Sharjah: The third session of the Heritage Conference, organized by the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, continued for the second day, featuring numerous scientific sessions that delved into the state of oral traditions across several Arab nations and examined various research initiatives focused on documenting and preserving intangible cultural heritage.
According to Emirates News Agency, the conference also underscored the pivotal role of digital media in sustaining popular memory and ensuring the transmission of Arab cultural heritage to coming generations.
The conference's fifth session included a presentation by Mohammed Saeed Al Balushi from Qatar, who discussed various Arab models for maintaining oral heritage. Researcher Fatima Al-Mansouri highlighted the significance of Nabati poetry in the UAE as a vital oral record that chronicles traditional life, particularly diving and hunting excursions. Dr. Yahya Lotf Al Abbali addressed the challenges facing the preservation of intangible cultural heritage in Yemen, particularly amidst current adversities, and praised the efforts of Yemeni tribes in conserving and transmitting folklore. Dr. Amani Al Junaidi from Palestine elaborated on documenting Palestinian oral traditions, underlining their essential role in preserving national and cultural identity.
Further contributions came from Dr. Abdulaziz Al Musallam, President of the Institute and Chairman of the Conference, who presented research on mythical creatures in Emirati folklore, discussing the relationship between oral traditions and written records. Dr. Sayed Hamed Hariz explored Sudan's contribution to Arabic storytelling, while Professor Mohammed Saeed Al Balushi shared insights on the impact of social and technological changes on Qatar's storytelling traditions. Discussions also included Dr. Saif Al Badawi's examination of the transition of place names from oral to official records.
The conference also featured insights from Professor Aisha Al Hassan on the role of oral traditions in cultural preservation. Dr. Ahmed Al Naqbi discussed the relationship between narrative practices and intangible cultural heritage, while Professor Noura Al Kindi emphasized their importance in maintaining community identity. Dr. Adi Ould Adab analyzed Mauritanian proverbs, and Professor Mariam Al Mazroui highlighted the cultural significance of traditional irrigation systems.
During the eighth session, Professor Khadija Al Balushi led discussions on the challenges faced by traditional storytelling in the digital age. Dr. Hafsa Aboud's study focused on traditional medicine practices in northern Morocco. Dr. Afaf Abdelhafiz from Sudan addressed the risks of digital misuse of oral heritage, while Professor Fahad Al Maamari proposed strategies for preserving these traditions.
The session concluded with Dr. Mariam Al Maliki's presentation on the role of storytelling traditions in the production and preservation of cultural heritage, highlighting the ongoing efforts to safeguard these vital cultural elements.