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SHARJAH / WAM
The online training course, entitled “Structural Conservation of Built Heritage,”
organised by the ICCROM Regional Centre in Sharjah (International Centre for the Study of the Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property), kicked off on October 19. The course, which will run from 19th October to 10th November 2024, has attracted 275 participants from 24 countries in the Arab region and worldwide.
The training course aims to educate participants about the importance of structural conservation in the integrated conservation process and provide a comprehensive framework for understanding, evaluating, and addressing the complexities of structural
conservation for heritage buildings following crises. It encourages participants to showcase their projects on ICCROM’s platforms, promoting wider dissemination of knowledge and best practices in structural conservation.
The course also contributes to strengthening the capacities of heritage institutions in the member states by qualifying youth teams and addressing expertise gaps through practical training and project implementation. The course provides participants with the knowledge and skills needed to manage conservation projects effectively and raises critical questions related to structural conservation.
Architect Anwar Sabik, manager of the course and Programme Officer (Training and Field Projects) at the ICCROM Regional Centre in Sharjah, stated, “This course is part of the training and capacity building program at the ICCROM Regional Centre in Sharjah. The program includes academic research qualification through a Master’s Program in Cultural Heritage Conservation Management implemented in partnership with the University of Sharjah and practical skills training through seasonal training courses.” He also mentioned that “the course sees significant Arab and regional participation, with trainees attending from various institutions and projects dedicated to preserving cultural heritage from 24 countries in the Arab region and worldwide.”
The training course comes when the region faces complex challenges due to damage caused to humans and the environment by natural and human causes. Many tangible cultural heritage components have been damaged, which poses a real threat to their structure and survival.
Furthermore, a significant loss of knowledge regarding heritage preservation methods, techniques, and technologies has occurred due to the deterioration of heritage institutions, the decline of state infrastructure in many areas, brain drain, cessation of training, and discontinuation of expertise transmission. The expertise and skills required for structural consolidation of damaged heritage have become highly needed. This training course is part of ICCROM’s efforts to enhance heritage protection, disaster management, and first aid in times of crisis.