MURSHED YOUTH RANGERS GATHER AT NATURE RETREAT TO CELEBRATE THE ACHIEVEMENT OF REACHING OVER 500 VOLUNTEERING HOURS

MURSHED YOUTH RANGERS GATHER AT NATURE RETREAT TO CELEBRATE THE ACHIEVEMENT OF REACHING OVER 500 VOLUNTEERING HOURS

AbuDhabi(News Desk)::Enthusiastic Youth Rangers attended a Nature Retreat earlier  this week, where their participation  in the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi’s (EAD) Murshed Youth Rangers Programme was celebrated.  Having completed a total of 589 volunteering hours, Youth Rangers from the first and second cohort gathered at Jubail Mangrove Park and engaged in several social activities, including a treasure hunt that saw the winners gifted with sustainable merchandise from EAD.

Commenting on the importance of this programme,  Rasha Ali Al Madfai, Acting Director of the Environmental Awareness Department, Environmental Information, Science, and Outreach Management at Environment Agency Abu Dhabi , said: “We recognise that the future of our environment lies in the hands of young people and that it is imperative to safeguard our invaluable natural treasures. With this programme, we aim to empower the next generation of environmental leaders, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to drive meaningful change and spearhead active involvement in environmental conservation.” 

The extensive programme trains participants to become environmental stewards, inspectors, researchers, and reporters, as well as monitors and tour guides. Activities include bird watching, patrolling boardwalks, conducting research, and participating in masterclasses led by field experts. After completing the training period, programme’s participants can continue their journey by volunteering at Jubail Mangrove Park and Al Wathba Wetland Reserve. 

 “I believe that the Murshed Youth Rangers Programme has benefited me in many ways including my teamwork, time management and research skills. I enjoyed discovering the UAE’s natural wonders like the flamingos and the mangroves. The programme has motivated me to ensure that conservation efforts are carried forward well into the future,” said Alghalia Al Radhi, a participant in the programme.

 Hamdan Al Marzooqi, another youth ranger, added: “Joining Murshed has helped me identify the different species we have in the UAE and their importance. I was especially interested in conducting research, which helped us identify the different types of animals and plants, and their functions. This has really encouraged me to continue the work we have done in the programme by volunteering at the Mangrove Park.” 

The programme enhances the knowledge of youth in the field of biodiversity, helping to further spark their interest in preserving the environment and them to pursue a career in environmental studies. Through hands-on experience, youth rangers gain insight on the measurable impact of their actions, eliciting a sense of responsibility to make a difference and inspire others around them.   The Murshed programme falls under EAD’s naha platform, which aims to turn climate intentions into meaningful actions. The platform provides opportunities for youth and community members to engage in activities that motivate action towards sustainable outcomes.