The National Academy for Childhood Development has launched the winter edition of its Generation 71 programme in partnership with the UAE Ministry of Family. The initiative aims to support Emirati children by strengthening national values and developing practical life skills.
Following strong participation in the summer edition, which involved more than 322 children from across the UAE, the winter programme will run during the school holiday period. Sessions are taking place in Abu Dhabi until 18 December and in the Al Dhafra Region from 22 to 25 December.
Hessa Abdulrahman Tahlak, Assistant Undersecretary for the Development Sector at the Ministry of Family, said: “Our collaboration with the National Academy for Childhood Development is vital for delivering qualitative programmes as part of our comprehensive efforts to cultivate capable generations, deeply rooted in Emirati values and national identity, and empowered to effectively lead the future. Investing in our youth means planting the seeds for the future and embodies the leadership’s vision to position the family as a cornerstone of national development. Generation 71 supports families and extends its vital guiding role in instilling profound values and culture.”
Her Excellency Dr Meera AlKaabi, Acting President of the National Academy for Childhood Development, said: “Generation 71 reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting Emirati families and strengthening their educational role, through meaningful content that reinforces national values and helps shape a conscious, responsible Emirati child. This aligns with the UAE’s vision, which places investment in children and families as a priority to ensure sustainable development for the future.”
The winter programme offers two learning tracks. “Nash’ Al Dar” is designed for children aged six to ten, while “Al Shabab Al Bani” is aimed at young people aged eleven to fourteen. Both tracks include interactive workshops that support national identity, encourage positive behaviour and build essential life skills. The programme is delivered in Arabic, free of charge, with separate sessions for boys and girls. Participants receive a certificate on completion.
The programme for girls focuses on identity and skill-building through activities linked to local customs and heritage. Workshops include preparing simple traditional Emirati dishes, learning basic safety and emergency response, and a field visit that explores majlis etiquette, traditional clothing and Emirati hospitality.
The boys’ programme centres on responsibility, independence and national identity. Activities introduce participants to Emirati hospitality and etiquette, traditional cultural arts such as Al-Youla and Al-Razfa, falconry, Arabic coffee preparation and basic home maintenance skills.
The programme takes its name from the year 1971, marking the founding of the UAE. Generation 71 reflects the importance of preserving the legacy of the Founding Fathers while preparing young people to play an active role in the nation’s future.
Further details about Generation 71 and registration information are available through the National Academy for Childhood Development’s social media channels.