Ras Al Khaimah, UAE: The campus of the American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) celebrated the sights, sounds, smells and traditions of 23 different countries, at the 11th Global Day celebrations held under the theme of "Celebrating Cultures From Across The Globe."

The unique and enriching experience, which echoed the university’s ethos of diversity, featured a nations’ parade, booths showcasing cultures and cuisine of different countries and a fashion show of national costumes from around the world sponsored by AURAK’s Fashion Club to highlight the beauty and elegance of traditional outfits.

Dr. David A. Schmidt, President of AURAK, said: “The Global Day celebrates the rich tapestry of cultures from across the globe. At AURAK, we proudly host a diverse community representing 80+ nationalities on campus. The Global Day provided a significant platform for nurturing cross-cultural understanding and unity within our university community. It offered an invaluable opportunity to break down barriers, exchange knowledge, and celebrate the diverse perspectives that collectively shape the essence of AURAK.”

Prof. Stephen Wilhite, Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs and Student Success and Provost, AURAK, added: “Cultural integration and harmony are key values at AURAK. Global Day 2024 provided the perfect setting for demonstrating this spirit through cultural performances, music, dance and food. It was heartwarming to see our students exploring and appreciating the cultures of their fellow students and making the event a happy global family gathering.”

Colorful booths designed and staffed by students in national costumes and displaying unique national offerings lent an air of harmonious camaraderie. The Sudan booth was adjudged Best Booth, with Ethiopia being declared runner-up. The competition for best cultural performance was also won by Sudan, while Russia and Kazakhstan were declared joint runners-up.

The Parade of Nations featured 23 countries: Bangladesh, China, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, India, Iraq, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Saudi of Arabia, Kurdistan, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, Palestine, Philippines, Russia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Tanzania, Yemen and United Arab Emirates.

The Fashion Show segment was a visual delight of colour and elegance – distinguished with Nigeria’s beautiful ladies’ gowns made of colorful and vibrant fabrics; Chinese silk robes with wide sleeves and intricate art; and Ethiopia’s traditional Habesha kemis and Zuria dresses made of hand embroidered cotton.

There were delicious dishes from every corner of the globe, such as Couscous and Tajines (Morocco); buckwheat porridge and Plov (Russia); Beef and chicken dumplings, Beef hot pot, (China); Kachori, Badia and Urojo (Tanzania); Biryani, Kashmiri chai, rose drink, gol gappay (Pakistan); Bent al sahn, Batat homr, Bakhamri, (Yemen) - Dolma, Kulega (Iraq),  Mansaf (Jordan) - Msakhan (Palestine)  and vine leaves and kebbe (Syria) and several other tantalising dishes.

The event provided rich cultural insights through interactive exhibits the highlights of which were the very first Arabian script discovered in ancient Yemen; vintage Russian dolls; Syrian folklore Dabke dance, and glimpses into the traditions associated with the Emirati Falcon, a symbol of courage and nobility.

About AURAK

Established in 2009, the American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) is a public, non-profit, independent, coeducation institution of higher education which delivers an integrated American-style undergraduate and graduate education with a strong focus on the local indigenous culture. AURAK is officially licensed by the UAE Ministry of Education to award degrees/qualifications in higher education. AURAK is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award baccalaureate and master’s degrees. The University has also earned international accreditation from the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA), the UK’s quality body for higher education. Offering 24 higher education programs across three distinctive Schools, the university is home to nearly 1,300 students from 45 nationalities and supports a network of more than 1,315 alumni. The 1.3 million-square-foot campus in Ras Al Khaimah features cutting-edge technologies, including 50 state-of-the-art labs, a mix of traditional and innovative learning spaces, an onsite sports complex, and a modern library.

This press release is issued on behalf of the American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) by Communicate Gulf FZE, Sharjah, UAE

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Email: anthony@communicategulf.net