University of Dubai launches Happiness and Positivity Programme as first of its kind initiative in the world

The University of Dubai (UD) has unveiled a Happiness and Positivity Programme as the first initiative of its kind in the world aimed at spreading happiness and positivity within its community. The announcement follows the UAE Cabinet endorsement of ‘Happiness and Positivity Charter’ recently.

Announcing the programme during the University 2016 Job Fair, Dr. Eesa M. Bastaki, President of the university said, "University of Dubai has committed itself to the call of Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and the UAE leaders to make our beloved country the happiest country in the world."

Dr. Bastaki said the UD Happiness and Positivity Programme is the first of its kind in the world where an institution of higher education has embraced happiness not as the cause of success but as a result of the success it has achieved.

He added that University of Dubai is planting the seeds of happiness in the educational sector considering the sector’s key role in building the country’s future. He said, "We believe that education, innovation, hard work, good ethics, charity, community service, positivity and other good deeds create happiness and not the other way around."

The University of Dubai programme aims to create a proper educational and work environment in order to achieve happiness for the entire UD community. It focuses on spreading happiness and positive attitude among its students, faculty and staff in addition to its vast alumni community.

The programme goes beyond conventional activities and approaches to reinforce values of happiness not only within the UD community but within the other communities associated with University of Dubai. The programme’s objective is to extend its activities to UD stakeholders, parents and families.

The UD Happiness and Positivity Programme will be administered by the UD Happiness Council headed by Hikmat Beaini, who has been appointed Chief Executive of the Council. The Council will measure happiness at the university by conducting surveys and creating UD index of happiness.

The Happiness Council will consist of representatives from students, faculty, staff and alumni. The Council will be responsible for approving objectives and mission statement, conducting happiness surveys every semester and launching happiness activities. These activities include special seminars, workshops, and mentoring sessions on happiness.

The Council will work towards ensuring the best practices for UD human resources and reviewing policies toward happier work environment. It will create best learning environment for UD students and review the learning criteria to achieve happier results.

Other responsibilities of the Council include: reaching out to students’ parents and families to better connect and reflect happiness at UD, advancing health and nutrition practices to fit UD green campus and ensure healthier learning environment, connecting with UAE Ministry of State of Happiness and adhere to its vision and policies.

The Council will share UD findings and practices with other educational institutions locally and internationally. It will also launch special sports and recreational activities to ensure happier body and mind.