digitization of a diverse array of materials, including books, manuscripts, audio recordings, and documentaries, thus safeguarding essential facets of our collective cultural memory.

During this ceremony, Sheikh Dr Sultan Al Qasimi took a guided tour of UNESCO's Library and Archive, where he observed a variety of significant collections. This included historic documents which unfortunately showed signs of deterioration, underscoring the urgent need for digitization.

The Size and Importance of the UNESCO Archive

The UNESCO archive is renowned as one of the most significant collections of institutional archives globally, chronicling nearly 80 years of historical records. With over 2.5 million pages of documents, 165,000 rare photographs, and extensive audio and video recordings, the collection captures pivotal moments that have shaped global cultural and educational landscapes. Notably, only about 5% of this archive has been digitized thus far, highlighting the immense potential and necessity for further digitization efforts.

Addressing the Challenge

Despite the undeniable significance of the archive, the ongoing digital transformation has been hindered by limited resources, logistical challenges, and technical constraints. This situation emphasizes the need for initiatives like that of Sharjah to expedite the digitization process. In its current state, approximately 95% of the archive remains undigitized, leaving an essential part of the world's heritage vulnerable and inaccessible to future generations.

Symbol of Sharjah's Cultural Leadership

Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi stated, "This grant symbolizes Sharjah's enduring commitment to preserving human heritage and protecting the world's memory. It underscores the essential role of knowledge in sustainable human development." The digital archive project sets out to enhance global access to knowledge, establishing a framework for international collaboration aimed at fostering both respect for past legacies and aspiration for the future.

Continuing Commitment to Heritage

Moreover, this initiative reflects Sharjah's leadership in advancing knowledge and cultural preservation initiatives, reinforcing its reputation as a global hub for the protection of heritage in the Arab world. It emphasizes the collective responsibility shared by institutions and nations in safeguarding the memory of humanity.

As the project unfolds, it promises to create new opportunities for researchers, academic institutions, and cultural communities worldwide, facilitating a dynamic exchange of knowledge and heritage. This significant undertaking by Sharjah will not only preserve vital historical records but also pave the way forward for future generations to learn from, and be inspired by, their rich global heritage.