The Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation for Medical and Educational Sciences has promoted sustainability awareness among families through an interactive workshop for gifted students and their parents as part of Al Maqeedh Season 2026.

The initiative was delivered by the Hamdan Bin Rashid Centre for Giftedness and Innovation following an invitation from the Community Development Authority (CDA). The workshop, titled “The Sustainable City,” focused on experiential learning and encouraged families to explore practical approaches to environmental and community challenges.

Designed as a collaborative family learning experience, the workshop introduced participants to the principles of sustainability and the fundamentals of sustainable urban development through simulations, hands-on activities and interactive challenges.

Students and parents worked together in teams to examine issues based on real-world urban challenges and develop solutions aimed at balancing economic development, social wellbeing and environmental protection.

The programme also focused on translating sustainability concepts into everyday practices. Participants were encouraged to consider their individual and collective roles in conserving resources, protecting the environment and making responsible decisions.

The workshop highlighted the importance of collaboration, critical thinking and shared decision-making when addressing complex environmental and community issues.

Connecting Sustainability With UAE Heritage

The programme also linked modern sustainability principles with the UAE's cultural heritage and traditional approaches to resource conservation, adaptation to the natural environment and responsible resource use.

Bringing students and parents together in a shared educational setting was intended to encourage intergenerational dialogue and strengthen sustainable practices within households, positioning families as an important part of wider community sustainability efforts.

H.E. Dr Khalifa Al Suwaidi, Executive Director of the Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation for Medical and Educational Sciences, said that sustainability awareness among younger generations should extend beyond theoretical knowledge and become part of everyday behaviour.

He added that the Foundation is focused on creating interactive learning opportunities that allow students and families to examine real-world challenges, make informed decisions and develop practical solutions that consider economic, social and environmental factors.

Dr Al Suwaidi also highlighted the value of involving parents in the learning process, saying that shared educational experiences can strengthen communication between generations and encourage responsible practices at home.

Al Maqeedh Season 2026

Al Maqeedh Season 2026 is a flagship initiative of the Ministry of Community Empowerment aimed at making productive use of the summer vacation through workshops, training programmes and community activities for different age groups.

The programme focuses on areas including National Identity and Heritage, Financial Literacy, Health and Wellbeing, Community Cohesion, Leadership and Personal Development, Technology and Cybersecurity, and Entrepreneurship and Investment.

Through these activities, the initiative seeks to develop practical skills, promote lifelong learning and strengthen community engagement.

The Foundation's participation forms part of its wider efforts to provide educational experiences that connect classroom knowledge with practical application while encouraging family and community involvement in sustainable development.

Hamdan Bin Rashid Foundation Al Maqeedh Season 2026 sustainability awareness UAE Dubai education gifted students UAE family learning sustainable cities UAE sustainability Community Development