DUBAI (ALETIHAD)
As part of efforts to advance the objectives of the "Dubai Social Agenda 33" and establish an integrated and sustainable social ecosystem, the Community Development Authority (CDA) in Dubai, in collaboration with The Dubai Community Contributions Establishment (Jood) and Awqaf and Minors Affairs Foundation (Awqaf Dubai), launched the "Back to School" initiative for the 2026–2027 academic year.
The initiative aims to provide essential school supplies and tablets to more than 1,000 students from eligible families in Dubai, helping them begin the new academic year with confidence and stability.
The launch was attended by Her Excellency Aisha Abdulla Miran, Director General of the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), alongside Maitha Al Shamsi, CEO of the Community Empowerment Sector at the Community Development Authority, and Marwan Rashid bin Hashem, CEO of The Dubai Community Contributions Establishment (Jood), reflecting the importance of uniting efforts to support students and strengthen social cohesion.
The initiative represents an integrated model of strategic partnership, with the support of the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai (GDRFA), Dubai Customs, UAE Food Bank, Emirates Health Services, Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), Dubai Investments, Apparel Group, Imdaad, Tilal Fashion, and Jordan Oral Care.
This collaboration contributes to directing resources towards national priorities and expanding the reach and sustainability of social impact.
Leadership Vision and Sustainable Impact
Maitha Al Shamsi, CEO of the Community Empowerment Sector at the Community Development Authority, affirmed that the initiative goes beyond providing temporary support to form part of an integrated empowerment ecosystem.
Al Shamsi said: "Through this integrated approach, we strengthen family stability and enhance the quality of life of community members, transforming social responsibility into tangible impact by directing resources towards actual priorities and supporting the aspirations of our students."
For his part, Marwan Rashid bin Hashem, CEO of The Dubai Community Contributions Establishment (Jood), noted that providing essential school supplies helps create a supportive educational environment that gives students the confidence to continue their academic journeys successfully.
Ahmed Abu Shehab, Director of the Financial Affairs Department at Awqaf and Minors Affairs Foundation (Awqaf Dubai), noted that the Foundation's participation reflects the developmental role of sustainable endowment in addressing tangible community needs and bringing together expertise and resources to expand the positive impact among targeted groups.
The "Back to School" initiative supports the objectives of the "Dubai Social Agenda 33", further reinforcing Dubai's leadership in advancing community partnerships and building a more cohesive and prosperous society.