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Zayed International Foundation for the Environment champions lifelong learning for a sustainable future at an international conference in India

• The International Conference on 'Lifelong Learning for a Sustainable Future: Economy, Environment, Society,' was held from January 6-8, 2025, at the Adi Shankara Institute of Engineering and Technology in Kerala, India
• The Zayed International Foundation for the Environment was pivotal to the success of the conference, setting the stage for continued collaboration and innovation in the pursuit of a sustainable future

The Zayed International Foundation for the Environment (ZIFE) emphasized the power of collaboration and innovation in creating a sustainable future at the International Conference on 'Lifelong Learning for a Sustainable Future: Economy, Environment, Society', held from January 6-8, 2025, at the Adi Shankara Institute of Engineering and Technology in Kerala, India.

The Zayed International Foundation's participation at the prestigious event underscored its commitment to global environmental stewardship and highlighted the importance of innovative approaches to promoting sustainable development. The three-day global conference aligns with the Foundation's mission to promote environmental sustainability through education and global cooperation, and to empower individuals to become responsible stewards of the planet.

Prof. Mohamed Ahmed bin Fahad, Chairman of the Higher Committee of the Zayed International Foundation for the Environment, delivered a keynote speech at the event in the presence of leading national, regional, and international scholars, policymakers, practitioners, and other stakeholders. Representing Zayed International Foundation at the event were Dr. Hamdan Khalifa Al Shaer, Deputy Chairman of the Higher Committee; Dr. Eisa M. Abdellatif, Chief Technical Advisor; and Dr. Saji Ittoop Thomas, Technical Advisor.

Dr. Bin Fahad's thought leadership elevated the conference's focus on sustainable development while the Foundation's delegation advocated innovative solutions and a holistic approach to combating climate change, emphasizing the critical interconnectedness of planetary and human well-being.

In his keynote address, Dr. Mohamed bin Fahad showcased the Foundation's impactful initiatives such as the Zayed International Prize for the Environment, and called on participants to foster international collaboration to advance the UN's Sustainable Development Goals.

He said: "Our shared future hinges on the health of our planet. We must recognize the intrinsic link between human well-being and environmental sustainability, and adopt a holistic approach that integrates economic, social, and ecological considerations. Initiatives like the Zayed International Prize for the Environment exemplify the transformative potential of collaborative innovation. Let us work together, forging global partnerships and sharing knowledge, to build a sustainable world for generations to come."

The Zayed International Foundation was lauded by delegates at the event for its dedication to environmental sustainability and conservation, and for inspiring attendees to embrace sustainable practices and lifelong learning. The conference drew inspiration from the philosophies of the ASEM Lifelong Learning Hub in Ireland, the Adi Shankara Group of Institutions, and the teachings of Shri Kamlesh D. Patel (Daaji), the Global Head of Heartfulness.

Enhanced Global Networks: The conference strengthened the global networks among participating institutions, fostering a spirit of international cooperation and mutual support. These connections are instrumental in advancing lifelong learning and sustainability initiatives.

Strategic Partnerships: The collaborative efforts among ASEM Lifelong Learning Hub, Adi Shankara Group of Institutions, and the Zayed International Foundation for the Environment laid the groundwork for future joint projects and research, particularly in areas of environmental conservation and education.

Holistic Approaches to Education: Integrating Heartfulness principles and the Brighter Minds initiative into the conference agenda emphasized the importance of inner transformation, cognitive development, and emotional intelligence, promoting holistic education.

Innovative Solutions for Sustainability: Discussions and presentations at the conference generated innovative ideas and actionable plans to address environmental challenges. These solutions are poised to have a lasting impact on sustainable development efforts.

The Zayed International Foundation's participation in the conference has significantly shaped its future activities. The insights gained and connections forged will inform the development of new initiatives and projects, aligned with the SDGs. The Foundations membership in the ASEM Lifelong Learning Hub further strengthens its role in promoting lifelong learning and sustainability, fostering crucial collaboration between Europe and the Middle East. This partnership will amplify the Zayed International Foundation's impact and contribute to a broader, more interconnected approach to addressing global sustainability challenges.