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Call for energy conservation lessons in school curriculum

Two top officials of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy (DSCE) have called for the introduction of energy conservation lessons in the UAE schools’ curricula. The officials opined that there is a need to inculcate the habit of preserving resources among the youth.

Speaking at a Press conference to announce the Emirates Energy Awards (EEA 2014-15) in Dubai on Sunday, they stressed on the need for incorporating lessons on electricity and water conservation in school curricula here.

Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Vice-Chairman of DSCE, and President of EEA, said officials submitted the recommendation to the Ministry of Education (MoE). “We have addressed this to the ministry. We wish that this subject is adopted as part of the curricula ... at least in the primary classes,” said Al Tayer, who is also the MD and CEO of the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (Dewa), said.

“We wish that the message from the DSCE will be considered to change the behaviour and habits of youngsters ... We need education, we need awareness ... especially among the young generation,” he said in response to a media query.

Ahmed Butti Al Muhairbi, Secretary-General of the DSCE, later told Khaleej Times that all awareness campaigns must start with children.

Though energy conservation is being taught in many schools, he noted that it is not part of the curricula in many schools. “We want to script it into the education curriculum,” he said.

The officials said it was up to the Ministry of Education and other education authorities to take a call on the recommendation.

EEA 2014-15

The EEA aims to encourage the optimal use of energy sources, and highlight the best practices and pioneering efforts in the fields of energy efficiency and security, and alternative and clean energy.

Al Tayer explained that nominations for the award — which has prizes worth Dh1 million — is open for organisations, individuals, and teams, noting that nominations must be for projects implemented in the Mena region.

There are seven categories in the EEA: Energy Efficiency in the Public Sector; Energy Efficiency in the Private Sector; Large Energy Project; Small Energy Project; Education and Capacity Building; Young Professional Energy Award; and the Special Recognition Award. Each of the first six awards has Gold, Silver and Bronze categories. The deadline for applying for the EEA is January 30, 2015. Eligible projects must be in operation for at least one year.

—sajila@khaleejtimes.com