In Al Ain, a variety of engaging activities have been organized to make the most of free time for children, youth, and young adults during the summer vacation. This initiative reflects the commitment of various institutions to enhance community engagement and support the developmental needs of younger generations. From educational camps to creative workshops, the offerings aim to provide productive and enriching experiences, maximizing leisure time with exciting programs and events.
Summer Camps for Skill Development
One notable initiative is the second Summer Camp 2025 launched by the College of Education at the United Arab Emirates University. This camp primarily targets the children of faculty members and students, representing the university’s efforts to foster skill development among young participants. This two-week camp features a daily schedule packed with interactive activities designed to develop skills in various fields such as mathematics, science, arts, and languages. The camp creates a balanced learning environment that combines fun with knowledge, encouraging creative thinking, teamwork, and effective communication.
Participating in this initiative are 27 students aged between 5 and 11, under the guidance of 16 specially selected teachers from the College of Education. These educators were chosen from a pool of 60 applicants, representing diverse specializations and educational stages. Dr. Ahmed Al Kaabi, the assistant dean for student affairs at the College of Education, highlighted the community-driven nature of the camp, stating, “We are committed to enhancing our societal role through interactive initiatives like this camp, which benefits not only the children but also gives our students a practical opportunity to hone their educational skills and sense of responsibility.” The college aims to expand this model into a comprehensive university project serving a wider community.
Diverse National Summer Program
Another exciting offering is the third edition of the National Summer Program 25, under the theme “Rest and Enjoy,” organized by the Mohammed bin Khalid Al Nahyan Association for Future Generations. This program includes a diverse array of entertainment, sports, and creative activities, along with sessions aimed at enhancing knowledge in artificial intelligence. Mariam Hamad Al Shamsi, the secretary general of the Mohammed bin Khalid Al Nahyan Cultural and Educational Institutions, remarked on the program’s focus, stating, “The national summer program this season is directed at the youth of Al Ain of all ages, aiming to enhance national identity and loyalty, especially within the context of the leadership’s announcement that 2025 is designated as the Year of Community.” The program targets various age groups, specifically girls aged 5 to 18 and boys aged 5 to 14, running from Monday to Thursday, which is dedicated to excursions.
This program not only aims to develop the participants’ skills but also encourages their intellectual and creative capabilities during the summer break. By productively utilizing their free time, participants deepen their knowledge and foster a passion for reading, sustainability, and cultural heritage, all while learning traditional crafts integral to the history and civilization of the UAE.
Programming Training Programs
Additionally, Al Ain has hosted the inaugural “Bسين” training program focused on teaching programming, a collaboration between the Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development and 42 Abu Dhabi Academy. This partnership aims to empower young talents and cultivate a new generation of coders and entrepreneurs, aligning with Abu Dhabi’s commitment to innovation and entrepreneurship. The program reflects a broader effort to equip youth with the necessary skills to thrive in a fast-paced technological world, enhancing their employability and entrepreneurial potential.