UAE Labour Day: 15 Workers Granted AED25,000 Scholarships for Kids

In an initiative by Etisalat to mark Labour Day/ International Workers Day, fifteen construction workers of various nationalities were given Dh25,000 scholarships towards their children’s education.

Workers from four labour camps in Dubai were transported to a site, where they were asked to piece together a massive tile structure that had a message which read: "You’ve built today, so let us build your child’s tomorrow".

“The contributions [of these workers] to the society and economy are invaluable, as they play a key role in the construction of world-famous skyscrapers and iconic sites. It is but fitting for us to mark Labour Day by paying tribute to their hard work and sacrifices.” Said Dr Ahmed bin Ali, Group Senior Vice President, Corporate Communications, Etisalat.

Abdul Latif Awan, a 65-year-old father of two from Rawalpindi, Pakistan, said: “I had never imagined that my prayers this Ramadan would be answered and that I would get such a big reward, so that my children’s life would be taken care of. I have given 38 years of my life in this country, and this country has given me such a big parting gift. I will cherish this all my life.”

Overwhelmed, 34-year-old Indian Shaikh Riyazuddin said: “I want our adopted daughter to get a higher education so she can stand on her own two feet and be ready for the world. I am very happy that I will be able to give her a good education.”

Mohammed Firoj Mia, Bangladeshi father of two who arrived in Dubai in 2004, said, “With this money, I can help build a brighter future for my family and also save for their future. I’m very grateful. Now, I can fulfil a very big dream of mine.”

Image Credit: Video Snap