UD Students Celebrate Their Diverse Cultures During ìInternational Festival Dayî

Dr. Al Bastaki Inaugurates Happiness Stands President of the University of Dubai (UD) Dr. Eesa Al Bastaki inaugurated the first ìHappiness Standsî during the ìInternational Festival Day 2018,î which was organized by the Department of Student Services in cooperation with Student Union and clubs. During this annual event, more than 11 professional and cultural student clubs participated by showcasing their unique cultures, traditions, and proficiencies through well-designed booths as well as creative live presentations and performances. Cultural clubs included Emirati Club, Egyptian Club, Iraqi Club, Jordanian Club, Syrian Club, France Club; whereas professional clubs included Environmental Club, Games Club and many others. More than 500 guests including consuls, students, and faculty members attended the event. The ìHappiness Stands,î which were initiated by the Happiness & Positivity Council at UD, are geared toward measuring the happiness and satisfaction of the students as well as the teaching and administrative bodies with UDís services, employees, educational system, curricula, campus, and environment. During inauguration, Dr. Al Bastaki stressed that anyone could freely express his opinion and identify the strengths and weaknesses of the University by voting on those Happiness Stands. ìThis would help us figure out the gaps and address issues to make UD a happier place,î he said. He also welcomed the representatives of the consulates in Dubai who attended the events, pointing out that the International Day comes is in line with the vision of the wise leadership of the UAE to make it an international hub characterized by tolerance and mutual respect. Hikmat Beaini, Chief of Happiness and Positivity Council, touched base on the importance of establishing such free platforms on campus to increase levels of happiness and satisfaction and maintain high educational standards both locally and internationally. “UD has students from more than 42 nationalities. This event brings together all diverse cultures and fosters the creativity of our students,î stated Student Union President Ahmad Al-Kaitoub. ìThrough such events, the University sends a message of cooperation, love and peace from the UAE to the whole world,î he added. Amina El Marzak, Director of Student Services, said that the International Festival Day provides students with the opportunity to present their cultures, traditions, and customs and interact through various activities.