Learn about the galaxy at Wafi City

Yusuf Muslih held his prize tight and didn't open it fearing someone would snatch his trophy from him.

He and other youngsters were asked to hit with a puppet one of the stars on a blackboard which resembled a galaxy at the Planets and Stars Competition at Wafi City. And, five-year-old Yusuf was on target . He said: "I am so happy I won."

His mother, Amal Mohammed, a Yemeni living in Dubai with her seven children, said: "The Back-2-School Surprises is such a wonderful event because it gives us a chance to enjoy our spare time with our children. It is so nice to see them take part in the activities with a great deal of enthusiasm.

"The Back-2-School Surprises and the Dubai Summer Surprises entertain and educate. Children have fun during the summer vacation, but they also learn a lot. With school opening soon, the children start focusing on studies with the events during Back-2-School Surprises."

A DSS official said the competition is a novel way to educate children about the stars and the planets.

"The competition is open to children aged between six and 13. But even adults take part by helping their children. The competition isn't won by simply hitting the target. Once the child hits the target, he or she has to answer a question about the planets or the stars or a general knowledge query. The child's parents can help him or her. Hence, everyone gets to take part."

Yusuf's brother Jalal, 17, was helping his brother. He said: "I love these competitions because I get to spend time with my brothers and interact with other youngsters."

Mohammed Sharif, 16, was at Wafi City along with his family. A resident of Dubai, Moham-med said: "I am having a lot fun. I hop from one shopping mall to another and take part in the various events.

"Ever since the festival started, my friends and I have enjoyed ourselves. We look forward to this part of the year when we get to learn a lot and have a lot of fun as well."