Daijiworld Media Network – Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, Aug 19: The Emirates College for Advanced Education (ECAE) in Abu Dhabi hosted a unique summer camp this year, blending Emirati heritage with modern technology to nurture cultural pride and future-ready skills among young learners.

Organised by ECAE’s Continuing Education Centre at its FabLab, the camp ran in two cohorts between July 14 and August 8 under the theme “Bridging Generations: Honouring the Past, Innovating the Future.” Students aged 12 to 17 engaged in hands-on workshops that combined traditional crafts with cutting-edge tools such as laser cutters, CAD software, and artificial intelligence applications.

Working in collaborative teams, participants reinterpreted Emirati patterns into digital designs while learning problem-solving, teamwork, and creative thinking. Alongside technical training, the programme featured cultural storytelling sessions led by community elders, deepening students’ connection to heritage and identity.

The camp culminated in a community showcase where students presented their projects to families, peers, and special guests, celebrating innovation rooted in tradition. The Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority partnered with ECAE to support cultural workshops during the programme.

Highlighting the initiative, Dr May Laith Al Taee, Vice Chancellor of ECAE, said, “Bridging generations through education is essential for building a cohesive and forward-thinking society. By integrating heritage with innovation, this camp provides students with the skills and experiences they need to honour the UAE’s cultural legacy.”

Since 2014, ECAE’s Continuing Education Centre has delivered 344 programmes, reaching over 7,000 children and reinforcing its mission of lifelong learning in the UAE.