Environment Friends Society inspires youth to strive for sustainable future through virtual summer camp
SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)A virtual summer camp aims to instill the values of sustainability in the community and raise awareness about the importance of protecting the environment and preserving its resources.
In an interview with Aletihad , Dr. Ibrahim Ali Mohamed, Chairman of the Board of the Environment Friends Society (EFS), spoke about the vision of the camp, which is running until August 26. He explained that the decision to host the camp online was intentional.'We chose to make it virtual to allow for broader participation from across the UAE and abroad, and to provide a flexible environment accessible to everyone, especially students during their summer vacation.'The camp is organised through strategic partnerships with key government and private entities including the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, Al Rawad Workers Guidance Center, Abu Dhabi Police General Headquarters, the Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority, the Ports, Customs & Free Zone Corporation, and Remah Farm.Dr. Mohamed said that the programme includes a wide range of workshops.'The camp includes various workshops, such as recycling, artificial intelligence, and its relationship to sustainability, sustainable agriculture and smart agriculture, first aid, renewable energy, and an interactive environmental component aimed at instilling environmental values among young people, youth, and families,' he said.Dr. Mohamed said the camp equips youth with key skills, empowering participants to be environmental ambassadors, while supporting national sustainability goals.'Participants learn practical skills such as waste sorting, reuse, planning small environmentally-friendly projects, and volunteer teamwork. 'The camp also contributes to supporting the UAE's Net Zero 2050 Strategy by spreading a culture of reducing emissions and adopting sustainable practices in daily life.'We are keen to motivate participants by providing them with opportunities to showcase their environmental initiatives, honouring them as environmental volunteers in their communities, and supporting their volunteer projects.'Looking ahead, Dr. Mohamed said the camp will evolve to offer a more well-rounded experience that blends learning with practical engagement.'A new feature at the beginning of the school year will be the launch of initiatives and programmes aimed at sustainability throughout the year,' he said.
He added that efforts are under way to expand partnerships to boost the camp's long-term impact locally and regionally.
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