The Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) has formed a partnership with Invest bank to create a children’s storybook aimed at enhancing financial literacy among young readers. This initiative is part of SBA’s ongoing efforts to encourage cultural awareness in youth and will be developed in collaboration with the Sharjah Publishing Sustainability Fund (Onshur), a significant program that supports sustainable publishing in the UAE.

The agreement was signed during the 16th Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival by Iman Ben Chaibah, Director of Strategic Initiatives at SBA, and Humaida Al Khalsan, Head of Corporate Affairs and Marketing at Invest bank. The signing ceremony was attended by Ahmed Bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA, and Edris Al Rafi, CEO of Invest bank.

Under this partnership, Invest bank will sponsor the production of a storybook targeted at children aged eight and above. The book will introduce key financial concepts in a simple and engaging manner and is set to launch at the upcoming Sharjah International Book Fair, with the support of a UAE-based publisher who is a graduate of the Onshur program.

Ahmed Bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA, emphasized that this partnership aligns with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah. He stated that the initiative aims to integrate books into children’s daily lives while providing them with tools to ignite their curiosity and deepen their understanding.

Al Ameri further noted that the partnership underscores the importance of financial literacy as a fundamental aspect of childhood development, just as critical as reading or general knowledge. He highlighted that the collaboration with Invest bank seeks to foster a creative model that merges cultural and economic awareness, resonating with both children and the broader community.

Edris Al Rafi, CEO of Invest bank, expressed pride in collaborating with SBA on this innovative initiative. He remarked on the necessity of equipping young people with financial skills from an early age to build a more informed and sustainable society. Al Rafi added that combining financial knowledge with creativity is essential for nurturing a generation capable of making smart financial decisions.

The Onshur program, established under the guidance of Sheikha Bodour Bint Sultan Al Qasimi, aims to promote a knowledge-based economy and support emerging publishers in Sharjah. Launched by SBA in partnership with the Emirates Publishers Association and the Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone, Onshur offers tailored development tracks to strengthen the publishing sector’s resilience and sustainability.