Charitable spirit unites pupils

On November 12, 2012, the boys of Our Own High School, Al Warqa’a, Dubai celebrated ‘Mufti Day’ with a difference.

Simply put, ‘mufti’ means civil dress or casuals.

The theme was to promote healthy eating habits and charity by organising a class party. The school wore a festive look with students in smart casuals.

The pupils from grade 1 to grade 10 either brought homemade vegetarian dishes or prepared them at school. One could smell the aroma of fresh cucumbers, carrots, broccoli and celery in the classrooms. Scrumptious salads were prepared by enthusiastic students in no time.

The boys truly believed in the saying, ‘an apple a day keeps the doctor away’. They brought in fruits of every kind — from mangoes to peaches.

The innovative recipes were mouthwatering. They had a wonderful time sharing healthy food with their friends and teachers.

The day saw them saying a firm ‘no’ to junk food as they relished the delights of fruits and vegetables. The pupils demonstrated that the greatest wealth is health and healthy eating leads to a healthier life.

Environment Stewards from each class shared what they learnt with their peers and informed them that vegetarian diets are amongst the healthiest for reducing risk of chronic diseases. They were also well guided by class teachers on a balanced diet. Organic food and natural food diet supplements were the topics of discussion on the day.

To promote the value of providing a service to the community, students contributed generously. The amount collected was donated to charitable organisations that help underprivileged children around the world.

‘Mufti Day with a difference’ was an education for the pupils that it does not matter whether the effort is small or large, what matters the most is empathy towards others and the willingness to serve and support humanity. Such events encourage students to grow up with a healthy sense of compassion and a strong charitable spirit.

The reader is based in Dubai.

Be a community reporter. Tell us what is happening in your community. Send us your videos and pictures at readers@gulfnews.com