How the UAE is reading the future

A wealth of thought goes into the making of a knowledge economy. The UAE has ambitions to become a superpower of wisdom that thrives on research and development. Arab thought, inventions and philosophy once ruled the world and the UAE hopes to revive that glorious era when learning took centrestage. Ancient Arabs travelled the world and influenced art, cuisine and culture. They took from a wealth of traditions, while giving back in equal measure. They developed a vision for a prosperous future, which has not been realised due to conflicts and natural disasters. Sectarianism has crept it and damaged the path to progress over centuries. The UAE now wants to fulfil Arab potential in the best traditions of yore. It wants to open minds and spread wisdom. It is keen to learn, seek and find. More importantly, this country believes in co-existence, tolerance, and above all, happiness. Prosperity is nothing if you keep it to yourself.
What's interesting is that it is going back to the basics. No thought can be formed, no discovery made without books. You learn, read, inspire and gain wisdom. The country's Rulers announced that 2016 would be Year of Reading. The nation is returning to its books, e-readers, tablets or smartphones, to understand, study and not be swayed. Technology has made the process easier, and the Rulers are encouraging people to be inspired by what their read and innovate to their heart's content for the progress of humankind. It will soon become a national policy and a law will be passed, according to a report. Targets have been set and the programme will be implemented over 10 years. Ministries have got together for this initiative and plans have been rolled out across sectors and age groups. His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, said: ''Inculcating reading in the minds of the next generation is long term work, and it has a deep effect." The fruits of this work will be seen over a decade in people's minds when they serve as instruments of peace and prosperity.