ABU DHABI // Schoolchildren across the country will learn about the environment through specially designed online classes next term.
Featuring the animated characters Hamad and Ayesha, the Be’ati Watani (My Environment, My Country) programme is designed for youngsters between the ages of 6 and 14.
Through interactive activities, it aims to teach them about wildlife and environmental issues in the UAE, such as climate change and conservation.
The programme will be run by the Emirates Wildlife Society and the World Wildlife Fund (EWS-WWF).
“Environmental education is an important element of sustainable development and we are calling on teachers to continue to support the implementation of this exciting and interactive programme across UAE schools,” said Ajita Nayar, the education manager at EWS-WWF.
“By helping children improve their knowledge about our natural environment, we are creating motivated individuals who are passionate about protecting our planet from an early age.
“Children who are taught good environmental habits continue these actions into adulthood, therefore having a positive impact on environmental conservation in the long term.”
During the past academic year, 54,500 UAE students took part in Be’ati Watani when it was rolled out across 200 schools and supported by more than 300 teachers.
The programme hopes to spark children’s interest in conservation and help to preserve the UAE’s natural heritage.
Be’ati Watani is endorsed by the Ministry of Education, supported by the Environment Agency Abu Dhabi, and sponsored by Dolphin Energy.
ksinclair@thenational.ae