Watani nationwide summer heritage camps kick off

The one-month initiative targeting boys and girls will be held in a different emirate every week.

The camps that will run through July launched in Fujairah and Dubai. The Dubai camp saw the participation of 40 boys, whereas the Fujairah camp was attended by 60 girls, including a number of girls with special needs from the Special Needs Centre in Fujairah.

Ahmed Obaid Al Mansoori, Coordinator General, Watani Programme, said: "The camps aim to provide a useful and enjoyable outlet for the children while introducing them to the rich social and historic heritage of the country. The various activities will train the kids to cooperate and work together as one team and enhance their awareness about their national identity by introducing them to the traditions, values, as well as arts and sciences in the UAE. Watani designed these activities as a platform to achieve balanced societal development through individuals' participation in educational and humanitarian initiatives."

During the first week, participants in Dubai camp visited the Old Age Home Centre in Sharjah and Al Bastakiya heritage Area in Dubai, in addition to enjoying the astronomical program at Zabeel Park. Muhammed Khalid Al Muhairi, 7 years, was so moved by the visit to the old age centre that he said: "I will do my best to take care of my parents when they grow old as they will be completely in need of me then, just as I need them now."

Muhammed Rashid Mubarak, 8 years, remarked: "I loved the sight of the stars in the night. I also enjoyed the company of my friends outside the school premises. We learned and we played for very long hours. Time just passed us by so fast that we did not even realize it. I wish I could participate in Watani camps always."

Participants from Fujairah camp visited the Children's Farm, Arabian Peninsula Garden, and Sharjah Natural History Museum. They also enjoyed the astronomical show in front of Rotana hotel. Shahd Saeed Salim, aged 7, expressed her joy for taking part in the different activities "this is the first time I saw the planets and the moon outside science books. We spent a fruitful time indeed, and we learnt a lot about our country's history. It was great to mingle with our friends with special needs because we learnt a lot."

Mariam Hamdan Karam Jalal Al Kaadi, aged 10, said: We had wonderful new programs every day. We drew on jars, made burqas and cooked Khanfaroosh! Thanks to Watani, we had an opportunity to enjoy the heritage of our country and participate with our school friends in preserving it."