Sudanese expatriates find hope in education priority

Abu Dhabi: The UAE is the second largest investor in Sudan [after Saudi Arabia] in agricultural, economic and several other fields, Ahmad Gaffar Abdul Karim, the Sudanese Ambassador has said.

He highlighted in an address to the guests of the Sudan Independence day reception in Abu Dhabi the friendly relations between the two countries since the formation of the UAE.

On his part, Hussain Elamin Al Fadil, Deputy Ambassador, told Gulf News: "About 50,000 Sudanese are living in the UAE and their number is increasing every year."

He said: "The profile of the community has also improved as many people are working as judges, lawyers, teachers and other professionals."

Some Sudanese expats told Gulf News that they believe that the determination to educate children despite the problems the developing country face is a notable achievement of Sudanese people. They expect peace will be restored in the trouble-torn areas in their country, if external interference ceases.

They spoke to Gulf News on the sidelines of a reception at Hilton Hotel in Abu Dhabi organised by the Sudanese Embassy on Tuesday evening as part of the 53rd anniversary of independence of Sudan.

Dr Hadef Jua'an Al Daheri, UAE Minister of Justice, was the chief guest at the function. The community members said education brings a lot of hope. "Sudan is one of the very few underdeveloped countries which doesn't lack know-how," said Ali Seddiqi, 60, a senior archive specialist who came to the UAE 27 years ago.