The Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) has launched its Heritage, Culture and Science Community Schools project, as a part of the Winter Activities Program in Abu Dhabi, being held under the slogan the UAE Spirit Camp, where 1,000 students are due to participate, thus encouraging productive interaction with focus on the program’s four pillars: Science and Maths, Robotics and Programming, Sports and Health, Culture and Heritage.
Speaking about the initiative, Mr. Nasser Khamis Al Marri, ADEK’s Acting Programs Development Director, said, “The Heritage, Culture and Science project is a part of ADEK’s keenness to raise an innovative generation, proud of their culture and national heritage. It is also a part of our efforts to strengthen the role of schools into becoming a scientific, cultural and social beacon that supports the Abu Dhabi Plan 2030 by establishing an integrated program which is especially designed to meet student needs based on age group. The program will enhance their skills, ignite their teamwork spirit and help them become more aware of their responsibilities towards the community.”
Mr. Al Marri added the fact that the program covers various schools in Abu Dhabi, the Al Ain and the Al Dhafra Regions. It consists of four pillars: Science and Maths, Robotics and Programming, Sports and Health, and Culture and Heritage, which collectively aim to enhance their knowledge, encourage innovation, promote their leadership skills and expand their sense of competence.”
The Heritage, Culture and Science Camp program includes scientific activities for students from Grades 1 to 12, where they learn the basic skills of mathematics and science through solving puzzles and engaging in competitions. The program also teaches basic mathematics skills for secondary school students. Robotics and programming activities focus on teaching students coding as well as designing and building simple robots, learning the basics of advanced programming and understanding the future potential of a robot.
The health and sports activities help teach students the importance of physical activities, communication and teamwork, the importance of leadership and responsibility, along with the importance of a balanced diet and the need to lead a healthy lifestyle. Heritage and culture activities focus on enhancing Arabic language skills among students. It introduces them to the UAE culture and reinforces a students national identity, teaching them how to apply the principles of heritage in their daily lives.
1,000 students from all grade levels, divided into three teams, are participating in the ‘Heritage, Culture and Science at Community Schools’ program which runs until 10th January 2019. The activities aim to build on a student’s potential through engaging them in productive activities during the school holidays. They focus on delivering subjects in an entertaining and educational manner while encouraging the culture of tourism.
This project is part of ADEK’s Abu Dhabi Winter Activities Program, which includes the recently held Sir Bani Yas Challenge and the Future Leaders Journey, which also runs until 10th January 2019.
