In an effort to promote volunteerism among AUS students, Community Services conducted the Takatof Volunteering Essentials Certificate Training in collaboration with Takatof, one of the principal initiatives of the Emirates Foundation, a social program to foster a culture of volunteering throughout the United Arab Emirates. The initiative is under the guidance of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and Ruler of Abu Dhabi; and the direction of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces.

Held on campus from September 26 to 27, the training sessions were aimed at educating students about social welfare and providing them with the requisite skills and knowledge for voluntary work. Takatof training also provides students with the basic framework to be able to successfully plan and implement social service initiatives. More than 130 students attended the training sessions, which were delivered in Arabic and English.

"Many young people are highly driven and passionate about social causes but they either lack the foundation or the ability to translate their vision into action. The Takatof training sessions provided ample information that will enable them to channel their energy into initiatives that can positively impact the society. It is our aim to provide our students with the right tools and knowledge for them to become effective individuals and contribute to the society," said Dr. Moza Al Shehhi, Dean of Students.