Recognition for Participants in the Mountains Initiative

Sharjah Celebrates a Decade of Environmental Commitment at Khorfakkan Ceremony

On a sunny Wednesday in early October 2024, the Environmental Protection Authority of Sharjah (EPAA) held a momentous closing ceremony to mark the tenth edition of the beloved Environmental Awareness Initiative for Visitors to Mountains. The event took place at the Cultural Centre in the picturesque city of Khorfakkan, gathering esteemed officials and community members to celebrate a decade of environmental advocacy and achievements.

Among the notable attendees were Her Excellency Hana Saif Al Suwaidi, the charismatic Chairman of EPAA, and His Excellency Dr. Mohammed Al Murr, Chairman of the Municipal Council of Khorfakkan. The ceremony also welcomed a range of officials and representatives from various governmental bodies, all of whom share a vested interest in the protection of the majestic mountainous regions of Sharjah’s Eastern Region.

Driving Change Through Community Engagement

Awatif Al Naqbi, a prominent figure involved in organizing the initiative, took the stage to express gratitude to the strategic partners who had committed their resources and time toward this critical environmental mission. Al Naqbi emphasized that this anniversary is not just a celebration but a testament to the initiative’s success in instilling a culture of environmental awareness.

“Over the last decade, we have made significant strides in educating the public on the importance of preserving our natural surroundings,” Al Naqbi stated in an exclusive discussion with Sharjah 24. She further elaborated that since the initiative’s inception, they have rolled out numerous field campaigns that focused on cleaning 15 mountain sites across different cities in the region.

Moreover, the initiative has successfully engaged with more than 30 schools, where it held awareness events and campaigns aimed at educating young minds about sustainability and environmental stewardship. This hands-on approach not only reinforces the importance of maintaining the beautiful landscapes of Sharjah but also cultivates a sense of responsibility among the youth.

A Showcase of Achievements

The ceremony featured a vibrant environmental exhibition, where visitors could engage with visual displays and learn more about the initiative’s impact over the years. A highlight of the event was the screening of a documentary that encapsulated the achievements and milestones from the previous editions. The film provided a powerful narrative about community involvement and the tangible benefits of prioritizing environmental health.

In a delightful addition to the program, students from the Atika Bint Zaid School presented an environmental show that creatively illustrated the significance of preserving mountains and wildlife. Their performance underscored the educational foundation that the initiative aims to build among future generations.

To cap off the event, more than 50 partner institutions were honored for their support and collaboration over the years. This recognition not only celebrated their commitment to the cause but also encouraged continued partnerships for future initiatives aimed at safeguarding the environment.

Continuing the Mission Forward

As the ceremony came to a close, the collective sentiment was one of fulfillment, but also an understanding that the work is far from over. The challenges of climate change and environmental degradation persist, and initiatives like this are vital for promoting public engagement and action.

For attendees and participants, this event was a call to arms, marking what they hope to be renewed vigor in environmental conservation efforts throughout Sharjah and beyond. Attendees departed with a better understanding of not only the achievements of the past ten years but also the potential for future initiatives that can put Sharjah on the map as a model for environmental responsibility.

Wrapping Up

The tenth edition of the Environmental Awareness Initiative in Sharjah reflects a strong commitment by local leaders and institutions to protect and preserve natural landscapes. As the conversation around environmental issues continues to evolve globally, it is crucial that local communities are engaged and empowered to make a difference. Kudos to EPAA and their partners for a fantastic event that celebrates progress and incites further action towards a sustainable future.

Tags: #EnvironmentNews #Sharjah #CommunitiesNews