What We Do
Tree planting is a learning opportunity to get youth involved in the environment and conservation of our natural world.
As climate change is being felt across the globe and its long term catastrophic impacts have never been so scientifically clear, environmental education is the key to a better future. In an era where more and more children are disconnected from nature, we should recognize the importance of making a real investment in environmental education and outdoor learning. Studies have shown environmental education engages students in learning, raising test scores, and encouraging youth to pursue career in environmental and natural resources. And not only that: environmental education can help children perform better in social studies, science, language, arts, and mathematics.
Our Give a Ghaf tree planting program helps connect students to the benefits of trees and foster environmental stewardship. Tree planting is a great way to increase student interest in their local environment and achieve academic goals. Each school tree planting provides educators with the opportunity to inspire school administrators, faculty and students to affect positive change at their schools and, in turn, their communities.
When students plant trees, they can see for themselves the structure of trees, learn what they need and how they grow. Teachers can use the planting process to discuss the benefits trees provide, while including many subjects that their classes are studying. As trees mature, the trees can be a continuing, personalized way of relating what they’ve learned in books to visible, living examples.
Students become aware that they can play a role in protecting the environment through personal involvement. Ultimately, it is hoped that the experience will help them make intelligent decisions about conservation and use of our valuable natural resources.
In partnership with the Moral Education program
Back in 2016, under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, the Crown Prince’s Court launched values shared by humanity; in line with the UAE’s broadened vision of building a sustainable society, grounded in the happiness, wellness and social well-being of its people.
In 2017, the inaugural UAE Principals Symposium titled “Moral Education: A Pathway to a More Inclusive and Equitable Society” brought together top administrators from the UAE’s 1,300 schools for the first time. Participants focused on the Moral Education as a curriculum designed to equip youth with the skills they need to compete in a rapidly changing global environment while making meaningful contributions to the broader society.
In this particular occasion, Goumbook delivered 1,300 Ghaf trees to all Principals attending the symposium and the Give a Ghaf Tree Planting program was chosen as the Environmental Partner for the ‘Individual & Community’ pillar of the Moral Education. All schools in the UAE are asked to plant Ghaf trees as part of the curriculum and can contact Goumbook to request trees.
