In a significant step toward enhancing community safety and awareness, Sheikh Zayed Bin Hamad has inaugurated a workshop focused on security and safety. This workshop, organized by the National Anti-Drug Agency, launched in Abu Dhabi and will be held over three days until December 24, 2025. It brings together esteemed partners and specialists from various state ministries, relevant government agencies, and experts both locally and internationally.
Opening Remarks by Sheikh Zayed Bin Hamad Al Nahyan
The workshop was officially inaugurated by His Excellency Sheikh Zayed Bin Hamad Al Nahyan, the head of the National Anti-Drug Agency. During the opening discussions, he emphasized the nation’s commitment, guided by its wise leadership, to bolster the security and safety ecosystem. This initiative aligns with national strategies and policies designed to foster collaboration among stakeholders, reinforcing efforts to establish preventive concepts, promote safe and responsible behaviors, and nurture a culture of prevention across all community segments.
The Role of Family and Education
His Excellency elaborated that the foundation of the security and safety system begins within the family, recognized as the primary nurturing ground. It then integrates with educational institutions through a student guide to ensure unified educational messages, achieving a lasting preventive impact throughout various educational stages. He noted that the National Anti-Drug Agency had developed this guide in collaboration with relevant partners to create a comprehensive educational framework that addresses students’ psychological and physical safety, digital security, behavioral values, and the prevention of social and behavioral risks.
Investing in Awareness for Future Generations
“We believe that awareness is the first line of defense, and that investing in families and schools represents the true investment in the security of our nation and the future of its children and residents,” said His Excellency. He expressed his hopes for divine guidance to lead everyone toward the welfare of the nation, praying for the safety of its leadership and people.
Dr. Lameya Al Zaabi’s Insights
During the first day’s discussions, Dr. Lameya Al Zaabi from the National Anti-Drug Agency highlighted that this workshop marks the first phase in executing initiatives announced by Sheikh Zayed Bin Hamad Al Nahyan during the annual meetings of the UAE government. She characterized the workshop as a specialized platform for knowledge exchange and scientific brainstorming aimed at reviewing best practices and experiences in the realms of security, safety, and prevention.
Comprehensive Overview of Security and Safety Guidelines
The sessions of the first day provided an extensive overview of the security and safety guidelines. This encompassed objectives, visions, and work strategies, as well as mechanisms for integrating the subject into educational curricula. Furthermore, the preliminary concept for the “Security and Safety” material was discussed, ensuring it connects appropriately with different educational stages, thus guaranteeing cognitive and educational progression according to the needs of each level.
Looking ahead, the workshop is set to continue over the next two days, featuring specialized sessions and interactive workshops aimed at formulating advanced recommendations and insights, which will contribute to the development of security and safety material and reinforce its role in community protection.