EAD And Emirates Nature-WWF Launch Initiative To Inspire UAE Youth In Green Careers

The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) and Emirates Nature-WWF have launched a Work Experience initiative to equip UAE youth for roles in environmental conservation. This programme, hosted at the Plant Genetic Resource Centre, offers hands-on learning in plant conservation. It aims to bridge the gap between academic learning and professional careers, encouraging active participation in sustainability efforts.

Participants of the Work Experience come from diverse backgrounds, including youth of determination. They engage in practical conservation work alongside scientists at the UAE Plant Genetic Resource Centre. This initiative not only prepares them for future careers but also empowers them to take on leadership roles today.

Ahmed Baharoon, Executive Director at EAD, stated, "Through this Work Experience initiative, we are creating meaningful pathways for youth to discover their passion, build skills, and take ownership of the UAE’s conservation journey. It’s not just about preparing them for future careers – it’s about giving them the opportunity to lead today."

Arabella Willing from Emirates Nature–WWF added, "The Connect with Nature Work Experience is where curiosity meets action. We’re giving young people the tools to become leaders in conservation – not in the future, but right now. They’re not just learning about biodiversity; they’re helping protect it."

Mouza Alharrasi, a participant, shared her experience: "I've learned a lot…Everything is very specific around the native species: we got to work closely with certain (plant study) technologies... I'm grateful for this experience, and it has truly been enriching." The programme provides an immersive environment where students apply classroom knowledge to real-world conservation tasks.

Fatima Hanina expressed her enthusiasm: "I’m feeling [compelled] to work here more than four days… I’m more curious than before and, also, I realise that this is the type of work I'd like to continue in the future as well. So, this is like the perfect work experience." Her words highlight how such experiences can shape career aspirations.

Impact on Future Generations

Over five years, Connect with Nature has involved over 14,000 youth through various activities like field trips and citizen science projects. These initiatives aim to foster leadership skills and a deeper understanding of environmental issues among young people. By engaging youth early on, these programmes hope to inspire a new generation of conservation leaders.

This initiative exemplifies how practical experiences can ignite passion and commitment towards environmental stewardship among young individuals in the UAE. By providing opportunities for active involvement in sustainability efforts today, it lays a foundation for continued engagement in conservation activities tomorrow.

With inputs from WAM