MBZ varsity strives to protect national identity

The Mohamed Bin Zayed University for Humanities (MBZUH) has launched the Authentic Identity and Sustainable Heritage initiative, aimed at promoting awareness of Emirati heritage and linking it to principles of cultural and social sustainability.

The project is part of the university’s strategy to support efforts to protect national identity across generations, in line with the UAE’s vision of preserving its authenticity and solidifying its civilizational heritage.

The initiative includes a series of events and interactive programmes designed to enable students to explore and deeply understand the essence of Emirati national identity.

Among the activities included are workshops on the Emirati coffee tradition (Sana’ al-Qahwa), where students learn the customs of preparing and serving coffee, a core aspect of Emirati culture that reflects values of hospitality and connection.

Additionally, the university organises a training programme on the art of falconry, a symbol of strength and courage, to revive this traditional sport and pass its knowledge and skills to new generations.

Dr. Khalifa Mubarak Al Dhaheri, Chancellor of MBZUH, said that the Authentic Identity and Sustainable Heritage initiative represents the university’s steadfast commitment to preserving the components of national identity, aligning with the UAE wise leadership’s vision of achieving a balance between the nation’s civilisational progress and pride in its authentic roots.

Earlier, the Mohamed Bin Zayed University for Humanities organised the “Scientific Forum for Programme Development”, in collaboration with Nahdlatul Ulama University in Indonesia.

The initiative represents a strategic step towards the establishment of the Mohamed Bin Zayed College of Future Studies (MBZ CFS) in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. The college was conceptualised as a result of a strategic partnership between the governments of the UAE and Indonesia. Yogyakarta, renowned for its prestigious academic standing, was chosen as the ideal location for the college, reflecting the profound shared vision of the two nations.

The two-day forum yielded fruitful results, including enhanced coordination between the joint scientific committees for knowledge exchange and experience sharing. It also facilitated discussions on future plans related to the operational framework of the college, aligning both academic and administrative bodies.

The Mohamed Bin Zayed College of Future Studies is envisioned to become a leading academic institution, blending authentic Islamic values with advanced future studies.

WAM