Virtual Summer Camp Promotes Sustainability Values Among UAE Youth
By SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)
In an era marked by pressing environmental challenges, the imperative to cultivate sustainable habits and values within our communities has never been more critical. Anticipating this necessity, a pioneering virtual summer camp is underway, designed to educate participants about sustainability and the importance of environmental conservation. This initiative, organized by the Environment Friends Society (EFS), runs until August 26 and seeks to engage individuals from across the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and beyond.
In an exclusive interview with Aletihad, Dr. Ibrahim Ali Mohamed, the Chairman of the EFS, elaborated on the camp’s vision and objectives. He emphasized that the decision to host the camp online was a deliberate choice aimed at maximizing participation. “By opting for a virtual format, we are able to reach a wider audience, allowing for broader engagement across the UAE and internationally. This approach also accommodates students during their summer break, providing them a flexible opportunity for learning,” Dr. Mohamed noted.
The camp is a collaborative effort, made possible through strategic partnerships with several esteemed governmental and private organizations, including the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, the Abu Dhabi Police General Headquarters, and the Ports, Customs & Free Zone Corporation. This alignment with key players underscores a collective drive towards fostering environmental awareness and sustainable practices.
From recycling workshops to lessons on renewable energy, the camp offers an extensive program designed to educate attendees on various facets of sustainability. Dr. Mohamed highlighted the diverse curricular elements, stating, “Participants will engage in workshops focusing on artificial intelligence in relation to sustainability, sustainable agricultural practices, first aid training, and more. Each component is meticulously designed to instill environmental values among youth and families alike.”
This initiative is not merely about imparting knowledge; it is fundamentally about empowering the youth. Dr. Mohamed outlined how the camp equips participants with essential skills that enable them to become ambassadors for the environment. “They will learn vital competencies such as waste sorting, reusability, and planning small eco-friendly projects. Additionally, the program encourages teamwork and voluntary participation,” he stressed.
The camp is also aligned with the UAE’s ambitious Net Zero 2050 Strategy, aiming to significantly reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable living. “Through this camp, we seek to foster a culture of sustainability within everyday life and motivate participants to adopt practices that contribute to reducing their carbon footprints,” Dr. Mohamed added. Participants are recognized for their community engagement, and efforts are made to honor those who demonstrate exceptional commitment to environmental volunteerism.
Looking to the future, Dr. Mohamed shared insights on how the camp plans to evolve to offer an even more engaging experience. “As the new school year approaches, we aim to launch initiatives and sustainable programs that continue the education beyond the summer camp. Our goal is to instill a year-round awareness and active participation in sustainability efforts among young individuals,” he explained.
In addition, the EFS is actively pursuing the expansion of partnerships with different organizations to enhance the camp’s long-term impact, both locally and regionally. This initiative reflects a growing recognition of the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing environmental issues.
In conclusion, the virtual summer camp hosted by the Environment Friends Society is not just a temporary educational experience; it represents a significant step towards building a more environmentally conscious society. By equipping the youth with essential skills and knowledge, and by fostering a sense of agency, this initiative embodies a proactive approach to ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.
As the world grapples with climate change and environmental degradation, programs like these remind us of the critical role education plays in shaping a more sustainable tomorrow.
Tags: #EnvironmentNews #EducationNews #UAE