Event on education, youth takes Zayed's vision forward

Sheikh Mohamed Bin Khalifa graces the opening of the fifth edition of the Education Interface Exhibition and the Middle East Youth Forum. - KT photo by Ryan Lim

Education was of top priority for the UAE's founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
"The greatest use that can be made of wealth is to invest it in creating generations of educated and trained people. The real asset of any advanced nation is its people, especially the educated ones, and the prosperity and success of the people are measured by the standard of their education," Sheikh Zayed had said.
His words of wisdom echoed loud and clear, as the fifth edition of Education Interface Exhibition and Middle East Youth Forum began in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday.
The du Forum venue was packed with educationalists, scholars, students, teachers and parents from local and global universities. Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Nahyan in the opening address noted that he was amid the brightest minds of the country. "The UAE Vision 2021 aims to make the country among the best in the world. Such events are making sure that we are following the right path. Educated people are the country's biggest treasure. By hosting such events, we are following Sheikh Zayed's vision."
He noted that with such a vast variety of educational institutes at one place served as a golden opportunity for people to seek career advice. "They can choose their path from this event. They can know where they will be in the market," he said.
Apart from sundry universities from across the UAE, government entities had pavilions at the exhibition. The Department of Urban Planning and Municipalities even had instructors to help students with blueprints of the various projects. Apart from the exhibitors showcasing their educational programmes, scholarships and grant schemes, there was also a host of inspirational programmes, workshops and seminars being held.
There was vlogger Hameed Yousuf, who opened the stage events with a message to "adapt to change" in the age of technology. He stressed on the need to collaborate ideas, inspire others and share knowledge. "This is a good platform for everyone to start collaborating on initiatives."
The event, held under the slogan 'Organise, Educate, Innovate' saw talks on future of education, motivational speeches on tolerance, resilience and happiness.
The two-day event is being held under the patronage of Lieutenant General Sheikh Saif Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior. The Ministry of Interior is the event's strategic partner, with the Ministry of Education providing support.
Sheikha Dr Shamma bint Mohammed Al Nahyan, chair of Sheikh Mohammed Bin Khalid Al Nahyan Organisations, attended the exhibition. Colonel Waleed Al Shamesi, director general of the Police College in Abu Dhabi, said such events play a crucial role in helping the youth make the right academic decisions.
"The event helps them know the best and most relevant institutions, programmes, scholarships and grants. Our participation in these events demonstrates our commitment to promoting public-private partnerships that will have a positive impact throughout society."
ashwani@khaleejtimes.com

• Abu Dhabi