Dubai students raise Dh720,000, give 9,000 kits to charity schools

Dubai students

A bustling Dubai school's PE hall reverberated with the lively energy of over 150 students gearing up to assemble 9,000 school kits on June 10. This enthusiasm marked the commencement of the "Students for Students" initiative, a campaign by Dubai Cares that raised Dh720,000 in its initial phase.

The initiative, spanning from June 10 to June 25, involves five participating schools across Dubai. Students will pack bags with essential school items such as stationery and books, aiming to support peers in need.

Among the eager volunteers was Noor Khalil, a Year 8 student, who joyfully contributed to the cause. She expressed excitement at the thought of bringing smiles to the faces of students receiving these well-stocked bags.

Similarly enthusiastic was Owen Rowlands, a Year 7 student from Raffles International School, who found fulfillment in knowing his efforts would aid those less fortunate. Amidst the organized chaos of packing, students worked collaboratively, swiftly passing items to one another.

The event not only showcased students' compassion but also fostered community engagement, with parent volunteers joining the effort. Esha Das, secretary for the parents' association of Raffles International School, highlighted the importance of collective action in supporting others, emphasizing the role of parents as role models for their children.

Steven Giles, Principal at Raffles International School, underscored the significance of empathy and solidarity, noting how the initiative instilled in students a sense of responsibility towards their peers from low-income backgrounds. He commended the collective efforts of students, teachers, and parents in making a meaningful impact.

The "Students for Students" initiative saw participation from 14 schools, including Al Ittihad Private School – Al Mamzar, GEMS Modern Academy, and Jumeirah Primary School, among others. These schools organized various fundraising events to gather funds for essential school supplies.

Abdulla Ahmed Alshehhi, Chief Operating Officer at Dubai Cares, praised the success of the initiative's first phase and hinted at the possibility of making it an annual event. He outlined the subsequent phases, including the distribution of assembled kits to charity schools before the academic year begins in August.

Overall, the "Students for Students" initiative exemplifies the power of collective action in fostering compassion and supporting educational equality among students in Dubai.