Sharjah, 11th March 2021: The Environment and Protected Areas Authority (EPAA) in Sharjah inaugurated the Muslim scientists section “Golden Stamps”, in the Sharjah Natural History and Botanical Museum, on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the opening of the museum, where was developed to highlight the Islamic scientists who excelled in botany. The vision behind the department was formed through comprehensive scientific and artistic research.
Her Excellency Hana Saif Al Suwaidi, Chairperson of the Environment and Protected Areas Authority was present at the opening, in addition to EPAA staff. The opening included the Natural History and Botanical Museum team reviewing an informative video about the museum, as well as then presenting the development plans that the team seeks to implement during the coming years.
Highlighting the role and efforts of Muslim scientists
Her Excellency Hana Saif Al Suwaidi said, “The authority is keen to translate the vision and directives of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council, Ruler of Sharjah, in the world of the environment in a way that contributes to protecting and preserving biodiversity. Additionally, we are dedicated to highlighting the role and efforts of Muslim scientists throughout history in the world of plants, through initiatives like the Islamic Garden and this new Golden Stamps section. We endeavor to show our appreciation for, and educate visitors to the museum on, the contribution to the development of contemporary science and technology in the Muslim world, as well as inspiring the youth. “
She pointed out that the section begins with an introduction to the golden age of Muslims and their beneficial contributions to society and humanity as a whole, and then lists the Muslim scientists who have excelled in botany throughout history, with details on their most important achievements. Following this, the section navigates the practical aspect of agriculture, the establishment of the art of pharmacy, and concludes with some of the herbs that Ibn Al-Bitar mentions in his book.
The idea of creating the section and making other development plans was based on a set of visions of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, which he stated upon the opening of the museum – namely that the museum communicate through modern methods to visitors which inspired EPAA to “Golden Stamps.”
Test your knowledge
The opening of the Muslim Scientists section was accompanied by the opening of a new educational and entertaining game “Test your knowledge”, which was created in the museum. The game allows visitors to test their knowledge and what they have learnt from their visit to the museum. Targeting ages 9 and over, up to 12 visitors can play at one time.
In addition, the Sharjah Natural History and Botanical Museum tells the story of plant life millions of years ago and includes ten exhibition halls detailing life on Earth since its inception. There are displays and collections of fossils, real meteors, mummified animals and an introduction to the desert ecosystem, in addition to a botanical garden that includes nearly 100 variations of native plant species.
It is a distinctive landmark that provides visitors with the opportunity to learn about the history of natural life in the Arabian desert through its collections, films and interactive shows, and provides the opportunity to gain knowledge about the natural and geological history of our planet and the region, and knowledge about desert plants and animals and their role in the wider ecosystem.
The Environment and Protected Areas Authority (EPAA) in Sharjah seeks to protect the environment, natural reserves, wildlife and their biodiversity through scientific studies and research. The authority publishes educational awareness material, implements policies for environmental awareness and programs, and launches specialized campaigns in the field of environmental awareness and education.
