As the holy month of Ramadan unfolds, Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi (SUAD) continues its commitment to social responsibility with a series of impactful initiatives. In alignment with the UAE’s “Year of Community,” these programmes emphasize inclusion, compassion, and sustainability, creating meaningful change both in the local community and beyond. SUAD’s Ramadan initiatives reflect the university’s values and embody the spirit of giving that defines this sacred time of year.
Supporting the Community with Emirates Red Crescent
In collaboration with Emirates Red Crescent, SUAD is actively participating in the Grace Conservation Programme, an initiative launched in 2004 to redistribute surplus resources to those in need while promoting social solidarity and sustainability. Students, faculty, staff, and families are coming together to ensure the regular distribution of meals and food boxes to labor communities on multiple days throughout Ramadan. Their efforts, combining sustainability with kindness, support those fasting and reinforce the values of unity, generosity, and shared moments of bonding during this sacred month.
Student-Led Initiatives: Inclusion, Giving, and Cultural Exchange
SUAD students are actively leading initiatives and projects that promote inclusion and community support. This month, their efforts included Zero Discrimination Day, organized by SUAD’s Tolerance Club and Philosophy Club, highlighting the importance of tolerance and mutual respect. Additionally, the Student Iftar Gathering brought students together, allowing international students to immerse themselves in the experience in UAE traditions and deepen their cross-cultural connections and and gain a deeper understanding of the local culture. The student community also launched an initiative to provide food boxes to campus workers, strengthening the sense of community within the campus.
Inclusion through Sports: Ramadan Climb & Tournaments
As part of its ongoing commitment to inclusion, SUAD hosted the third annual Ramadan Climb for Inclusion on March 12, in partnership with Rab3i, a platform advocating for inclusion and accessibility for People of Determination. Now in its third year, the event brought together students, families, and the local climbing community to celebrate talents celebrating a spirit of community, resilience, and support. Additional editions of the event are planned for April and May. SUAD also held the Judo Inclusion Tournament on March 6, encouraging participation from individuals of all abilities.
Technology for a Greater Cause: Donate Your Own Device (DYOD) Campaign
SUAD launched the Donate Your Own Device (DYOD) campaign, part of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, to support under-resourced schools worldwide. The IT and Corporate Services Division organized and donated over 275 pieces of IT equipment, including computers, laptops, and printers. This initiative empowers students globally by providing essential learning tools and helping them develop crucial digital skills, supporting their ability to create, innovate, and succeed in our digital world.
Animal Welfare: Compassion Beyond the Classroom
SUAD’s commitment to community impact extends to animal welfare through its Animal Welfare Club, led by President Yasmin Almaskari, a student in the Geography and Planning Department.
On March 4, 2025, she hosted a well-received presentation at the Sustainability Task Force at Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi. During her presentation, she discussed the Animal Welfare Club’s upcoming initiatives, including the Trap-Neuter-Return Program (TNR), feeding stations, and an adoption campaign. The club also engages in various activities such as volunteer programmes with Emirates Park Zoo and K9 Friends, medical care for stray campus cats, and the Cat Yoga Event to promote animal welfare and community involvement.
SUAD’s Commitment to Accessible Education
To further support students, SUAD is offering a 10% Early Bird Discount for students enrolling before 30 April. This initiative aims to reduce the financial barriers to higher education, making it more accessible for students to pursue their academic dreams and shape a brighter future for themselves and their communities. The discount applies to all new applicants enrolling in undergraduate and postgraduate programmes for the upcoming academic year, as well as Level 3 Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi students enrolling in a master’s programme.
Through these impactful initiatives, Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi reaffirms its commitment to community development, sustainability, and social justice. By empowering students to engage in meaningful projects, SUAD is shaping the leaders of tomorrow while making a lasting impact on the community today. To learn more about the events and to register, please visit the website: http://www.sorbonne.ae
