The school community from 12 schools across Dubai came together to participate in the second phase of Dubai Cares’ Students For Students initiative, packing 9,000 school kits for children from low-income families in the UAE. This event involved 3,573 student volunteers, along with teachers, parents, and family members who generously volunteered their time to support the education of underprivileged children.
In the initial phase, students from various schools in Dubai organised diverse fundraising events such as spring fairs, bake sales, and games, which collectively raised over Dhs 700,000. Dubai Cares, part of Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI), utilised these funds to procure essential school supplies including school bags and stationery.
Abdulla Ahmed Alshehhi, Chief Operating Officer at Dubai Cares, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming spirit and dedication shown by the community across participating schools. Abdulla Ahmed Alshehhi acknowledged the significant impact of their efforts, emphasising how they will positively influence the lives of many children by ensuring they have the necessary tools for a successful academic year.
The participating schools in the first phase included Al Ittihad Private School, Al Mamzar; Collegiate International School; Dubai International Academy, Al Barsha; Dubai International Academy, Emirates Hills; GEMS Legacy School; GEMS Modern Academy; Jumeirah College; Jumeirah Primary School; Nord Anglia International School Dubai; Raffles International School; Raffles World Academy; Safa Community School; The Indian International School; and The Millennium School. Among these, 12 schools organised school packing activities.
Arianna Abraham, a student at Jumeirah College, shared her enthusiasm for participating in the school packing activity, describing it as a unifying experience across different age groups. Arianna Abraham noted the personal touch added by students who crafted handwritten postcards and ensured meticulous packing of the school kits.
Leanne Fridd, Principal of Safa Community School, expressed pride in the school community's collaboration with Dubai Cares. Leanne Fridd commended the students for their leadership in organising the Spring Fayre, which raised over Dhs 80,000, and for their diligent packing of over 1,000 school kits.
Adele Martini, Geography Teacher and Grade 6 Leader at Dubai International Academy, encouraged more schools to join the Students For Students initiative, highlighting its benefits for both school communities and the recipient communities.
Dubai Cares plans to distribute the school kits to various charity schools and organisations in the UAE, including the Al Etihad Charity Foundation, Al Ihsan Charity Association, Hemaya Schools, and National Charity Schools. These organisations will ensure that the school kits reach students in need before the start of the new academic year.
In conclusion, Dubai Cares’ Students For Students initiative exemplifies the power of collective action and community engagement in addressing educational inequalities and supporting vulnerable children in the UAE.