UAE deeply committed to safeguarding its rich biodiversity: Minister of Climate Change and Environment
In a statement on the International Day for Biological Diversity, marked annually on 22nd May, Dr. Al Dahak said that this year's theme, 'From Agreement to Action: Build Back Biodiversity,' perfectly captures the urgency of the UAE's mission, noting that the 'General Framework of the National Biodiversity Strategy 2031' reflects this understanding.
She added, 'We recognise that protecting biodiversity and championing nature-based solutions are not simply environmental add-ons; they are the essential foundation upon which all our efforts to combat climate change and achieve lasting sustainability must be built.'
Dr. Al Dahak emphasised that the UAE is deeply committed to safeguarding its rich biodiversity, embracing it as a cornerstone of its sustainability efforts, reflected in the designation of 49 protected areas, encompassing over 15 percent of the nation's territory, which preserves its desert, mountains, and the marine environment, providing critical habitats for endangered species.
'Our success in bringing the majestic Arabian Oryx back from the brink of extinction stands as a testament to our dedication to wildlife conservation. Furthermore, we are leveraging technology to enhance our conservation strategies, from using drones to combat desertification to pioneering research in marine life preservation," she further said.
Beyond our borders, Dr. Al Dahak stated, the UAE champions international collaboration, exemplified by its partnership with Indonesia to launch the Mangrove Alliance for Climate (MAC). 'As part of this alliance, we are also investing in cutting-edge research, as demonstrated by the groundbreaking of the Mohamed bin Zayed-Joko Widodo International Mangrove Research Centre on the island of Bali, in collaboration with the Republic of Indonesia.'
'Here in the UAE, we are actively engaging stakeholders across multiple sectors to boost our local agriculture and safeguard the country's rich biodiversity,' the minister explained, adding that the Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition, taking place from 28th to 31st May, offers an opportunity to turn goals into tangible actions.
'In addition to our focus on supporting farmers and increasing the local production of strategic crops, we will place special emphasis on the development of our livestock and fisheries, key pillars in strengthening both biodiversity and sustainable food security,' she added.
'I invite you to join us at this important event to explore innovative strategies that ensure a better future for both nature and humanity. Let us build a lasting legacy that future generations will be proud to carry forward,' Dr. Al Dahak concluded.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Zawya
an hour ago
- Zawya
Kent College Dubai's 2025 I/GCSE results showcase academic excellence and bright futures
With top grades, the school continues to set a distinguished educational standards. Dubai – Kent College Dubai, in partnership with Aldar Education, revealed its 2025 I/GCSE examination results, with 100% pass rate, demonstrating outstanding academic achievement and consistent student growth. This year's cohort included 43% of exam entries graded A*-A and 90% graded A*-C, underscoring the high calibre of education delivered at the school. With a total of 548 exam entries, 12% were awarded the highest possible grade, A*/9, and 26% secured A*/9-8 grades, highlighting the depth of talent among students. These results not only reflect excellent individual performance but also the significant progress made by pupils across all subjects. The results at a glance I/GCSE results 2025 Name of School Kent College Dubai No. of exam entries 548 % of exam entries graded A*/9 12% % of exam entries graded A*/9-8 26% % of exam entries graded A*-A /9-7 43% % of exam entries graded A*-B /9-6 63% % of exam entries graded A*-C /9-4 90% Overall student pass rate 100% Remarkable Top Achievers Set New Benchmarks The school celebrated its top performers who achieved multiple A* and 9 grades across a broad spectrum of subjects: Timur Alimkhanov excelled in Mathematics and History, securing top 9 grades alongside strong performances in Biology and English. Leonor Maria Simões De Campos Batista impressed with exceptional results in Biology, Chemistry, English, and History, achieving multiple 9 and 8 grades. Marianna Lambou delivered a stellar performance with 9s in Biology, English, and History, and solid grades across sciences and Maths. Aria Mariko Pitham showcased versatility with 9s in Music, Biology, Chemistry, Maths, Physics, and high grades in Business Studies and English. Shaivi Keva Baichoo led the cohort with a suite of 9s in French, Biology, Chemistry, English, History, Maths, and Physics. Tim Hollis, the school Principal Commented: 'I am extremely proud to celebrate this year's outstanding GCSE and BTEC results, which include significant numbers of top-level grades at A* and A, with many pupils achieving at least five A*/A grades. These results also reflect the remarkable value added, demonstrating the impressive progress made in all classrooms. They are a true testament to the hard work and commitment of our students, supported by the dedication of their teachers.' Saha Cooper, CEO of Aldar Education added: 'Our students continue to inspire us as they set new academic excellence everyday. These achievements belong not only to them but also to our exceptional teachers whose expertise, care and commitment have guided the students every step of the way. Kent College Dubai's results once again highlight the school's commitment to fostering an environment where every student can thrive. The breadth of high achievement across STEM, humanities, languages, and creative subjects underscores the balanced curriculum and personalised support that empower students to excel. The excellent value-added scores illustrate not only raw ability but also the effective teaching and learning culture that transforms potential into success. For further information, please contact: Media Justin Froes Justin.f@ About Aldar Education Aldar Education is a leading education provider in the UAE, and one of the largest private education providers in Abu Dhabi with over 38,000 students across 31 operated and managed schools and a growing network of educators from over 100 nationalities. As one of the most sought-after institutions, Aldar Education delivers inclusive, sustainable, and innovative learning through a wide range of curriculum and ancillary services, ensuring a holistic approach to transformational growth through agility and sustainability. With excellence at the heart of its operations, Aldar Education is driven by a vision to deliver the highest standards of globally relevant education. It is committed to cultivating the most sustainable and inclusive learning communities that enrich every aspect of a student's life, directly supporting the UAE's vision for a sustainable knowledge-based economy. For more information on Aldar Education, please visit
Zawya
21 hours ago
- Zawya
IGCF 2025 to feature three global voices delivering inspirational talks on communication and quality of life
Sharjah, Organised by the Sharjah Government Media Bureau (SGMB), the 14th edition of the International Government Communication Forum (IGCF 2025) will be held on September 10–11 at Expo Centre Sharjah under the theme 'Communication for Quality of Life'. This year's forum will explore how strategic communication can support wellbeing, resilience, and sustainable development across key sectors. From harnessing education to build a happiness economy, to developing human-centred artificial intelligence and reimagining food systems, keynote addresses will offer insights to inspire policy, innovation, and practical actions that enhance quality of life worldwide. The forum will bring together three leading international figures in education, innovation and science, alongside global leaders, decision-makers, and communication experts. Across 22 interactive platforms, the two-day programme will feature panel discussions, keynote speeches, and workshops focused on solutions to today's most pressing global challenges. From challenge to local innovation Malawian Engineer and Inventor William Kamkwamba will share his journey in a keynote titled 'When Thought Becomes a Force for Change'. Drawing on his experience of building a wind turbine from simple materials to help his drought-stricken village, Kamkwamba will demonstrate how government communication can identify and support grassroots innovations. He will discuss how empowering communities to create context-specific solutions strengthens food security and builds resilience. Interactive intelligence with human values In a keynote titled 'New Life Code… Human Intelligence and Interactive Technology', Oussama Khatib, Professor of Computer Science at Stanford University and President of the International Foundation of Robotics Research (IFRR), will present the latest advances in interactive robotics. A recipient of the "Arab Genius" award, he will explain how robotics can improve the quality of life in sectors such as healthcare, education, and crisis management. Prof. Khatib will emphasise the importance of embedding ethical and human values into the development of smart technologies to ensure they serve humanity's well-being. Food Communication and the Protein Revolution: What Lies Ahead? Dr. Karan Rajan, a best-selling author and surgeon at the UK's National Health Service (NHS), will deliver a keynote titled 'Food Communication and the Protein Revolution: What Lies Ahead?' He will explore how communication can raise public awareness of scientific advances in protein development and guide communities in adopting sustainable food systems that support global food security. 22 platforms to foster innovation and exchange Spread across 22 platforms, the two-day forum will feature diverse sessions, bringing together experts and specialists from various sectors, alongside representatives from government entities, international organisations, academic institutions, and the media. The 14th edition of IGCF will focus on five global priorities: food security, public health, education, environmental sustainability, and the green economy. Through a series of discussions and knowledge exchange opportunities, the forum aims to promote quality of life, strengthen communication between governments and communities, and inspire collaborative action towards a more equitable and sustainable future.
The National
a day ago
- The National
Schools in the UAE look for best way to bring AI into the classroom
Artificial intelligence use in schools is 'an inevitability', but finding the right balance between embracing the technology and maintaining traditional teaching techniques is the key to success, the head of the Middle East's largest private education group has said. Dino Varkey, group chief executive at Gems Education, said it spent 'a lot of time' as educators try to determine how AI can be used more effectively in schools. Tools including ChatGPT are used worldwide, causing debate over how best to bring them into the classroom. Mr Varkey is well aware that schools have to change to get the best out of the technology, with assessment a particular area of focus. 'Typically what you're trying to do, as AI is encroaching much more into our daily lives … the nature of the assessments that we perhaps need to do with our students needs to change and be transformed a little bit,' he said. He was speaking at the Gems Awareness Day on Wednesday, where more than 1,700 newly recruited teachers for this academic year were being welcomed. How will AI change testing? When asked whether pupils would face disciplinary action for using generative AI tools like ChatGPT to write essays, Mr Varkey said traditional take-home essay assignments are 'the wrong type of assessment' in the modern world. He suggested pupils could instead be tasked with using AI tools for research at home and then produce written work independently in class. 'In an exam situation, it's different. But if you're going to ask a child today to go and write an essay on something at home and bring it back, then that's actually not the right assessment,' he said. 'We have tools to allow us to be able to identify things that are clearly sort of written and or produced with the use of AI. But again, I would argue that the assessments need to change.' How will AI be used in schools? Mr Varkey was speaking behalf of Gems, a private educator, and while all private school groups across the UAE are looking at AI use, each has a slightly different approach. However, in government schools new AI classes are to be introduced across all stages of government education in the UAE from reception to grade 12 starting from the coming 2025/26 academic year. 'The subject will matter on teaching students how to use artificial intelligence in an ethical and responsible way,' Sarah Al Amiri, Minister of Education, said at an event on Tuesday. 'In the first and second cycle, there will be one class every two weeks focused on raising awareness towards the benefits and potential harms of AI, while on the third cycle it will be focused on using AI effectively.' The subject will be taught by the same teachers that teach computer science; they were trained specifically to teach AI for this year. Additionally, there will be a specialised committee that makes sure the subject is being taught effectively. Focus on human values Mr Varkey agrees for private sector schools, stressing that it is important to be aware of not just the benefits of AI but also the potential harms. He stressed that essential skills such as memory-building and critical thinking are important. 'The chair of our council, Baroness Spielman, would tell you that actually the use of AI in perhaps a more typical manner will lead to cognitive debt,' he said. 'That effectively means that a student's ability to retain something in the long-term memory can be completely impacted. There is a lot to do in terms of being able to use AI in the most effective manner.' Lisa Crausby, group chief education officer at Gems, added: 'It has a value. What we're saying, though, is that you still need all the other knowledge components and skills. 'As everybody's trying to lean into AI, we're actually shining a really big spotlight on our values, because you don't want to lose that. It's one thing AI can't offer.' The UN culture agency (Unesco) said that there was a lack of guidance worldwide on how AI should used in classrooms to improve learning outcomes. It said that its research in 2022 showed that only 15 countries had included AI learning objectives in their national curriculum, but only half of them had developed AI frameworks or programmes for teachers. New teachers recruited The academic year starts on August 25 in the UAE, with Gems welcoming more than 1,700 newly recruited teachers across the country and Qatar. That is a drop from last year's 1,850 new recruits, but Ms Crausby said it was a 'good sign' because the retention rate is improving. Taaleem, which operates more than 30 schools in the UAE, said they had a 25 per cent increase from last year in the number of new educators. 'Taaleem has seen a significant increase in teacher recruitment this academic year, reflecting both the population boom across the country and the continued growth of our schools,' the group told The National. 'In August alone, we successfully onboarded more than 500 new teachers, alongside senior leaders, learning assistants and administrative staff.' Taaleem said it was seeing a 'strong interest' from teachers abroad who are interested to work in the UAE. It said their new hiring model means they start recruitment planning a year in advance and recommended teachers to demonstrate 'adaptability, cultural awareness and commitment to professional development'.
