Overview of UAEU's Second Forum on Motherhood and Childhood Sustainability

The United Arab Emirates University (UAEU), the nation's flagship higher education institution, recently hosted the Second Forum on the Sustainability of the Motherhood and Childhood Sector. Held on February 10, 2026, in Abu Dhabi, the event centered on the theme 'Mental Health – Towards a Supportive and Balanced Environment.' Organized in collaboration with the Fatima bint Mubarak Motherhood and Childhood Research Centre under the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, the forum brought together experts, policymakers, and academics to address pressing challenges in maternal and child mental health. This initiative underscores UAEU's pivotal role in bridging higher education with national social priorities, fostering research-driven solutions for family well-being.

Attended by high-profile figures including UAEU Chancellor H.E. Zaki Anwar Nusseibeh, the forum featured two key panel discussions that explored psychosocial support and digital wellbeing. These sessions highlighted the university's commitment to community engagement, aligning with UAE's vision for sustainable development in family sectors. As UAEU continues to lead in applied research, events like this exemplify how universities contribute to societal resilience through interdisciplinary dialogue.

UAEU's Fatima bint Mubarak Centre: A Hub for Maternal Research

Central to the forum was the Fatima bint Mubarak Motherhood and Childhood Research Centre at UAEU, established to advance studies on maternal and child health. This centre serves as a global research hub, developing innovative policies and programs to enhance family well-being. It has funded numerous student-led projects, including eight recent initiatives in November 2024 focused on early childhood education, Arabic literacy apps for young children, and digital tools for gestational diabetes management.

The Mutaba'ah Study, UAEU's landmark longitudinal research tracking over 10,000 mother-child pairs, provides critical data on health outcomes, informing national strategies. By hosting forums, the centre facilitates knowledge exchange between academia, government, and communities, positioning UAEU as a leader in higher education's societal impact. For academics interested in such interdisciplinary work, opportunities abound in UAE higher education.Discover faculty positions that drive real-world change.

Chancellor's Vision: Prioritizing Mental Health Support

H.E. Zaki Anwar Nusseibeh, Cultural Advisor to the UAE President and UAEU Chancellor, opened the forum emphasizing the imperative of mental health for mothers and children. He highlighted UAEU's role in creating supportive ecosystems, stating that 'supporting the mental health of mothers and children is foundational to national sustainability.' His remarks set the tone for discussions on integrating psychological care into family policies.

This aligns with UAEU's broader mission as the oldest university in the UAE, ranked among the top in the Arab region, where research informs policy. The chancellor's presence underscored higher education's partnership with entities like the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, amplifying university contributions to public welfare.

First Session: Psychosocial Well-being Between Care and Support

The opening session, moderated by Dr. Suad Mohammed Al Hosani, delved into 'The Psychosocial Well-being of Mother and Child: Between Care and Support.' Panelists, including Al Reem Abdullah Al Falasi, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council, and Ahmed Murad, explored dimensions of psychological and social support for families. Discussions covered the balance between welfare provisions and proactive interventions, drawing on real-world examples from UAE initiatives.

Key themes included early detection of mental health issues and community-based support systems. Participants stressed the need for tailored programs addressing cultural contexts in the UAE, where family structures emphasize collective responsibility. This session exemplified how UAE universities like UAEU facilitate evidence-based policy dialogues.

Insights from Esteemed Panelists on Maternal Support

Al Reem Al Falasi advocated for integrated services combining healthcare and social support, while Ahmed Murad highlighted community roles in stigma reduction. Prof. Haleama Al Sabbah and others shared perspectives on scalable interventions. These insights reflect UAEU's strength in convening diverse stakeholders, fostering collaborations that extend beyond academia.

• Holistic care models integrating mental health into primary services.
• Family involvement in child development programs.
• Cultural sensitivity in UAE's multicultural society.

Such forums position UAE higher education as a catalyst for social innovation. Aspiring researchers can engage via UAEU-affiliated opportunities.

Photo by Hoi An and Da Nang Photographer on Unsplash

Second Session: Navigating Digital Wellbeing Challenges

The second session addressed 'Digital Wellbeing: Opportunities and Challenges,' with Dr. Leila Ismail contributing expertise on AI and technology in family health. Panelists examined screen time impacts on children under three, parental decision-making, and tools for safe digital engagement. Amid rising device use, discussions focused on balancing educational benefits with risks like addiction and cyberbullying.

UAEU's research, including apps for child literacy, supports these efforts. The session called for digital literacy programs in schools and homes, aligning with national pacts for child online protection.Learn more on UAE digital initiatives.

Mental Health Statistics Shaping UAE Priorities

In the UAE, 23.9% of schoolchildren face mental health issues, while postpartum depression affects up to 35% of mothers in the first six months. Depression prevalence ranges 12.5-28.6%, underscoring the forum's timeliness. UAEU's Mutaba'ah Study reveals longitudinal trends, guiding interventions. These figures highlight the need for university-led research to inform policy, with higher ed playing a key role in training specialists.

Challenges include stigma and access in diverse populations, addressed through forums like this.

UAE's National Framework for Motherhood and Childhood

The Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood drives initiatives under Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak's vision, including the National Strategy. UAEU collaborates on research and forums, supporting goals like child protection and maternal empowerment. Recent projects fund innovations in health and education, reflecting higher ed's alignment with UAE Vision 2031.

UAEU's Research Innovations and Student Involvement

Beyond forums, UAEU funds student projects on maternal health, such as VR for autism therapy and nutrition apps. These embody experiential learning, preparing graduates for impactful careers. The centre's global hub status attracts collaborations, enhancing UAE higher ed's reputation.

• Mobile apps for child literacy and parental support.
• Digital tools for maternal health monitoring.
• Interventions for early childhood development.

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Higher Education's Role in Family Sustainability

UAE universities, led by UAEU, integrate motherhood research into curricula, offering programs in psychology, public health, and education. Forums like this train future leaders, addressing workforce needs in family services. As UAE advances gender balance, higher ed supports through scholarships and jobs.Explore opportunities.

Photo by Hoi An and Da Nang Photographer on Unsplash

Future Outlook and Actionable Recommendations

The forum recommended expanded mental health screenings, digital literacy campaigns, and research funding. UAEU plans more events, building on the first forum's innovation focus. Stakeholders urged cross-sector partnerships for sustainable impact.

For professionals, UAE higher ed jobs in research and policy await. Engage with faculty ratings on Rate My Professor or seek career advice.