Unique Environmental Awareness Programme Launched in Abu Dhabi Schools

An environmental awareness programme that educates students about the UAE’s natural environment has once again been launched for the academic year in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. 125,000 students from government and private schools participated in the programme last year and organizers and sponsors say they are very pleased with the positive response from teachers, parents and the students themselves.

The programme, entitled ‘The Enviro-Spellathon’, was launched today, Sunday 12 February 2006, by the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) in a ceremony at the Beach Rotana Hotel & Towers. The programme has been implemented in schools for the past 4 years and is sponsored by Shell Abu Dhabi.

Speaking at the ceremony, Dr Mohamed Defrawi, Managing Director of Shell Abu Dhabi said, “We are proud to play a role in raising environmental awareness amongst young students. Shell is very much aware of the impact environmental issues have on our lives, and we know these young people will play a key role in spreading this message to their family, friends and community”.

Embodying a unique concept, it has caught on well with students and received much praise from parents and students. It is unique because it grows with the child, adapting to the grade level they are in. The main aim is to instill in these young students, ages 6-12, an appreciation and understanding of pressing environmental issues in the UAE. The themes covered this year are: Waste, Water, Wildlife of the City, Wildlife of the Desert and Marine life.
Another aim is to encourage sound environmental behavior in the students who can, in turn, influence the attitude of their classmates, parents and siblings at home. Moreover, the programme helps improve the students’ spelling skills through tests and fun spelling activities.