Dubai, Mar 22nd, 2009 (WAM): Under the patronage and in the presence of HRH Princess Haya Bint Al Hussein, Wife of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) on Saturday (March 21) marked the successful conclusion of its 2nd annual festival held under the theme 'Together, We Add Colour to Life'.
The closing ceremony at the Dubai Chamber of Commerce Industry hall included a presentation of awards and certificates to the winners of the contests organised as part of the Festival. Over 100 girls from 20 schools in Dubai participated in various events. Princess Haya encouraged the participation of women in forums, cultural and social events, and noted that such platforms play an important role in building a civilised society based on the solid foundations of science, knowledge and development. Princess Haya also urged SMCCU to intensify efforts to help young talented girls to contribute to the social and cultural progress of the UAE. She commended the Festivals events, particularly the competitions, which had witnessed great enthusiasm and competitive spirit amongst the contestants, reflecting the increasing awareness of cultural understanding among girls in the country. Norma Mohammed Suleiman, Director of SMCCU, said the patronage of Princess Haya and her support of the Festival, an important national initiative, had been an inspiration to the organisers and the participants, who had showed unprecedented enthusiasm. She said: 'The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding took its first steps eight years ago and today we are reaping the rewards of our efforts. The Innovative Pioneers Festival is part of our activities to encourage and motivate female students, and refine their talents'. Prizes were presented to the winners in the four categories of competitions, namely Poetry Recitation, Poetry Writing, Singing and Stage Performance. The sponsors who helped make this years event a huge success were also honoured at the closing ceremony. They included Dutco, Sundos Contracting, Al Manara Jewellery, Nature Construction, World View Communications, Al Shafar General Contracting Co., 2 Creative, Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Al Itihad Co-operative Society.Copyright Emirates News Agency (WAM) 2009.
