08 October 2007

Dubai: More than Dh811 million has now been raised for Dubai Cares, with more than Dh75 million pledged yesterday alone towards the education initiative to put one million children through primary school.

A cheque for Dh10 million donated by Dubai Sports City was handed over to Shaikh Maktoum Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Technology and Media Free Zone Authority, yesterday.

"Promoting education among needy children and providing necessary funds ... are important goals that require strong support. Dubai's business community has a responsibility to shoulder in that regard," said Abdul Rahim Bel Gozoz Al Zarouni, Chairman of Dubai Sports City (DSC) in a statement.

Tatweer, a member of Dubai Holding, also announced a Dh60 million donation, with executive chairman Saeed Al Muntafiq speaking of the company's commitment to Dubai Cares.

'City with soul'

"Our commitment ... comes from the vital role this initiative plays in the positioning of Dubai as a city with a soul. The vision of His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to reach out to those in need beyond domestic borders reflects Dubai's standing as a global citizen," he said in a statement.

Real estate developer Tameer also pledged Dh5 million and the company's president, Omar Ayesh, said the campaign tackles a "very important issue that is close and very dear to our hearts".

"Tameer's contribution is our response to the call of duty and an expression of our commitment to participate hand in hand with other donors - both individuals and companies - to realise the goals of this campaign," he said.

Dubai Men's College yesterday launched its fund-raising initiative for Dubai Cares that will initially target the college's students and staff, before branching out to incorporate other Higher Colleges of Technology campuses.

"The initiative of the Higher Colleges of Technology reflects the commitment of the students, staff and administrative members to the Dubai Cares Campaign," Dr Abdullah Al Karam, Chairman of the Board of Directors and Director-General of Knowledge and Human Development Authority in Dubai said in a statement.

By Zoi Constantine

Gulf News 2007. All rights reserved.