Today's Edition
ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)
The Abu Dhabi Maritime Sports Academy (ADMSA) has embraced the motto of 'Catch them young' as it unveiled "Al Nokhatha Al Sagheer" or the Young Captain programme to connect children with the sea.
In partnership with the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority (ECA), the initiative launched is designed to develop their physical, social, and cognitive skills in a safe and interactive environment.
Running from October 21 to December 30, it is open to children aged 6 to 8 years, and offers a series of marine and educational activities which introduce them to the UAE’s rich maritime heritage and the importance of preserving it.
The programme includes hands-on activities such as sailing, rowing, balance board exercises, and traditional dhow sailing experiences, as well as a Family Marine Day, which will be held in Al Mirfa City in Al Dhafra, featuring family-friendly boat races and interactive entertainment.
Khalifa Al Suwaidi, Director of ADMSA, said: “The “Al Nokhatha Al Sagheer” programme embodies the Academy’s vision of investing in early childhood as a fundamental stage in shaping the awareness of new generations and instilling in them the values of the sea from a young age. Through this initiative, we aim to build a confident generation connected to its heritage and capable of representing the nation in various maritime sports in the future."
The partnership with ECA, he said, "reflects genuine integration between sports and community development. Together, we strive to offer a comprehensive educational and heritage-based experience that aligns with the wise leadership’s vision of nurturing a creative and empowered generation.”
Dr. Hessa Al Kaabi, Executive Director of Special Projects and Partnerships at ECA, also chipped in, saying the launch shows their "commitment to expanding experiential learning and connecting children with their national heritage in a safe and stimulating environment.
"Interactive experiences like these nurture children’s physical, social, and cognitive skills, while fostering curiosity and a strong sense of belonging to their Emirati roots. At ECA, we believe that every meaningful learning experience is a step toward building a creative generation equipped for the future.”
The programme's launch is part of Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Week 2025, which is being organised by the ECA and will be held from November 17 to 23 under the theme “Together We Can Make Abu Dhabi a Family-Friendly Emirate".
The week is supported by ADNOC as the Energy Partner, the National Academy for Childhood Development (NACD) as the Visionary Partner, and PureHealth as the Health Partner.
