DUBAI, 13th October, 2023 (WAM) — The Ministry of Education (MoE) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority, solidifying their commitment to involving children in environmental sustainability initiatives and advancing green education programs for a richer educational experience.
The MoU was signed by Dr. Mohammed Ibrahim Al Mu’alla, Undersecretary of Academic Affairs for Higher Education in the MoE, and Sana Mohammad Suhail, Director-General of the Authority, on the sidelines of the meeting of the second National Committee for Green Education, which the Authority hosted.
According to the MoU, both parties will cooperate in several areas. This partnership entails the selection and engagement of international speakers to participate in events during the forthcoming COP28 conference, specifically highlighting the importance of a comprehensive approach to green education.
Furthermore, it involves integrating green education into kindergartens and nurseries through cooperative efforts, establishing a rigorous accreditation process for these institutions, and developing specialised educational materials explicitly tailored for kindergarten and nursery teachers. These materials are designed under climate education principles, with the overarching goal of enhancing children’s knowledge and skills in matters related to climate and sustainability.
The MoU will also contribute to empowering kindergarten teachers and involving them in the intended programmes and activities, recognising the importance of their contribution as part of the broader education community. Additionally, the Authority will launch initiatives tailored to children and their teachers through the National Green Education Committee, chaired by the ministry.
Dr. Al Mu’alla stressed that the memorandum would contribute to boosting cooperation between the ministry and the Authority, paving the way for advanced levels, which will profoundly impact green education and the development of knowledge and skills of a key age group of children.
Dr. Al Mu’alla added that the ministry and the Authority are aligned in their vision, emphasising the importance of a holistic strategy to nurture children from their early years based on robust educational and scientific principles, preparing generations for the future and its challenges and opportunities.
He stated, “We look forward to the COP28 conference offering children an effective platform for expressing their views on climate change. This conference presents an opportunity to cultivate their environmental awareness and reinforce the importance of sustainability in their behaviour. We are committed to continuing developing pedagogical and educational experiences in preschool centres and kindergartens by providing resources and materials that align with the principles of climate education and the Green Education Partnership, empowering children to actively contribute to creating a sustainable future and societies.”
Suhail stressed that green education is essential to educational practices that aim to enhance environmental awareness and develop the skills necessary for sustainable living, such as preserving the environment and natural resources.
Together with various partners, the Authority and the ministry are dedicated to advancing early childhood development, empowering children, and promoting green education for sustainability and awareness.
He said, “Our investment in early childhood development effectively contributes to building a generation capable of facing future challenges and contributing to achieving sustainable development. This is an important opportunity to lay strong development foundations for the younger generations by providing an appropriate and supportive educational environment for children, allocating the necessary resources, and developing policies and programmes that enhance this vital sector to achieve a better future for all children.”
