Dubai
The summer holidays are always a welcome break for students, parents and teachers in the UAE. While many are going back to school, the break is a time that many should have utilised to try something new, like learn a new skill, try a new sport, go to a new place or meet new friends. I opted for a programme organised by the authorities for children to explore new skills.
All of us are aware that the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) is responsible for the quality and growth of Dubai’s private education sector. They ensure that all learners get the best educational and developmental opportunities.
At the onset of summer, they rolled out a wonderful initiative called the #8WeekStreak to encourage students from all over the UAE to try something new and enriching. This initiative, now in its second year, encouraged students to try a new activity every week and post it on social media with the hashtag #8WeekStreak. Weekly prizes were given to the ones with the most interesting posts.
Much to the delight and exhilaration of students all over the UAE, they also planned weekly fun activities at different places all over Dubai. The activities ranged from lessons in skiing, photography, scuba diving and a ninja warrior course.
Invitations to participate in the activities were posted on social media each week and selected students, in groups of 10, 20 or 30, were treated to an unforgettable day of fun and learning.
The activities were diverse in nature — some promoted physical activity, some helped in learning a new skill and some were an amalgamation of both. Above all, they promoted joy and the willingness to experiment.
The best part was that the children got to participate in the activities along with Dr Abdullah Al Karam, director-general of the KHDA.
He told Gulf News: “We believe Dubai has a lot to offer for young pupils and the summer holidays are a perfect time to experience something new. The #8WeekStreak campaign provides students with an opportunity to experience something new and different. Each week presents participating students with a challenging experience that helps them stay engaged and active while enjoying the summer.”
Dr Al Karam participated in all the activities with the children every single week. The entire team was warm and kind towards the participants and their families and made us feel so special.
It is said that children learn best by example. My brother and I were fortunate to participate in two of the weekly events. Our experience with Dr Al Karam and his team taught us valuable lessons in humility.
Additionally, it was fantastic to meet so many other students from different schools in the country. It promoted a feeling of bonding, togetherness, collaboration and social cohesion. None of the participants knew each other, but we were all soon friends and enjoying the activities together.
Aaron Jacob George, a seven-year-old pupil based in Dubai and a participant of the #8WeekStreak, said: “I had an amazing time and I learnt so much while having a good time. Together with other children, I made a huge pyramid with giant sticks and moving robots, too. It was great to be a part of this event and I wish to say thank you to the KHDA for organising something so special for all the children.”
Elizabeth Jacob, a Dubai resident and parent, said: “As a parent of a child who came back very happy from the event, I would like to applaud KHDA for organising the #8WeekStreak during the summer holidays. It was a unique thought and great initiative for children who stayed back in the UAE during the break. I hope KHDA organises many such events in the future.”
The #8WeekStreak is a brilliant example of innovation, learning novel things, bringing the community together, adapting a healthy lifestyle and promoting happiness and positivity.
I hope this initiative will encourage institutions to plan interactive and collaborative activities on similar lines for children and further strengthen the bonds within their communities.
Let’s also begin the new academic session with zeal, determination to learn, explore, experiment and innovate. Let’s collaborate and connect with the people around us. And above all, let’s go back to school with a renewed sense of happiness and positivity. We have the best people watching our back and guiding us through our path.
The reader is a pupil based in Dubai.
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