Shaikh Mohammed's visit like a dream: RAK students

Ras Al Khaimah - "It added more responsibility on our shoulders, and taught us how to take a decision, and how great our leaders are."

"It was like a dream."
"It was an unforgettable visit."
"It added more responsibility on our shoulders, and taught us how to take a decision, and how great our leaders are."
These were some of the responses of students of the Fatima Bint Mubarak School in Ras Al Khaimah where the cabinet meeting was held on Sunday under the presidency of His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
They agreed that Shaikh Mohammed's visit to their school at Al Hamraniya area reflected his concerns about the students of all levels and the fact that they have a great role to play even while studying.
Asma Al Bahri, Emirati student, said that such practices show that the UAE government is investing in the future by creating young leaders and believing in them by involving them in such big meetings.
"Our leaders are teaching us that no matter what your position is, you should be around your nation, listen to them, and encourage and support them."
Mira Mohammed Rashid, an Emirati student, said she had the honour sitting close to the cabinet meeting. She was pleasantly surprised when Shaikh Mohammed asked her name and then commented that it was similar to his. "It was a dream come true for me to see Shaikh Mohammed that close and shake hands with him. I am so happy and inspired to attend such an important meeting."
The visit did have a great impact on Mira. "I wish to grow up fast and take part in making the future of my beloved country and the shiny process of national achievements."
'Brave' Mira, as her friends call her, asked the minister of education to reduce the curricula and time they spend at school, and he promised to look into the issue. "I shall never ever forget this meeting, and wish to be part of a similar meeting, but as a minister in future."
Alia Al Falasi, an Emirati student, said the ministers meeting in a school in the presence of young students indicates how much the government, led by Shaikh Mohammed, cares about the youth's accomplishments.
She added that the meeting was proof that students' efforts are well recognised.
"This outstanding interaction is also a motivator for young Emiratis, mainly students of all levels, to work hard and give back to the country that has invested in us and trusted us with its future."
Aisha Jama, Emirati student, said she learnt how a decision is made at the ministerial level. "Shaikh Mohammed insisted that we attend this meeting to exert our utmost effort and follow the same visionary track."
Hind Humaid, Emirati student, said she was proud to attend the cabinet discussion. "I am so inspired and feel I can do wonders. This visit has given me a great push to complete my studies and specialise in a course that would benefit the country."
Aisha Salem, a mother of two students studying at the school, said the meeting is a message to everyone. "Shaikh Mohammed wants all parents to support their students and prepare them to be the basis of the UAE's successful future projects and plans."
Muftah Al Khatiri, the local official-in-charge of Al Hamraniya area and one of its dignitaries, said his small town made to the headlines after the cabinet visit. "This day shall never be forgotten in our history."
A normal school day turned into a feast for the students, their parents, and the school teaching and administrative staff, he added. "This visit will be a great and interesting story parents can tell their kids and vice-versa."
Dr Ahmed Al Khatiri, Chairman of the RAK Courts, said his quiet town became a busy hub because of the cabinet meeting. "Such smart initiatives reflect the exemplary vision of our leaders."
ahmedshaaban@khaleejtimes.com

• UAE
• Ras Al Khaimah