University students are sharing knowledge about the UAE’s history and heritage with guests at this year’s Qasr Al Hosn Festival.
Under the festival’s ambassador programme, 300 students from universities in Abu Dhabi are raising awareness about the era when the fort was the first structure on the island.
"By involving the young, we are helping to transfer the knowledge of our rich heritage, and instilling a sense of pride and belonging among future generations," said Reem Al Mansouri, a public engagement programmer at the Tourism and Culture Authority.
Since the launch of the programme, the number of participants has risen to 300 students this year from 160 in 2014.
"The growing popularity of the Ambassador Programme shows the high level of enthusiasm we see from university students in learning more about the UAE’s cultural heritage and their commitment to preserve it," said Ms Al Mansouri.
The ambassadors are guiding visitors at the Cultural Foundation building, the festival’s themed zones and its public programme.
They are helping with activities such as weaving palm leaves, building dhows (traditional sailing vessels), falconry, tree climbing and making Gahwa (traditional Emirati coffee).
"I’m proud to return this year to share this knowledge with others and contribute to preserving our culture," said Amna Al Zaabi, a student at Sorbonne Abu Dhabi who took part in last year’s programme.
Experts are giving lectures to the student ambassadors on the history of the fort, Emirati heritage and the festival’s various aspects.
The participating universities include Zayed University, United Arab Emirates University, the Higher Colleges of Technology, Paris-Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, Al Hosn University, Emirates College for Advanced Education, the Petroleum Institute, Khalifa University, and Abu Dhabi University.

Source: The National