As the holy month of Ramadan approaches, Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi (SUAD) continues its commitment to social responsibility with a series of impactful initiatives, SUAD has reported. In line with the UAE’s Year of Community, these programs emphasize inclusion, compassion and resilience, creating meaningful change both within and beyond the local community. SUAD’s Ramadan initiatives reflect the university’s values and embody the spirit of giving that defines this sacred time of year.
In partnership with the Emirates Red Crescent, SUAD is actively involved in the Grace Conservation Program, an initiative launched in 2004 to redistribute surplus resources to those in need while promoting social solidarity and stability. Students, faculty, staff, and families come together to provide regular food and grocery boxes to working communities over several days during Ramadan. Their efforts, combining resilience with kindness, support those who are fasting and reinforce the values of unity, generosity, and shared moments of connection during this holy month.
Student-Led Initiatives
SUAD students are actively involved in initiatives and projects that promote inclusion and community support. This month, their efforts included Zero Discrimination Day, organized by the Tolerance Club and SUAD Philosophy Club, highlighting the importance of tolerance and mutual respect. In addition, the student iftar brought students together, allowing international students to immerse themselves in UAE traditions, deepen cross-cultural connections, and gain a deeper understanding of the local culture. The student community also took the initiative to provide campus workers with grocery boxes, strengthening the sense of community on campus.
As part of its ongoing commitment to inclusion, SUAD hosted its third annual Ramadan Climb for Inclusion on March 12 in partnership with Rab3i, a platform that advocates for inclusion and accessibility for determined people. The event, now in its third year, brought together students, families and the local climbing community to celebrate talent while celebrating community spirit, resilience and support. Additional editions of the event are planned for April and May. SUAD also hosted a judo tournament on March 6, encouraging participation from people of all abilities. SUAD’s commitment to community impact extends to animal welfare through the Animal Welfare Club, led by
President Yasmine Almaskari, a student in the Department of Geography and Planning. On March 4, 2025, she gave a well-received presentation to the Sustainability Working Group at Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi. During her presentation, she discussed the upcoming initiatives of the Animal Welfare Club, including the Trap-Neuter-Return Program (TNR), feeding stations and adoption campaign. The club also participates in various activities such as volunteer programs with Emirates Park Zoo and K9 Friends, medical care for stray cats on campus and Cat Yoga Event to promote animal welfare and community involvement.
Donate Your Own Device (DYOD) Campaign
SUAD launched the Donate Your Own Device (DYOD) campaign, which is part of Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s global initiatives to support under-resourced schools around the world. The IT and Corporate Services Department organized and provided over 275 units of IT equipment, including computers, laptops and printers. This initiative empowers students around the world by providing essential learning tools and helping them develop essential digital skills, supporting their ability to create, innovate and succeed in our digital world.
To further support students, SUAD is offering a 10% early bird discount for students who register before April 30. This initiative aims to reduce 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 is available to all new applicants enrolling in undergraduate and postgraduate programs for the upcoming academic year, as well as to Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi’s 3rd level students enrolling in a Master’s program. Through these impactful initiatives, Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi reaffirms its commitment to community development, sustainability and social justice. By empowering students to participate in meaningful projects, SUAD is shaping the leaders of tomorrow while making a lasting impact on society today.