Ramadan TV films tackle social issues

Abu Dhabi: Throughout the holy month, viewers of popular Ramadan serials aired on a local television channel have been exposed to seven educational films that tackled pressing social issues, reported a statement by a government department in the capital.

The 60-second films, developed by the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD) and aired on Abu Dhabi TV, dealt with the harmful effects of domestic violence, marital disputes, drug use and other social issues.

According to the statement from the ADJD, the topics were decided based on research conducted by the ADJD on the most pertinent social concerns in the capital.

Jaafar Al Aydaroos Al Hashemi, media officer at communications and public relations bureau of the ADJD, said family values and social security formed the focus of all the films.

"The ADJD wanted to tackle aggression and social disturbance, especially as young people are exposed to numerous forms of violence on a regular basis. We firmly believe that having a strong and stable family, as well as social network, is the key to reducing these problems, and this is why we developed the films," Al Hashemi said.

When asked about the format of the videos, he gave an example of the film which dealt with the issue of domestic violence.

"It shows a young boy being exposed to violence on television, and on the PlayStation, and to arguments between family members. We focus on this child's vulnerability to become violent because of what he sees around him, and a message that says ‘Violence starts at home' is shown at the end," he said.

Al Hashemi also added that the ADJD chose to air these videos during Ramadan because many families spend their free time together during the month and were likely to see the films when catching up on popular shows.

Gadir Ayman, 17, a student from Egypt said she had seen the educational films a number of times, particularly the films warning against use of drugs and about avoiding violence at home.

She however added that young children might not understand the full content of the videos on their own.

"I think it is a commendable idea to air such educational films, but I also think parents should be around to explain to young children the meaning of these films to avoid misunderstandings," Ayman said.

Faten Al Masri, 28, an interpreter from Palestine who has also seen the films, said Ramadan was the perfect time to broadcast them.

"People are more likely to see them, take the message seriously and try to avoid harmful behaviours because of the positive environment around them," Al Masri said.