Arab Reading Challenge Engages 28 Million Students From 229,000 Schools Across 50 Countries

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, highlighted the significance of the Arab Reading Challenge. He stated that it demonstrates the readiness of new generations to uphold Arab civilisation and its enduring language. The 8th edition's winners will be honoured on 23rd October at Dubai Opera.

The Arab Reading Challenge has seen remarkable participation in its eighth year. Over 28 million students from 229,000 schools across 50 countries have engaged in this initiative. His Highness expressed pride in this generation's renewed interest in reading, believing their knowledge and hope will guide them into the future.

Mohammad bin Abdullah Al Gergawi, Secretary-General of Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI), noted the challenge's growth since its launch by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed in 2015. It has attracted over 131 million students and numerous schools and teachers across eight editions. This success is attributed to prioritising human capital and empowering youth through reading.

Al Gergawi added, "The Arab Reading Challenge continues its trajectory of success. In its eighth season, it has established itself as a model ecosystem for knowledge competitions, engaging millions of passionate students and promoting reading as a catalyst for cultural exchange and a brighter future."

The ceremony will not only honour the ‘Arab Reading Champion 2024’ but also recognise the People of Determination Champion, Best School, Outstanding Supervisor, and Community Champion. The winner of the Arab Reading Champion title receives AED500,000, while second and third place winners receive AED100,000 and AED70,000 respectively.

In the People of Determination category, the champion receives AED200,000. Second and third place winners get AED100,000 and AED50,000 respectively. Participants include Saif Nabil Zein from Qatar and Abdullah Jaafar Baqer from Bahrain among others.

Recognising Schools

The Best School award goes to institutions excelling in participation and initiatives encouraging reading. The top school wins AED1 million; second and third places receive AED500,000 and AED300,000 respectively. Competing schools include Al-Khawarizmi Primary School for Girls in Qatar and Sitra Secondary School for Girls in Bahrain.

The Outstanding Supervisor award acknowledges those who inspire a love for reading among students. The first-place winner receives AED300,000; second and third place winners get AED100,000 and AED50,000 respectively. Qualifying supervisors come from various countries including Nashwa Saad Ahmed from Qatar.

Continued Success

The Arab Reading Challenge's unprecedented participation reflects its ongoing success since inception. Each edition sees increased involvement globally with a total of 131 million students participating across eight editions from 795,000 schools guided by 716,000 supervisors.

Launched during the academic year 2015-2016 under His Highness Sheikh Mohammed's directives, the challenge aims to foster a love for reading among future generations. It encourages learning about other cultures while promoting tolerance through open dialogue worldwide.

With inputs from WAM