In a significant effort to preserve the rich cultural heritage of the UAE, the Sharjah Social Services Department has launched the initiative “اختصاصي سنع إماراتي.” This program aims to instill traditional values in the hearts of young children in Sharjah’s nurseries. With the motto “في حضن الجدة مودة تحمي وحكاية تبنى,” this initiative leverages the wisdom and experiences of mothers and grandmothers from the “العلم نور” program, who completed their adult literacy courses over a span of seven years. The project not only emphasizes education but also aims to create a nurturing environment where the UAE’s heritage is celebrated and transmitted to the younger generation.
Emphasizing Sustainable Education
Naima Al Zarouni, the Director of Social Education at the department and the supervisor of the initiative, explained how “اختصاصي سنع إماراتي” aligns with the broader goal of “العلم نور,” which focuses on sustainable education for seniors. Under the motto “نمكن لجودة تُعاش وأثر يُلهم,” this initiative allows older individuals to continue their engagement with the community after completing their non-formal education. The core objective is to empower older adults to play an active role in society by imparting UAE heritage and values to children in an interactive manner.
Empowering Seniors to Mentor
Al Zarouni stated, “The goal of the initiative is to enable seniors to engage with children in Sharjah’s nurseries, nurturing values and reviving traditions. We want to enhance love for storytelling, where grandmothers can share tales from the beautiful past and teach children about the crafts and occupations that were prevalent in earlier times.” She noted that, despite the abundance of diverse cultures nowadays and the allure of modern technology, many children find themselves distanced from their heritage, becoming unaware of their cultural roots.
Engaging Young Children in Cultural Activities
The Social Services Department recognized the need for this initiative to help foster a deep appreciation for traditions among today’s youth. The program is structured in four phases: the first focuses on selecting seniors with expertise in UAE traditions; the second involves designing interactive programs and activities; the third implements these workshops within the local community; and the final phase will evaluate and enhance the impact of the initiative, which aims to continue for several years.
Initial feedback has been promising, with four workshops executed so far, including an inaugural session that focused on holiday greetings. Children learned various greetings such as “عيدكم مبارك,” along with etiquette regarding traditional Emirati clothing and the customs associated with holiday greetings. For instance, a workshop on greetings allowed children to role-play as guests and hosts, fostering interactive learning.
The second workshop centered on Emirati attire, promoting national identity and pride in traditional clothing. Conversations between children and grandmothers highlighted the differences between older and contemporary attire. The third workshop showcased hospitality, teaching children correct methods for serving coffee through interactive enactments. Finally, the fourth workshop focused on instilling a sense of patriotism and love for the homeland. Children learned the UAE national anthem to strengthen their emotional connection to their country from a young age.