Abu Dhabi University hosts International Day

ABU DHABI: As part of its efforts to spread a culture of tolerance and inclusivity in line with the Year of Tolerance, Abu Dhabi University (ADU) hosted an International Day for the ADU community to celebrate diversity and promote exchange and understanding between different nationalities.

With more than 14 different countries joining the celebrations, the event featured a mix of eclectic culinary traditions, cultural performances infused with folk music and traditional dress, as well as an array of internationally themed booths.

A renowned Emirati-Japanese Kharsha Drums group performed at the event and captivated audiences with a unique fusion performance that combined elements from the Emirati and Japanese cultures in a distinctive musical expression.

Professor Waqar Ahmad, ADU's Chancellor, commented, “We strive to follow into the footsteps of our wise leadership who have firmly established the UAE as a promoter of peace and symbol of tolerance, the enduring value of this year’s theme.

At ADU, we are proud to be home to over 82 different nationalities who live harmoniously in our rich and culturally diverse environment. This initiative aims to promote a dialogue between cultures and engage the ADU community in learning more about other traditions and values to expand their knowledge of the world in line with the Year of Tolerance.”

The event featured a mix of eclectic culinary traditions, cultural performances infused with folk music and traditional dress, as well as an array of internationally themed booths.

The event saw the participation of faculty and staff in addition to Alliance Française (AF), an international organization that promotes French language and culture around the world.

The festivities included themed booths showcasing a striking mix of cultures from India, Palestine, Syria, Jordan, Lebanon, Ireland, UAE, Japan, Sudan, Philippines, Korea, Egypt, China, and France.

During the festival, four awards were presented to faculty members and their affiliated booths in different categories including ‘best dressed’, ‘best cultural dish’, ‘best decorated booth’ and ‘best dance performance’. This initiative is one of many planned this year to celebrate the Year of Tolerance.

The university currently has more than 7,600 students across its bachelor’s, diploma, master’s and PhD programs at its campuses in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Al Dhafra and Al Ain.

Students at ADU represent over 82 different nationalities enrolled in 44 academic programs, all of which enjoy global academic accreditation. The growing multi-cultural student base is divided into 29 undergraduate and 15 postgraduate programs, with over 15,000 graduates working in the UAE and abroad.