• 7 February 2014

Tariq Al Gurg, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Cares, led an 8,000-strong group of participants of all ages and nationalities, at Dubai Cares’ Walk for Education 2014. The fifth edition of the annual three kilometer walk was organized by Dubai Cares to underline the significance of quality primary education in developing countries and was held at Jumeirah Beach Park on February 7, 2014.

Over the past five years, the family-friendly community event has helped Dubai Cares underscore the importance of education to global welfare whilst providing a community-focused event that engages children, families as well as public and private sectors. Participants from all facets of society came together for the Walk and post-Walk celebrations, which were hosted by popular radio personality Kris Fade. Families and children gathered at Jumeirah Beach Park after the Walk to enjoy a range of activities, which included a face-painting booth, games arcade, children’s games, photo booth and performances by acrobats.

The Walk was organized to call attention to the rigors and challenges primary-age children in the developing world face in order to access education. On average, these children walk three kilometers every day to attend school. During his participation in the Walk, Tariq Al Gurg, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Cares, thanked the 8000-strong crowd saying: “Although our philanthropic work is based in developing countries around the world, the UAE community has always been our pillar of strength and support. Thanks to your constant generosity, in terms of time as well as funds, we have been able to reach over 8 million children across 31 countries and provide them with the tools to break the cycle of poverty and build a future of personal, professional, economic and social prosperity.”

In his concluding remarks, Al Gurg applauded the volunteers and sponsors of the Walk for an engaging and entertaining event, saying: “Chevron Al Khalij, our main sponsor for the past two years, has been a strong ally in our mission to generate awareness about the work we do. Through their example of corporate citizenship, Chevron Al Khalij has further reinforced their standing as a global powerhouse and local community leader. I would also like to thank our volunteers, whose tireless work behind the scenes helped bring this great event to life. Their enthusiasm and passion has helped us succeed in creating an impactful Walk for Education for the fifth year running.”

Commenting on the fifth edition of Dubai Cares' Walk for Education, Her Excellency Reem Al Hashimy, UAE Minister of State and Dubai Cares Chairperson said: “I am delighted to learn that a dynamic and energetic group has gathered today to promote a cause that is integral to growth and development in today’s world - education. As a community, we have constantly channeled our energies, not only into realizing our own goals but also in empowering developing countries around the world. The strong turn-out today is testament to the importance we as a community place on investing in youth, in the UAE as well as around the world, through quality education.”

Chris Bradley, Chevron Country Chairman UAE said: “Chevron colleagues, their families and friends joined in this wonderful community event and had a truly memorable day.  Chevron is very pleased that its support of the Walk for Education ensures that Dubai Cares can further its vitally important work providing quality primary education in developing countries. We all enjoyed this excellent day which has such a very special purpose.”

Priti Vyas, one of the participants at the “Walk for Education 2014” commented: “Every year I contribute to Dubai Cares and I really appreciate the work they do. I will continue supporting them and would like to get involved more in their community activities such as the Walk for Education.”

The Dubai Cares’ Walk for Education 2014 was sponsored by Chevron Al Khalij (main sponsor), Arabian Radio Network (media sponsor), and supported by organizing partners; Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services, Dubai Municipality, Dubai Police, Dubai Sports Council, RTA as well as in-kind contributors Almarai, Almaya Group, Dubai Drums, Frenzy Entertainment Services and Sky High Events, Golds Gym, Imprint Studio, LSV, Masafi, Meydan Theatre, Nestle, Paris Gallery, PepsiCo, Prisme International, Unilever  and Valtrans.

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