Abu dhabi: The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) and Emirates Nature-WWF, co-founding partners of Connect with Nature, have introduced a new Work Experience initiative aimed at preparing UAE youth for roles in environmental conservation and sustainability. Hosted at the Plant Genetic Resource Centre, managed by EAD, this initiative offers participants the chance to engage in national plant conservation efforts.
According to Emirates News Agency, the program provided 20 UAE youth the opportunity to participate in hands-on learning alongside scientists and experts at the UAE Plant Genetic Resource Centre. This immersive experience included youth of different ages, backgrounds, and nationalities, including youth of determination, and aimed to bridge the gap between classroom education and professional pathways. Participants applied their academic knowledge to real-world conservation work, serving as a springboard toward active involvement in the UAE’s sustainability efforts.
Ahmed Baharoon, Executive Director of Environment Information, Science and Outreach Management Sector at EAD, emphasized the initiative’s role in creating pathways for youth to discover their passion and build skills, stating that it offers them the opportunity to lead in the conservation journey. Arabella Willing, Head of Conservation Outreach and Citizen Science at Emirates Nature-WWF, highlighted that the Work Experience equips young people to become leaders in conservation immediately, rather than in the future.
Participants like Mouza Alharrasi and Fatima Hanina expressed their gratitude and enthusiasm for the experience, noting the valuable skills and insights gained. Over the past five years, Connect with Nature has engaged more than 14,000 youth through various conservation activities, further promoting environmental leadership among the young population.