H.E. Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Honors AAU's Representatives at the Closing Ceremony of the “National Identity Pioneers” Program
- Posted on:Jul 23, 2026
His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence and Chairman of Sandooq Al Watan, honored Al Ain University representatives who participated in the “National Identity Pioneers” summer program. The honorees were Dr. Rania Abdullah, Director of the Communication and Media Program; Mr. Yazan Al Ahmad, Director of the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center; and Ms. Moza Al Mansoori, Student Activities Supervisor at the Deanship of Student Affairs.
The recognition acknowledged their efforts in training students, coordinating the program, and promoting national identity, belonging, and social responsibility.
The recognition took place during the program’s closing ceremony, organized by Sandooq Al Watan for higher education institutions and hosted by Abu Dhabi University. The program brought together students from several UAE universities, while the ceremony was attended by presidents and directors of participating universities, trainers, supervisors, and supporting partners.
This recognition reflects appreciation for Al Ain University’s active role in supporting national initiatives aimed at preparing a generation that is aware of its identity, proud of its language, religion, and heritage, committed to the values of belonging and social responsibility, and capable of contributing effectively to the UAE’s continued development and progress.
Al Ain University, represented by the Deanship of Student Affairs at its Abu Dhabi Campus, participated in implementing the program and hosted its activities from 6 to 22 July 2026, with the participation of a number of AAU students.
Held over three weeks, the program featured a series of specialized lectures, interactive workshops, practical activities, and field visits structured around three key pillars of Emirati national identity. The first week focused on strengthening belonging to the nation and loyalty to its leadership, while the second highlighted pride in the Arabic language and its role in reinforcing national identity. The third week was dedicated to promoting pride in the Islamic faith and its authentic values.
The program also included field visits to the Zayed National Museum and Qasr Al Hosn, offering students an opportunity to learn more about the history, heritage, and development of the UAE. These visits strengthened their connection to the nation’s cultural legacy and reinforced the values of belonging and pride in Emirati identity.
Dr. Rania Abdullah and Mr. Yazan Al Ahmad delivered a series of specialized lectures and training sessions that enriched the students’ experience and supported the program’s objectives. Ms. Moza Al Mansoori supervised the participation of AAU students and coordinated the program’s activities.
The lectures, workshops, and activities aimed to deepen students’ understanding of the UAE’s history, heritage, and national values, while developing their leadership, communication, teamwork, and community engagement skills. They also sought to transform the values of national identity from theoretical concepts into everyday practices and behaviors that reflect pride in the nation, loyalty to its leadership, and commitment to the Arabic language and Islamic values.
