Abu Dhabi: The Abu Dhabi Department of Energy (DoE), in collaboration with the Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK), has launched the 'Future Guardians' initiative, aimed at instilling the principles of energy and water efficiency among school students across the emirate. This initiative falls under the Behavioral Change Programme, part of the Abu Dhabi Energy and Water Efficiency 2030 strategy, and aims to foster a more conscious and sustainable community.
According to Emirates News Agency, the programme aims to reach more than 10,000 students in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi through a series of interactive hands-on, project-based sessions and preparatory workshops leading up to a Hackathon set to take place May 28-29 at the World Utilities Congress. In this event, 100 students from 10 different schools will participate in co-creating behavioral change solutions to be implemented in their communities.
Eng. Ahmed Al Falasi, Executive Director of the Energy Efficiency Sector at the Department of Energy, emphasized that 'The Future Guardians' initiative represents a key milestone in nurturing a generation that is aware of the importance of conserving electricity and water. He noted that the initiative is not merely about theoretical awareness but about empowering students to become active change-makers within their families and communities. The initiative, which kicked off earlier in May, has already seen strong engagement with 3,071 students participating in 105 sessions, aiming to reinforce the role of education as a fundamental tool for lasting behavioral transformation.
Dr. Bashaer AlMatrooshi, Executive Director - Talent Enablement Sector at ADEK, highlighted that sustainability is a core value embedded across the entire education ecosystem. She mentioned that 'The Future Guardians' initiative is a powerful extension of their mission, transforming classrooms into incubators for environmental responsibility. Dr. AlMatrooshi invited parents to join in nurturing the next generation of changemakers, emphasizing that when students lead by example at home and in school, entire communities shift toward more sustainable behaviors.
Targeting students from Grades 5 to 12 (Years 6 to 13), 'The Future Guardians' initiative invites schools across Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra to take part in shaping a more sustainable future.