By ALEC Engineering & Contracting (ALEC) has partnered once again with Dubai Cares to improve educational infrastructure in schools across the UAE and Nepal. This renewed collaboration underscores a shared commitment to fostering quality education and creating nurturing learning environments for students.
Strengthening Educational Foundations
ALEC and Dubai Cares have signed a new three-year agreement for Dubai Cares’ ‘Volunteer Emirates’ initiative. This partnership builds on last year’s successful refurbishment of the National Charity School for Girls and Boys in Ajman, where ALEC and volunteers revitalized classroom and playground facilities.
“This extended partnership allows us to make a more significant impact on the education sector,” said Abdulla Ahmed Alshehhi, Chief Operating Officer at Dubai Cares. “By committing an additional US $163,000, ALEC is enabling us to enhance three more non-profit schools in the UAE, bringing our total contribution to $218,000 and supporting four schools in the region.”
Expanding Impact in Dubai
One of the key projects under this agreement is the refurbishment of the National Charity School Primary in Dubai. On November 9, 2024, 130 volunteers collaborated to assemble classroom desks, relocate new school furniture, and equip the teachers’ lounge with desks, chairs, and cabinets. Additionally, a new sensory room was set up for students of determination, featuring sensory and educational tools, and vibrant educational murals were painted across the school walls.
“These enhancements create a supportive and inclusive learning environment where students feel encouraged and empowered to reach their full potential,” a statement from ALEC read. The improvements not only elevate the school’s overall learning environment but also establish a nurturing space that fosters student growth and development.
Commitment to Sustainable Development Goals
Dubai Cares plays a pivotal role in advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4, which aims to ensure inclusive and quality education for all and promote lifelong learning by 2030. ALEC, as a participant in the United Nations Global Compact initiative, aligns with these goals by promoting responsible corporate citizenship and addressing global challenges through social and environmental principles.
“Our collaboration this year at the National Charity School Primary in Dubai is a testament to what we can accomplish together,” Alshehhi added. “ALEC’s support has led to meaningful enhancements, from providing high-quality desks and educational tools to adding vibrant murals that bring life to the school’s spaces and setting up a sensory room for the students of determination.”
Broader Impact on UAE and Nepal
The partnership between ALEC and Dubai Cares extends beyond the UAE, reaching schools in Nepal as well. By enhancing learning facilities in both regions, the collaboration aims to bridge educational gaps and provide students with the resources they need to thrive academically and personally.
- Classroom Enhancements: Upgrading furniture and educational tools to create conducive learning environments.
- Sensory Rooms: Establishing specialized spaces for students with unique learning needs.
- Educational Murals: Decorating school walls with educational and motivational artwork to inspire students.
- Teacher Support: Equipping teachers’ lounges to ensure educators have the necessary resources to support their students effectively.
Volunteer Emirates Initiative
The ‘Volunteer Emirates’ initiative is central to this partnership, mobilizing community volunteers to contribute their time and skills to educational projects. This grassroots approach not only enhances school facilities but also fosters a sense of community and collective responsibility towards education.
Volunteer Contributions:
- Furniture Assembly: Volunteers help in setting up new desks, chairs, and cabinets in classrooms and lounges.
- Sensory Room Setup: Assisting in the installation of sensory and educational tools tailored for students of determination.
- Murals and Decorations: Painting educational murals that add aesthetic value and educational content to school environments.
Financial Commitment and Sustainability
ALEC’s additional investment of US $163,000 underscores its dedication to sustainable education initiatives. By preserving funds and strategically investing in educational infrastructure, ALEC ensures that these projects have a lasting impact on the communities they serve.
Financial Allocation:
| Initiative | Funding (USD) | Impact Area |
|---|---|---|
| Classroom Refurbishment | $50,000 | UAE Schools |
| Sensory Room Development | $40,000 | Dubai Charity School |
| Educational Murals | $30,000 | Multiple Schools |
| Teacher Lounge Upgrades | $43,000 | UAE and Nepal Schools |
Note: Allocation details based on ALEC and Dubai Cares partnership agreement.
Future Plans and Expansion
Looking ahead, ALEC and Dubai Cares plan to continue their collaboration, targeting additional schools and expanding the scope of their initiatives. The focus will remain on creating inclusive, resource-rich educational environments that support both students and educators.
“We aim to replicate the success of our current projects across more schools in the UAE and Nepal,” Alshehhi mentioned. “Our goal is to ensure that every child has access to quality education in a supportive environment.”
Testimonials and Community Feedback
The impact of ALEC and Dubai Cares’ partnership is evident through the positive feedback from students, teachers, and community members. Teachers have reported improved teaching conditions, while students enjoy a more engaging and supportive learning atmosphere.
“Having a new sensory room has made a significant difference for our students with special needs,” said a teacher at the National Charity School Primary. “They are more engaged and comfortable in their learning environment.”
ALEC’s Role in Corporate Social Responsibility
ALEC’s participation in this partnership highlights its broader commitment to corporate social responsibility. By investing in education, ALEC not only supports individual growth but also contributes to the societal development of the regions it serves.
“As a participant in the United Nations Global Compact, ALEC’s values resonate deeply with those of Dubai Cares,” Alshehhi stated. “Our partnership is especially impactful because it aligns with our shared goals of fostering sustainable and inclusive education.”
The renewed partnership between ALEC and Dubai Cares marks a significant milestone in improving educational facilities in the UAE and Nepal. Through strategic investments and community-driven initiatives, this collaboration is set to create lasting positive change, empowering students to achieve their full potential and fostering a brighter future for the regions involved.