ALHOSNUniversity, a leading Abu Dhabi-based university dedicated to high-quality value-based education, recently visited the 'Estirahat Al Shuwwab' home for the elderly in Dubai as part of its ongoing community awareness campaign. University students and staff members had previously visited institutions for special needs and autism to support underprivileged community members and to attain self-development and personal growth to complement their academic education.
In its latest trip, ALHOSNUniversity sent 16 female students who were given a tour of the facility by the head of the center, who also explained the nature of their work. Participants interacted with the elderly residents, gave them gifts and shared poetry and songs. The university intends to conduct more visits to various other institutions to introduce its students to various disadvantaged social groups in the UAE.
"Our elderly need caring attention, love, understanding and support. Our visit reflects Islam's teaching of kindness and love towards the elderly, who gave us a great deal of care and attention when we were young and yet often get neglected. It was very fulfilling for us to see them happy and enjoying the attention we gave them during our stay. This experience has inspired me to seek better ways to help the elderly and other needy members of our society," said Enas Khalil, Student at ALHOSNUniversity.
"After each of our community awareness visits you can immediately notice the change among our students. They show a better understanding of how their actions can positively affect others in their community and are more eager to join initiatives to help the less fortunate. This campaign has become very meaningful for ALHOSN and so we intend to extend its reach to more members of society," said Nicholas Hamilton-Archer from the Office of the Provost Office at ALHOSNUniversity.
Estirahat Al Shuwwab is located in Mamzar, Dubai. Aside from accommodating permanent residents, the facility also has an outpatient section where the elderly can come to participate in various activities.
ALHOSNUniversity offers 11 undergraduate and 7 graduate programs under the Faculty of Engineering and Applied Sciences, the Faculty of Business, and the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences that uphold its motto of 'Global knowledge with local vision.' Its programs are open to students of all nationalities. The University recently celebrated its 5th anniversary and its emergence as of one Abu Dhabi's top educational institutions.
