Sharjah: An online training course titled "Structural Conservation of Built Heritage," organized by the ICCROM Regional Centre in Sharjah, commenced today. Running from October 19 to November 10, 2024, the course has drawn 275 participants from 24 countries across the Arab region and the globe, focusing on the critical role of structural conservation in heritage preservation. According to Emirates News Agency, the course aims to educate participants about the structural conservation of heritage buildings, especially in the aftermath of crises. It offers a comprehensive framework for understanding and addressing the complexities involved in this field, encouraging the sharing of projects on ICCROM's platforms to disseminate knowledge and best practices. The course is part of a broader effort to strengthen the capacities of heritage institutions in the Member States, with a focus on qualifying youth teams and filling expertise gaps through practical training and projects. The course is designed to equip parti cipants with the skills necessary for effective management of conservation projects, addressing crucial questions related to structural conservation. Architect Anwar Sabik, manager of the course and Programme Officer at the ICCROM Regional Centre in Sharjah, highlighted that the course is part of a larger training and capacity-building program. This program also includes a Master's Program in Cultural Heritage Conservation Management, implemented with the University of Sharjah, and practical skills training through seasonal courses. The training arrives at a time when the region faces significant challenges due to damage inflicted by natural and human causes, threatening the structural integrity and survival of cultural heritage components. The decline of heritage institutions, state infrastructure, and the cessation of training and expertise sharing have exacerbated the loss of knowledge in heritage preservation techniques and technologies. In response, this course is a crucial component of ICCROM's initiat ives to enhance heritage protection and crisis management.