This summer, the Emirates College for Advanced Education (ECAE) in Abu Dhabi hosted a unique camp experience for young learners, combining traditional Emirati heritage with modern technology. Designed to cultivate both cultural awareness and future-ready skills, the initiative brought together students, experts, and community elders in a collaborative learning environment aligned with the UAE’s 2025 Year of Community.
A camp rooted in culture and innovation
Held at the ECAE FabLab, the 2025 summer camp welcomed students aged 12 to 17 under the theme “Bridging Generations: Honouring the Past, Innovating the Future.” The programme was organised by ECAE’s Continuing Education Centre as part of its wider educational mission and community engagement efforts. The theme reflected the camp’s central goal: to help young participants explore the UAE’s cultural traditions while engaging with the tools and technologies shaping tomorrow.The camp was delivered in two separate cohorts to allow for more flexible participation:
- Cohort 1: 14–25 July
- Cohort 2: 28 July–8 August
Over the two-week sessions, students participated in a mix of traditional craft activities and digital fabrication workshops, all designed to offer practical and creative learning experiences.
Blending hands on learning with cultural storytelling
Participants were introduced to a wide range of digital tools, including:
- Laser cutters
- Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) applications
Using these technologies, students learned how to reinterpret traditional Emirati patterns into modern digital designs, bridging past aesthetics with future innovations.Working in small, collaborative teams, the students engaged in group projects that emphasized problem-solving, teamwork, and creative thinking. Each day featured a structured schedule of expert-led sessions, covering both:
Traditional Emirati crafts , guided by specialists and cultural educators- Digital fabrication skills, taught through practical tutorials
In addition to technical and craft-based learning, the programme placed a strong emphasis on intergenerational dialogue. Students took part in cultural storytelling sessions where community elders shared personal stories and heritage insights. These interactions aimed to deepen the students’ connection to their own cultural roots and foster a sense of identity and belonging.
Culmination in a community showcase
A highlight of the summer camp was the final showcase event, where participants presented their completed projects to:
- Fellow students
- Parents and family members
- Special guests from the community
This event not only celebrated the students’ achievements but also reinforced the camp’s themes of community involvement, cultural pride, and creative innovation.The Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority served as the official partner for the cultural component of the camp, providing support and expertise for the traditional workshops.
Longstanding commitment to youth and lifelong learning
This summer programme continues the mission of ECAE’s Continuing Education Centre, which has been active since 2014. Over the past decade, the Centre has:
- Delivered approximately 344 programmes
- Reached more than 7,000 children
- Supported the broader goal of promoting lifelong learning in the UAE
Speaking on the importance of the initiative, Dr. May Laith Al Taee, Vice Chancellor of ECAE, noted:“Bridging generations through education is essential for building a cohesive and forward-thinking society. By integrating heritage with innovation, this summer camp provides students with the skills and experiences they need to contribute meaningfully to their communities and honour the UAE’s rich cultural legacy.”
