UAE Youth Initiatives Honor Jane Goodall's Conservation Legacy

Young people in the UAE will be encouraged to act as voices for change and promote environmental action through programmes designed to keep the memory of conservationist Dr Jane Goodall alive. Dr Goodall passed away at the age of 91 on October 1, 2025, while on a speaking tour in the US. To mark the one-year anniversary of her passing, the UAE chapter of Dr Goodall’s Roots & Shoots organisation has pledged to expand youth-led environmental initiatives and conservation programmes across the country.

Founded by Dr Goodall in Tanzania 35 years ago, Roots & Shoots is an internationally recognised leadership programme that equips young people with practical knowledge to address environmental challenges. The organisation operates a global network, including a base at the Terra pavilion at Expo City Dubai. Marjan Faraidooni, chief of education and culture at Expo City Dubai, noted that Dr Goodall’s spirit continues to inspire young people who want to make a difference.

As part of the ongoing efforts to honour her life and work, schools, teachers, and community organisations were recognised with awards at a ceremony hosted at Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi. Ms Faraidooni highlighted the partnership with Roots & Shoots, which established its first permanent regional office at Terra in January 2024 to support UAE youth in advocating for people, animals, and the environment.

Building on Dr Goodall's vision, Roots & Shoots UAE aims to connect young people with the natural world. Tara Golshan, executive director of the Jane Goodall Institute, emphasised that the movement continues to grow and urged schools, businesses, and communities to collaborate for a sustainable future.

During the ceremony at Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, UK ambassador to the UAE Geraldine McCafferty presented awards to students, teachers, and schools, reminding attendees that Dr Goodall taught that hope is grounded in action. Professor Nathalie Martial-Braz, chancellor of Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, also underscored the transformative power of education in reflecting Dr Goodall's extraordinary life and legacy.