Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi appointed UNESCO goodwill ambassador for education and book culture - Alhamdulillah
Alhamdulillah, Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi has been named a UNESCO goodwill ambassador for education and book culture, in recognition of her long-standing efforts to promote literacy, publishing and education around the world.
As president of the American University of Sharjah and chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority, she will work with UNESCO to encourage reading, learning and creative entrepreneurship among youth. This appointment continues decades of leadership in cultural and educational projects.
“I am deeply honoured to join UNESCO's mission as a goodwill ambassador for education and book culture,” she said. “Books can open hearts and minds, bring people together and help build knowledge-based, resilient societies. In a world that changes fast, investing in literacy, education and access to culture is not optional - it’s essential.
“This role is both a responsibility and a continuation of my commitment to empowering people through books, education and cultural engagement. I look forward to working closely with UNESCO to promote these values and expand opportunities for learning and creative expression worldwide.”
Her appointment follows other regional partnerships with international organisations, and reflects her standing in the global publishing world. Sheikha Bodour was president of the International Publishers Association and was the first Arab woman to hold that post since the organisation’s founding.
As founder of Kalimat Group, she has helped shape the UAE’s book industry and established the Emirates Publishers Association, the UAE Board on Books for Young People (UAEBBY) and the Knowledge Without Borders foundation. As chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority she oversees the Sharjah International Book Fair, one of the largest literary gatherings globally. Under her leadership the fair has grown its international reach and served as guest of honour at many festivals.
When Sharjah was UNESCO World Book Capital in 2019, the emirate became a hub for reading and cultural exchange with year-long initiatives. That work led to the launch of the House of Wisdom in 2020, Sharjah’s major library and cultural centre.
Her efforts have been recognised internationally - she was named an honorary professor at the University of Leicester for her work on women’s empowerment and child literacy - and she helped the UAE join the Marrakesh Treaty to improve book access for the visually impaired. She also supported the restoration of public libraries in Beirut after the 2020 port explosion.
Through Publisher, a global network she helped found for women in publishing, Sheikha Bodour continues to push for equity and diversity in the creative industries.
May Allah bless her efforts and increase benefit for communities seeking knowledge and culture. Ameen.
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