The recent announcement by Sheikha Jawahir bint Mohammed Al Qasimi marks a significant advancement for “Al Qalb Al Kabeer” in Morocco, focusing on transformative development initiatives that underscore the importance of nurturing young minds and fostering community resilience. These efforts aim to establish a robust foundation for societal stability and prosperity, illustrating a deep commitment to empowering individuals through quality education and economic opportunities.
Sheikha Jawahir, the wife of the ruler of Sharjah and a prominent advocate for refugee children with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, emphasized that the most valuable investment lies in shaping the minds of children and developing the thoughts of youth. “When we plant confidence in children and responsibility in youth, we are gifting our nation its true future,” she stated. This assertion reflects the core belief driving “Al Qalb Al Kabeer,” which seeks to foster capability as the bedrock of all development.
Additionally, Sheikha Jawahir highlighted the partnership with Moroccan institutions as a testament to a long-standing commitment to development cooperation, believing that real achievements blossom when communities have the ability to carry the banner of progress. “Our partnerships with Morocco serve as a model for the Arab world, transforming cooperation into productive energy and knowledge,” she noted, exemplifying the exemplary synergy between the two regions.
During her recent visit to Morocco, Sheikha Jawahir officially launched a series of new development projects through “Al Qalb Al Kabeer.” These initiatives span various sectors, including education, economic empowerment, and protection for women and children. Notably, the revitalization of the S.O.S Primary School in Marrakech and the youth empowerment project in the Atlas Mountains stand out as key components of this driven effort.
In Marrakech, Sheikha Jawahir inaugurated the “Empowering Children and Youth in Marrakech” project in collaboration with the Global S.O.S Children’s Villages organization. This initiative aims to create a modern, safe educational environment for over 500 children. The project includes a comprehensive renovation of the Ete Ourir primary school, upgrading classrooms, sanitation facilities, and equipping the school with a state-of-the-art digital laboratory and modern library.
Furthermore, it features the establishment of the “Innovators in Plastic Recycling” center, intended to train 100 young individuals in green economy skills, product design, and environmental entrepreneurship. This initiative receives technical support from specialists in environmental innovation, ensuring that this center becomes a sustainable training platform for future generations.
In the Atlas region, “Al Qalb Al Kabeer” launched the “Emerging Roots in Morocco” project in collaboration with the High Atlas Foundation. This ambitious initiative aims to train 24 young men and women from diverse Moroccan regions through an 18-month program that combines environmental education, practical agricultural training, and community entrepreneurship. Participants will engage in hands-on training at two model educational farms before designing and implementing their environmentally themed projects, supported by small grants from “Al Qalb Al Kabeer.”
The outcome is expected to produce six innovative youth-led initiatives in areas such as green development and the circular economy, benefiting over 600 individuals in rural communities. This aligns with Morocco’s “Green Generation 2020–2030” vision and the United Nations’ sustainable development goals, reinforcing “Al Qalb Al Kabeer’s” belief that environmental protection is intrinsically linked to human empowerment.
Concluding her visit, Sheikha Jawahir reaffirmed the commitment of “Al Qalb Al Kabeer” to continue collaborating with local partners in Morocco to expand the reach of developmental efforts. “We are proud to be among our people in Morocco, drawing strength and creativity from their resilience to continue our endeavors… When goodwill is built through partnership, it becomes deeper and wider in impact,” she remarked, cementing the ongoing dedication to fostering meaningful change in the region.