Arab Reading Challenge to honour student champions on October 29

More than 40 million students across 60 countries have taken part in the latest Arab Reading Challenge, with the young readers’ achievements set to be celebrated at a ceremony in Dubai on Thursday (October 29).

The 10th edition of the initiative attracted 40,286,428 students, its highest participation since the challenge was launched in 2015. The closing ceremony will be held at Dubai World Trade Centre under the patronage and in the presence of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai.

The initiative, organised by Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI), aims to encourage a lasting love of reading, strengthen Arabic-language skills and help young people develop their knowledge and understanding of the world.

“The future of a nation begins with nurturing its young minds. Our investment in the Reading Challenge is an investment in a better future for all,” Sheikh Mohammed said.

He also highlighted the role of Arabic in human and social progress, saying: “For centuries, the Arabic language served as the driving force for human and social progress. It will restore its former glory once again with the dedication and brilliant minds of its youth.”

This year’s participation represents a 24 per cent increase on the ninth edition and includes 74,062 students in the People of Determination category. The challenge engaged 138,426 schools and 161,507 supervisors.

Mohammad Al Gergawi, secretary-general of MBRGI, said the record turnout showed the initiative’s growing reach across the Arab world and beyond. “The 10th edition is a major milestone for the Arab Reading Challenge, drawing a record-breaking participation of over 40 million students and expanding across 60 countries for the first time. This remarkable reach reflects the deep appreciation and support the initiative commands across the Arab world and beyond, from communities and governments alike,” he said.

The October 29 ceremony will recognise the overall Arab Reading Challenge champion, the People of Determination champion, the Best School, the Outstanding Supervisor and the Communities Champion.
The overall champion will receive Dh500,000, while second and third place will receive Dh100,000 and Dh70,000, respectively. The school awarded the Best School title will receive Dh1 million.

Other awards include Dh200,000 for the first-place winner in the People of Determination category and Dh200,000 in total for the Communities Champion category. The Outstanding Supervisor title carries Dh300,000 for first place.

The Communities Champion category is open to students living outside the Arab world, non-native Arabic speakers and those learning Arabic as a second language. Students in the People of Determination category are required to read 25 books.

Since its launch in 2015, the challenge has grown substantially. Participation in this year’s edition is more than 11 times the 3.6 million students who took part in its inaugural year. CAM/Expat Media

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