The UAE’s Emphasis on Sustainability Sparks a Surge of Interest in Climate Change Among Students

The UAE government’s unwavering commitment to addressing climate-related concerns is yielding positive results, evident in the remarkable increase in the enrollment of students pursuing sustainability studies at one of the nation’s premier universities.

Zayed University has witnessed a nearly fourfold rise in the number of students participating in its sustainability program, with figures climbing from 52 to 207 in the past year.

This program’s popularity has experienced a significant upswing as the global spotlight turns toward the UAE in anticipation of Cop28, the upcoming UN climate change conference scheduled to be held in Dubai next month.

Dr. Suzanna Elmassah, the program’s director, remarked, “The UAE government’s dedication to sustainability has motivated students to proactively seek education that equips them to confront future challenges.”

She added, “Our goal is to educate and empower students to adopt sustainable practices.”

Students in this program delve into the science underlying the environmental impact of human activities and acquire the skills to develop sustainable solutions through the application of new technologies, strategic business approaches, and social policies.

Preparations for Cop28
In the lead-up to the impending climate change conference in Dubai, the university has initiated a series of activities under the banner of #roadtoCop28.

While the conference undoubtedly exerts significant influence, other global crises, such as floods and earthquakes, have also played a pivotal role in boosting program enrollment.

Dr. Elmassah noted, “The job market is increasingly seeking candidates with a strong sustainability background, and our students recognize this demand.”

“The program’s academic curriculum is thoughtfully crafted by an interdisciplinary faculty to adapt to local, regional, and global contexts,” she emphasized.

“It offers students the opportunity to acquire the knowledge and skills required to effect positive change and contribute to a more robust and sustainable world.”

These activities include workshops addressing topics like greenhouse gas emissions from the packaging industry and innovative solutions for a circular economy.

Furthermore, the university has established a sustainability club dedicated to addressing environmental issues through a variety of initiatives.

Dr. Elmassah mentioned, “With branches at both Abu Dhabi and Dubai campuses, the club boasts an impressive membership of 200 students.”

The program is also collaborating with the British University in Egypt and the United Nations Development Programme to host a Cop28 simulation model.

Scheduled to occur in Cairo from November 7–11, this mock conference provides students with a unique opportunity to gain firsthand experience in the realm of international environmental diplomacy.

Becoming Eco-conscious
Dana Al Seriari, an Emirati student at the age of 18, shared her experiences in the program.

“The spotlight in our country now shines brightly on sustainability, linking it to every aspect of life,” she noted.

“Since joining the program two months ago, we have delved deeply into topics ranging from climate change to biodiversity, and I eagerly anticipate further learning as the program unfolds.”

Ms. Al Seriari highlighted how her academic journey has already inspired meaningful changes in her household.

“The program has transformed the way I perceive and utilize everyday resources, such as electricity,” she explained.

“As a result, unnecessary use of lights is now a thing of the past in our home, a change that my family has happily embraced.”

Salama Al Mazrouei, a 19-year-old student in her second year of the program, initially enrolled at the urging of her mother.

She said, “I’ve always associated sustainability with recycling, thanks to early exposure through projects my mother involved us in.”

However, her time in the program has broadened her understanding, revealing that sustainability encompasses a much wider spectrum of concerns.