DEWA empowers the differently-abled

Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) annually organises a series of events and activities to invest young people and People of Determination’s (POD) time during the summer vacation by enhancing their theoretical and practical skills in sustainability, artificial intelligence, robotics, engineering, science and mathematics.

The programmes promote teamwork and responsibility and strengthen national identity and noble Emirati values. These include the Summer Camp for People of Determination, orphans and employees’ children, ‘Future Engineer’ camps, and in-person and virtual awareness lectures in collaboration with government and private entities across the UAE and Dubai. These support DEWA’s wider community outreach efforts to engage all members of society in improving electricity and water consumption efficiency and preserving natural resources.

The programme includes a wide range of workshops, activities, educational field visits and awareness sessions at some of Dubai’s most prominent landmarks, offering participants first-hand insights into pioneering real-life experiences.

Within an inclusive edutainment environment, the initiatives contribute to instilling innovation and creativity among the younger generation, building students’ personalities by creating spaces for interaction, developing communication skills and raising awareness of sustainability and the protection of the environment and natural resources.

“As part of our social responsibility, we are committed to empowering the next generation of sustainability leaders. We provide them with the tools and skills necessary to ensure they are ready to achieve national goals and contribute to creating a sustainable future. In the Year of Community, we have expanded our community engagement to provide a positive environment centred on developing people and investing in youth as the primary driver of positive change and sustainable comprehensive development. We attach great importance to People of Determination and are keen to consolidate the pioneering model established by the UAE and the Emirate of Dubai in empowering them and providing them with the means of success and excellence through innovative initiatives and strategies.

These aim to integrate them into society and ensure they have the opportunities and resources to participate effectively in the UAE’s prosperity and development on an equal basis with others.

We collaborate with our strategic partners from the government and private sectors to unleash their potential and creativity and encourage them to continuously learn. We empower them to play an active role in society and positively contribute to their communities as productive and creative individuals,” said Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA.

Dr Nadia Al Sayegh, Director General at Senses Residential and Day Care for Special Needs, said: “We express our deep appreciation to DEWA for its pioneering humanitarian initiative in organising the summer camp for People of Determination, orphans and employees’ children.

This initiative represents a living model of community solidarity and comprehensive development. Such programmes contribute effectively to empowering students, enhancing their life and social skills, and boosting their self-confidence within a safe and stimulating environment for creativity. At Senses Centre, we believe in the importance of sustainable community partnerships that open new horizons for our children of determination and integrate them positively into society. We are proud to be part of this constructive collaboration that reflects the vision of the United Arab Emirates in supporting and empowering all segments of society, especially those most in need of care and attention. Our sincere thanks and appreciation go to DEWA and everyone who contributed to the success of this meaningful camp.”

DEWA organised its 2025 Summer Camp for People of Determination, orphans and children of employees in July, hosting 64 schoolchildren. The camp included a variety of activities, workshops and an educational visit to a Mai Dubai factory.

Moreover, DEWA organises two annual ‘Future Engineer’ camps (summer and winter) for the children of its employees, aimed at developing skills in areas such as cyber security, information technology and various engineering disciplines.

Recently, demonstrating its commitment to youth empowerment, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (Dewa) hosted a graduation ceremony at its Campus for Occupational and Academic Development to honour participants of the 2025 Summer Training Programme. Emirati high school pupils and university students were presented with certificates of appreciation and awards to celebrate their successful completion of the programme.

The month-long summer training programme, which was held at a number of Dewa branches and centres, focused on instilling in young Emiratis a strong foundation in professional conduct and workplace ethics, in line with the UAE’s laws and regulations. Participants also explored the principles of 3D printing and gained first-hand exposure to Dewa’s technical, engineering and professional departments – deepening their understanding of operational practices.