In a commendable initiative that melds education with cultural preservation, the “Emirati Etiquette Specialist” program has recently taken root in Sharjah, aimed at bridging generational divides and nurturing a love for heritage among the youth. Launched amid the festivities of Eid Al Adha by a dedicated group of mothers and grandmothers, this program represents a remarkable extension of the “Knowledge is Light” literacy initiative, which ran successfully over the past seven years, transforming the lives of many senior citizens in the region. With a collective passion for continuous learning and teaching, these women have embarked on a mission to impart their knowledge and experiences to the younger generation, thereby enriching the cultural fabric of Emirati society.
Sustainable Learning for All Ages
Led by Naema Al Zarouni, the Director of Social Education at the Department of Social Services, the “Emirati Etiquette Specialist” initiative is a shining example of sustainable educational practices for the elderly. Al Zarouni emphasizes the program’s ethos, stating, “We empower for a life well-lived and an impact that inspires.” The initiative is designed not only to keep senior citizens engaged post-retirement but also to enable them to share the rich heritage and core values of Emirati culture with young children. By doing so, it facilitates a unique opportunity for seniors to remain active contributors within their communities.
“Emirati Etiquette Specialist” serves as a platform for these elder mentors, allowing them to engage in creative and interactive exchanges with children in nurseries across Sharjah. Through storytelling and sharing their lived experiences, they breathe life into the age-old customs and traditions that have shaped their society. This initiative is particularly crucial in an age where rapid globalization and technological advancements often leave younger generations disconnected from their cultural roots.
Upholding Heritage and Values
As Naema Al Zarouni noted, the program is foundational in its aim to align the younger generation with the values and traditions of their forebears. By immersing children in the rich tapestry of Emirati life, the initiative strives to cultivate an appreciation for their heritage while instilling essential social values. The storytelling sessions not only recount historical narratives but also teach children about traditional crafts and livelihoods that were once the bedrock of their ancestors’ existence.
The initiative is structured in four distinct phases, each of which builds upon the other to ensure a comprehensive educational experience. Initially, participants were carefully selected based on their expertise in Emirati etiquette. Following this, educators crafted engaging workshops and interactive programs designed to captivate the younger audience. The subsequent phase has involved the execution of these workshops, allowing the elder participants to actively engage and interact with children. The final phase will include a detailed assessment of the initiative’s efficacy and societal impact, ensuring that it continues to adapt and evolve to meet the needs of both seniors and children alike.
The Positive Impact on Children
Feedback from the children has been overwhelmingly positive, marking the initiative as a resounding success thus far. Following its launch, four interactive workshops have been conducted, beginning with a special session dedicated to Eid greetings. In this session, children enthusiastically learned traditional expressions such as “Eidkum Mubarak” and explored the significance of Emirati attire and proper etiquette during festive occasions. They also engaged in creative activities, such as decorating papers with culturally-themed stickers.
Subsequent workshops have further enriched the children’s understanding of their culture. The first workshop focused on the nuances of greetings, encouraging children to role-play as hosts and guests—a meaningful exercise in social skills. The second workshop highlighted Emirati traditional dress, fostering a sense of pride in national identity while educating children about the differences in attire across generations. Hospitality, a cornerstone of Emirati culture, was the theme of the third workshop, where children learned to serve Arabic coffee through interactive skit performances. The fourth workshop, aimed at instilling patriotism, taught children about national symbols and the UAE national anthem, deepening their sense of belonging and identity.
Through initiatives like “Emirati Etiquette Specialist,” the Department of Social Services in Sharjah is crafting a future where the wisdom of the past meets the curiosity of the future, ensuring that the vibrant cultural heritage of the UAE remains firmly rooted in the next generation’s consciousness.
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