Abu Dhabi: Kalimat Group, in collaboration with Nestl© UAE and supported by the Ministry of Health and Prevention, has launched a cultural and humanitarian initiative titled 'A World of Stories'. The initiative aims to establish 120 libraries in children's wards, wings, and play areas across hospitals and medical centres throughout the UAE, reaffirming the Group's commitment to empowering children and promoting knowledge even in challenging circumstances.
According to Emirates News Agency, the initiative is the result of a Memorandum of Understanding signed between Kalimat and Nestl©, in response to the need for children in medical facilities to have access to a stimulating and enriching environment that combines learning and psychological support. It provides diverse educational and storytelling content that encourages reading and exploration while easing the impact of medical experiences.
The MoU was signed by Ahmad Al Ali, General Manager of Kalimat Group, and Hassan Atia, General Manager of Nestl© UAE, as part of a joint approach that integrates culture with mental health in community-based child initiatives. The initiative includes the establishment of 120 libraries containing 3,600 books - 30 books per library - covering educational and awareness topics for children such as healthy nutrition, recognising hunger and fullness cues, immunity, daily habits, as well as stories that promote positive thinking and self-learning. It also provides digital tablets equipped with interactive content.
Ahmad Al Ali said the initiative affirms Kalimat Group's commitment to its strategic vision of empowering children and enhancing their access to education and knowledge, especially in environments facing health or social challenges. He added, 'At Kalimat, we believe that books are true companions to children on their journey of healing and growth. Through our ongoing initiatives, we strive to provide educational and human-centred content that helps children overcome adversity and supports their mental and emotional well-being through reading and learning.'
This initiative represents a model of social innovation based on collaboration between the cultural and private sectors. It supports national efforts to create an integrated educational and cultural environment within hospitals, reinforces the role of reading in enhancing quality of life, and supports the psychological recovery of children.