During the holy month of Ramadan, a heartwarming moment of humility was captured when the UAE President, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, took a moment to greet his childhood professor, Ahmed Ibrahim Mandi Al Tamimi, at a gathering. This gesture was unexpected yet deeply touching, as Sheikh Mohamed walked across the room to meet his teacher after recognizing him. The moment was shared in a video by Saif Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, showing the leader embracing his educator and engaging in conversation before returning to his seat. This act highlights the respect and gratitude Sheikh Mohamed holds for his teachers, a sentiment he has expressed before, notably on World Teachers’ Day in October last year. He praised educators for their “dedicated service to the nation,” emphasizing their role in nurturing the next generation.
Sheikh Mohamed’s appreciation for education is further underscored by his declaration of February 28 as Emirati Day for Education in 2024. This date commemorates the graduation of the first batch of teachers from UAE University in 1982, witnessed by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. Additionally, Sheikh Mohamed recently presented the Emirates International Holy Quran Award to Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, recognizing his contributions to the Holy Quran and its reciters.
In another significant event, Sheikh Mohamed hosted an iftar at Al Khawaneej farm, a historic site where the UAE’s founding father, Sheikh Zayed, once discussed the country’s formation with other rulers. This venue holds deep historical significance and was recently designated as the UAE’s third union site. The gathering was attended by leaders from the seven emirates, marking a moment of unity and reflection during Ramadan.
Sheikh Mohamed’s actions demonstrate his commitment to honoring the past while advancing the nation’s progress. His interactions with his teacher and his recognition of educational achievements reflect the importance he places on education and respect for those who have shaped his life and the country’s development.
The UAE President’s gestures are not only personal but also symbolic of the nation’s values, emphasizing respect, gratitude, and the pursuit of knowledge. These qualities are central to the UAE’s ongoing progress and its vision for the future.
