The National Academy for Childhood Development (NACD) has launched its Generation 71 winter edition in collaboration with the UAE Ministry of Family. The programme is designed to inculcate authentic Emirati values and cultivate diverse life skills.

Building on the outstanding success of its summer edition, which attracted more than 322 children from across the UAE, the winter programme promises an enriching and engaging experience during the school break and will be held in Abu Dhabi until 18 December, and in the Al Dhafra Region, running from December 22nd to 25th. 

Hessa Abdulrahman Tahlak, Assistant Undersecretary for the Development Sector at the Ministry of Family, said: “Our collaboration with the National Academy for Childhood Development is vital for delivering qualitative programmes as part of our comprehensive efforts to cultivate capable generations, deeply rooted in Emirati values and national identity, and empowered to effectively lead the future. Investing in our youth means planting the seeds for the future and embodies the leadership's vision to position the family as a cornerstone of national development. Generation 71 supports families and extends its vital guiding role in instilling profound values and culture.”

Her Excellency Dr Meera AlKaabi, Acting President of the National Academy for Childhood Development, said: “Generation 71 reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting Emirati families and strengthening their educational role, through meaningful content that reinforces national values and helps shape a conscious, responsible Emirati child. This aligns with the UAE’s vision, which places investment in children and families as a priority to ensure sustainable development for the future.”

The winter programme welcomes children across two tracks: “Nash’ Al Dar” for those aged 6 to 10 years, and “Al Shabab Al Bani” for youths from 11 to 14 years. This educational journey offers a diverse range of interactive workshops designed to reinforce national identity, foster positive behaviour and hone critical life skills. The free of charge, Arabic-language programme will hold separate sessions for boys and girls, and on completion, all participants will be awarded a certificate.

The girls’ programme focuses on reinforcing identity and enhancing skills through activities that foster local customs and heritage. Practical workshops will teach them to prepare simple, traditional Emirati dishes and provide essential knowledge in basic safety and emergency response. The programme also includes a field visit to explore majlis etiquette, traditional dress, and authentic Emirati hospitality.

Building responsibility, independence and national identity are the main outcomes of the boys' programme. The workshops introduce participants to authentic Emirati hospitality and etiquette, diverse Emirati cultural arts such as Al-Youla and Al-Razfa, falconry skills, traditional Arabic coffee preparation, and basic home maintenance techniques.

Inspired by the UAE’s founding year, 1971, the name Generation 71 reaffirms the importance of honouring the legacy of the nation’s Founding Fathers and preparing future generations to contribute to the nation’s future.

To find out more about the Generation 71 programme and register your children, please visit the link available on NACD’s social media platforms.