In a landmark meeting presided over by His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the Ruler of Sharjah and President of the Sharjah Performing Arts Academy (SPAA), a bold new strategic plan for the years 2024-2029 was approved, signifying a transformative leap for the academy and its students. Held at the academy’s prestigious location in University City, Sharjah, the gathering marked a pivotal moment in SPAA’s journey towards becoming a beacon of artistic excellence and innovation.
Embarking on a New Era of Artistic Excellence
The newly approved strategic plan focuses on a trio of core objectives: achieving international accreditations, enhancing job opportunities for graduates, and significantly enriching the artistic field. With an eye on positioning SPAA among the world’s leading institutions for both live and recorded performances, the plan outlines a future where the academy emerges as a specialized center for all performing arts and productions. This vision is not only about maintaining high educational standards but also about ensuring students are equipped for sustainable careers in the global creative and cultural arts sector.
Revolutionizing Education with a Master of Fine Arts Program
One of the meeting’s highlights was the introduction of a Master of Fine Arts program, offering specializations in directing, editing, and acting. This program is set to redefine performing arts education, providing an advanced curriculum designed to hone the skills of aspiring artists and prepare them for the complexities of the industry. Alongside this, the appointment of Ahmed Mohammed Al Mazmi as head of the alumni association underscores SPAA’s commitment to fostering a supportive community that extends beyond the classroom, encouraging ongoing engagement and networking among graduates.
Achievements and Forward Momentum
Sheikh Sultan’s remarks at the meeting served as a potent reminder of SPAA’s achievements, particularly the successful graduation of the academy’s first batch of students — a milestone that saw 85% of graduates securing job opportunities and making their mark in the labour market. This accomplishment not only reflects the quality of education provided by SPAA but also its effectiveness in preparing students for real-world challenges. The strategic plan for 2024-2029 builds on this foundation, aiming to further elevate the academy’s status on the international stage and contribute talented individuals to the artistic field.
As the Sharjah Performing Arts Academy embarks on this ambitious journey, it stands at the forefront of a cultural renaissance, shaping the future of performing arts education and production. With the unwavering support of Sheikh Sultan and the strategic foresight of the Board of Trustees, SPAA is poised to usher in a new era of artistic innovation and excellence, enriching the cultural landscape not only in Sharjah but across the globe.