Post by : Badri Ariffin

Today, the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood in the UAE commemorated World Children’s Day with a significant event at its Abu Dhabi office, focusing on the 2025 Emirati Children’s Day theme: The Right to Identity and National Culture. This initiative reflects the UAE's unwavering dedication to safeguarding children’s rights while reinforcing their sense of belonging.

Marked globally on November 20, World Children’s Day celebrates the principles of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. This year’s gathering was in line with national movements under Wadeema’s Law and the UAE Year of Community that promote unity, social cohesion, and active participation in society.

Throughout the year, the council has collaborated with various partners across government, education, culture, and community sectors to instill the values related to Emirati Children’s Day. These efforts aim to help youth appreciate their national identity, emphasizing how cultural awareness contributes to personality development, self-assurance, and social engagement.

The theme underscores the child’s right to engage with their heritage, encompassing the Arabic language along with traditional arts and practices. The council pointed out that cultural engagement supports healthy growth, providing children with a platform to express themselves and interact confidently, fostering a robust sense of self.

This year’s activities also focus on fostering intergenerational connections, encouraging children and older adults to share stories, document cultural practices, and preserve traditions in formats that resonate with younger audiences. Additionally, the council advocated for promoting reading in Arabic to strengthen children’s ties to their mother tongue, supporting initiatives that honor Emirati heritage, including poetry, proverbs, Al-Ayala, Al-Harbiya, Al-Taghrooda, and traditional crafts.

The council pointed out that nurturing a cultural identity enhances academic performance, emotional health, and family connections. Children rooted in their culture typically cultivate deeper relationships, show resilience, and develop a more inclusive worldview.

Moreover, the council introduced its newly published Emirati Children’s Day Guide, detailing how cultural participation aids children in comprehending their surroundings while bolstering empathy and respect for others. These initiatives ensure that upcoming generations carry forward the UAE’s rich heritage with pride, confidence, and a profound sense of belonging.

#Global News