Dubai Cares, the UAE-based philanthropic organization working to tackle poverty through education in developing countries, holds its fifth ‘Walk for Education’ on Friday February 7 at the Jumeirah Beach Park.

The event symbolizes the average 3km walk undertaken every day by children on the way to school, and registration cost on the day (between 8am-9am) costs just Dhs30.

For those who complete the walk – which should be all of you – post-walk fun and games will be provided by local radio personality Kris Fade, while a face-painting booth, games arcade, photo booth for photo souvenirs as well as performances by acrobats and the Dubai Police Band will keep the kids plenty distracted.

Speaking on the relevance of the event, Tariq Al Gurg, Chief Executive Officer, Dubai Cares said: “Our leaders have recognized education as a critical factor to our national growth and development. They are constantly working to advance the standards of our educational system to meet the future requirements of our children, so that they can build a more prosperous future, both for themselves and the nation.

“On the other hand, in some developing countries, the chronic deficiencies in infrastructure and the schooling system make it extremely difficult or even impossible for primary age children to go to school. Walk for Education is a call to action for us as a community.  It highlights not only the long distances that children travel every day to go to school, but also the hardships that they have to face.”

He added: “In line with our government’s directive to encourage philanthropy, Walk for Education is one of our local initiatives that offers volunteers, corporations and individuals as well as donors the opportunity to contribute.”

“By walking in these children’s shoes, we hope to not just generate awareness about the situation, but also inspire people to donate their time and efforts as well as encourage future generations to remove these hurdles that prevent children from going to school and learning.”

To register and pay online, or for more information, visit dubaicares.ae.