Minister of Climate Change and Environment partners with Beacon of Hope to teach children how to create light from solar energy His Excellency Dr. Thani Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, United Arab Emirates (UAE) Minister of Climate Change and Environment, teamed up with Beacon of Hope to host a special program with children from The Centre Fiers & Forts, an orphanage for underprivileged youth, to teach them how to build simple, solar light circuits. The event was held in Marrakesh, Morocco during the 22nd session of the Conference of Parties (COP) of the United Nations Framework on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

“The UAE is deeply invested in youth education and capacity building on sustainable development, especially in countries that are most in need of innovative energy sources,” His Excellency Dr. Thani Al Zeyoudi said. “We are extremely proud to partner with Beacon of Hope and The Centre Fiers & Fort to bring new technology to Marrakesh children and promote learning in science and technology.”

 Beacon of Hope is an organization that aims to make a positive impact of life, light and literacy among youth in developing countries. During the event, His Excellency Al Zeyoudi and the Beacon of Hope team worked with students to explain the science behind renewable energy and assemble the solar kits.

 Beacon of Hope also distributed books in English and Arabic donated by “Wanna Read,” a charity founded by Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, and Dubai Cares’ “Reading Nation.” The books included messages of encouragement and hope for a brighter future written by UAE children.

 "I am pleased that we have had the opportunity to showcase our UAE-led initiative, Beacon of Hope at COP22, which is instrumental in pushing forward the agenda of climate change mitigation. I am very happy to serve as patron of this important cause, and I would like to sincerely thank His Excellency Dr. Al Zeyoudi for his support, encouragement and collaboration,” Sheikha Shamma said.

“Collaboration is critical to making positive global impact as we move toward a sustainable future. Also, I would like to acknowledge our UAE youth, without whom this would not be possible."

 The UAE’s participation in the Beacon of Hope event underscores its commitment to youth empowerment. The country hosted thirty youth delegates as part of its official delegation to COP22, many of whom attended negotiation sessions, meetings and a Youth Circle on solutions to climate change.