Watani.tv holds road-shows

The campaign that represents an attempt to create an electronic reservoir of UAE culture and traditions online was introduced to the students at the UAE University in Al Ain yesterday in a ceremony attended by students of UAEU, faculty and officials.

At the opening ceremony, H.E. Dr. Fatma Al Shamsi, Secretary General of the UAE University reiterated that in line with His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan declaration of the year 2008 as the National Identity Year, preserving national heritage and traditions is the responsibility of everyone. She stressed that words solely cannot preserve the national identity, it has to be coupled by outstanding deeds and true effort exerted by every citizen of the UAE.

Following the Key note speech, H.E. Ahmed Al Mansoori, Coordinator General, of Watani, underlined the importance of the mission in preserving the national identity, culture and heritage of the UAE. This mission is the responsibility of every Emirati who should be passing on the values and traditions of the nation not only to the younger generation, but to other members of the community. He also pointed out that the 'national identity' was not a newly developed concept, but had been promoted 36 years ago by the UAE's ancestors who brought all the seven emirates together.

Using the internet based portal Watani.tv, National treasures campaign aims to create an on-line archive of the country's heritage and lifestyle. As memories fade, it will open up to everyone, living in or visiting today's UAE, a platform to share views and life experiences.

Students of the participating universities across the UAE are invited to enrich the Watani.tv portal with the valuable documentaries about the UAE in a form of video, audio clips or still images that can serve as reference material for universities, schools, social researchers and everybody who is interested to know more about the past, present and the future of the UAE.

During the first three days of the road-show, folkloric dance performances such as Al Yola, competitions and games, tasting of traditional dishes and showcasing of handicrafts will be held for the students. They can also get a glimpse of the past by visiting the photo exhibition taking place at the UAE University.

Other participating universities are Al Ghurair University, Dubai University, Higher Colleges of Technology, Zayed University, Sharjah University and Ajman University. The campaign starts from April 28 and lasts for a month.

Watani, the social development program, has launched the campaign on 'National Treasures' on Watani.tv portal to popularise the idea of sharing of video, audio clips and still images, whereby winners of the best uploaded material capturing the traditional attributes of the UAE are honoured with awards. Visitors and residents are also encouraged to share their footages on the portal.