Post by : Badri Ariffin

In an impressive achievement, Danah Adel Al Zarouni, a sixth-grade student at Al Ittihad National Private School in Abu Dhabi, has been recognized as the UAE Reading Champion for the 10th Arab Reading Challenge.

The title was awarded during a ceremony held at the Dubai Exhibition Centre, Expo City, organized by the Ministry of Education in collaboration with the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI). Esteemed attendees included Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority.

Praise from Sheikh Mohammed for Student Engagement

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE, commended the remarkable engagement of over 830,000 students from across the nation in this year’s competition.

He expressed pride in Danah Adel Al Zarouni for clinching first place nationally, appreciating the enthusiasm displayed by students for knowledge and literature. Sheikh Mohammed emphasized the crucial role of reading in fostering development and innovation.

As part of her triumph, Danah will represent the UAE in the international finals, joining participants from 60 countries after a monumental competition that attracted over 40 million students this academic year.

Sheikha Latifa Emphasizes the Value of Reading

During the event, Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed presented awards not only to Danah but also to the runner-up and winners in the People of Determination category.

She highlighted the UAE’s commitment to fostering a reading culture under its leadership, identifying it as a fundamental aspect of human development. The Arab Reading Challenge, she noted, is the largest knowledge competition in the Arab world, enhancing students’ skills and cultural connections.

She also acknowledged the invaluable contributions of schools, teachers, and families in motivating students to engage with reading, congratulating participants for their dedication.

Over 830,000 Students Participated

Danah’s national title victory came after competing against a staggering 830,000 students from 1,250 schools, supported by 2,120 educators throughout the UAE.

The awards ceremony saw the presence of high-ranking officials such as Sarah Al Amiri, Minister of Education; Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, Minister of Culture; and other notable attendees.

Honoring of People of Determination Achievers

In the People of Determination category, Yousef Mohammed Saeed Hamed, a Grade 8 student, achieved first place, while Nada Saud Abdulaziz and Omar Ali Rashid Al Ketbi secured second and third, respectively, among 395 participants.

The event also recognized Naima Al Amiri as the Outstanding Supervisor, and Hamad bin Abdullah Al Sharqi School was awarded as the Best School.

Ten Students Make it to National Finals

Ten promising students, including champion Danah, reached the national finals, showcasing remarkable talent and perseverance in their reading journey.

Arab Reading Challenge Sees Record Participation

This year’s Arab Reading Challenge reported unprecedented engagement, with over 40.2 million participants from 60 countries, including 74,062 individuals from the People of Determination category.

Participants represented 138,426 schools and were guided by 161,507 supervisors, marking a 24% increase from the last edition.

Education Minister Reflects on Lasting Influence

Sarah Al Amiri, Minister of Education, remarked that the Arab Reading Challenge has evolved into a quintessential educational initiative since its inception in 2015, embedding reading as an integral part of the culture.

She spoke of how the record involvement from UAE students underscores the nation’s dedication to fostering comprehensive educational practices and promoting the Arabic language, congratulating all involved.

Danah to Compete in Dubai Finals

With her national title secured, Danah Adel Al Zarouni is set to represent the UAE at the final chapter of the 2026 Arab Reading Challenge in Dubai.

Competitors in this stage must read and summarize 50 books, navigating through various qualifying rounds before the selected national champions from different countries converge for the grand finale.

#Global News #Dubai News #UAE News #World Update