Promoting a Culture of Reading: The ‘Zad Rashid’ Initiative
In an ambitious effort to nurture reading habits among the youth of Dubai, the Community Development Authority (CDA) has collaborated with the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority to launch the ‘Zad Rashid’ initiative. This program aims to foster a culture of reading among children while reinforcing national and linguistic identity within the Emirati community.
Curated Home Libraries for Young Readers
Central to the ‘Zad Rashid’ initiative is the distribution of 1,000 curated home libraries, each containing 25 specially selected books. The unique aspect of this collection is its focus on local literature, with 80% of the books authored by Emirati writers and the remaining 20% by Arab authors residing in the UAE. This selection not only highlights the importance of supporting local talent but also reflects a commitment to promoting culturally relevant content that resonates with young readers.
Aligning with National Themes to Foster Unity
Launched under the theme ‘Hand in Hand,’ the initiative echoes the goals of the ‘Year of Community’ campaign. Both the CDA and Dubai Culture are aligned in their vision to instill cultural and educational values in the younger generations of the UAE. The emphasis on unity and community growth serves as a foundational element, aiming to create an informed and cohesive society through literature.
Reading as an Engaging Alternative
In a world increasingly dominated by digital media, ‘Zad Rashid’ promotes reading as a meaningful alternative to screen time. The initiative aims to stimulate critical thinking, enhance language development, and encourage young readers to engage with their local public libraries. By doing so, it nurtures imagination and fosters enriching dialogues around stories and ideas.
Celebrating Active Participants
As part of the program’s rollout, 25 selected Emirati families received a complete home library in recognition of their active participation in the Dubai Public Library Network. This gesture not only rewards engagement but also highlights the importance of community involvement in promoting literary culture.
Fostering Dialogue Through Community Engagement
The initiative includes a panel discussion titled The Importance of Reading in Building an Informed Society. This event will feature Emirati authors, parents, and children, providing a platform for dialogue and inspiration. Such discussions are vital for cultivating future literary talent and reinforcing the critical role of reading in personal and communal development.
Reducing Reliance on Digital Media
One of the core objectives of ‘Zad Rashid’ is to diminish children’s reliance on digital media by offering substantial, enriching alternatives. By prioritizing reading, the initiative encourages children to explore their thoughts and ideas through literature rather than through screens, enhancing their capacity for creativity and dialogue.
Leadership Perspectives on the Initiative
Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid, the Director General of the CDA, articulated the initiative as a long-term cultural investment, underlining its significance in shaping the future of children. Hala Badri, Director General of Dubai Culture, further emphasized reading as an essential tool for societal progress. She stated, “Reading is the key to learning, and one of the fundamental tools for societal development and human empowerment.” This underscores the initiative’s alignment with broader goals of empowering creative talents and showcasing the rich historical narrative articulated by Emirati authors.
With the ‘Zad Rashid’ initiative, Dubai is making strides not only in promoting reading but also in cementing a collective cultural identity. Through literature, the program seeks to inspire future generations, ensuring that the voices of Emirati authors resonate deeply within the fabric of society. In doing so, it nurtures a landscape where creativity, imagination, and critical thinking can thrive, preparing children for a fulfilling and intellectually stimulating future.
