Which City is named by UNESCO as the World Book capital?
VerifiedAnswer: Sharjah
Explanation:
Sharjah, one of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates, was designated as the UNESCO World Book Capital for 2019. This prestigious title is awarded annually by UNESCO to cities that demonstrate exceptional commitment to promoting books, reading, and literacy among their citizens.
The World Book Capital program was established by UNESCO in 2001 to recognize cities that actively promote books and reading through various initiatives and programs. Each selected city holds the title for one year, starting from World Book and Copyright Day on April 23rd. Sharjah earned this recognition through its outstanding efforts in building a culture of reading and knowledge sharing.
What made Sharjah stand out was its comprehensive approach to promoting literacy and books. The city has invested heavily in educational infrastructure, including numerous libraries, cultural centers, and educational institutions. The emirate is home to the famous Sharjah International Book Fair, which is one of the largest book fairs in the Arab world and attracts millions of visitors annually.
During its tenure as World Book Capital, Sharjah launched several initiatives to further strengthen its position as a hub for literature and learning. These included expanding public libraries, organizing literary festivals, supporting local authors and publishers, and implementing programs to encourage reading among children and young adults. The city also focused on making books more accessible to diverse communities through multilingual collections and digital resources.
Sharjah's selection as UNESCO World Book Capital reflects its long-standing commitment to education and culture. The emirate has consistently prioritized knowledge and learning as fundamental pillars of its development strategy, making it a fitting choice for this international recognition that celebrates the power of books in building more inclusive and sustainable societies.
