Sharjah Museums Authority: Museum Studies Programme

The SAWA Museum Studies Programme, initiated by the Sharjah Museums Authority in partnership with the Staatliche Museen zu Berlin, Goethe-Institut Gulf Region, and the University of Applied Sciences Berlin (HTW), offers a transcultural approach to museum studies. Launched in 2015, the programme focuses on building the capacity of current and future museum professionals from the MENA region and Germany, aiming to foster knowledge exchange and innovative museum practices through collaboration and mutual learning.

The SAWA programme adopts the ‘Appropriate Museology’, a bottom-up, community-based approach that emphasizes the adaptation of museum practices to local cultural contexts. The curriculum, co-developed by facilitators from the UAE and Europe, includes critical diversity literacy and social justice components. This unique structure encourages participants to reflect on and deconstruct their own biases, fostering more inclusive and equitable museum practices.

SAWA addresses several core museum activities, including education, collection and exhibition programs, communication and accessibility, and governance and sustainability.

It features theoretical and practical seminars, workshops, and online sessions designed to enhance participants' understanding of diverse museological practices.
Modules part of the programme cover participative strategies for collecting and documenting, as well as curatorial strategies that promote shared authorship.

The programme, emphasizing museum communication, access, and engagement, ensures that museums serve as inclusive public spaces and by focusing on social justice and climate change, SAWA encourages museums to act as agents of societal change and sustainability.

Overall, SAWA provides an immersive and comprehensive training experience that prepares museum professionals to address contemporary challenges and contribute to the dynamic field of museum studies.

Explain in one sentence why you think the project you nominate is outstanding and could serve as an example for the entire community of modern and contemporary art museums.

The SAWA Museum Studies Programme teaches valuable lessons on the importance of cross-cultural collaboration, adaptable museology, and the role of museums in social change. By fostering knowledge exchange between the MENA region and Germany, the programme enhances understanding and inclusivity in museum practices. It emphasizes adapting museum strategies to local contexts, ensuring relevance and community engagement. The curriculum covers social justice, sustainability, and practical training, preparing participants to address contemporary challenges effectively. Networking opportunities further support professional development and international collaboration, creating a global community of innovative museum practitioners dedicated to excellence. SAWA enables everyone involved to share knowledge, skills and best practice to support their individual professional development.
SAWA Museum Studies program; an Arab-German program that aims to inspire innovative museum practices for emerging museum practitioners. Its innovative cross-cultural collaboration, emphasis on social justice and inclusivity, and comprehensive blend of theoretical and practical training.

Explain why this practice or program is relevant and sustainable in creating meaningful and lasting connections with people, communities, and the museum context with a medium to long-term vision.

SAWA Museum Studies Programme is impactful and enduring due to its creative approach to cross-cultural collaboration and community involvement. By bringing together museum professionals from the MENA region and Germany, it cultivates a profound understanding of various cultural environments and methodologies. The programme highlights themes of social equity and diversity, prompting participants to examine and dismantle their preconceived notions, thereby fostering fairer museum practices. Its thorough mix of academic and hands-on training equips participants with the capabilities necessary to navigate current challenges in the museum sector. Additionally, SAWA's emphasis on sustainable methods and promotion of international partnerships ensures that the relationships and knowledge developed are significant and enduring, benefiting both local communities and the global museum framework.

https://www.sharjahmuseums.ae/en-US/Sawa-Academy https://www.sawamuseumstudies.com/