Dubai Cares, a UAE-based philanthropic establishment, said its ‘Thirst for Education’ campaign is witnessing a sterling response from individuals and the business community across the UAE this Ramadan and termed it a huge success.

Dubai Cares was launched in September 2007 by Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE vice president and prime minister and Dubai ruler to improve children’s access to primary education in developing countries.

The campaign is focused on raising funds to provide children in developing countries with access to clean drinking water in schools - one way is through building wells in schools.

Launched at the start of Ramadan, the campaign will run through Eid al Fitr providing the residents of the UAE an opportunity to contribute to an initiative that will significantly impact the lives of children globally, said a Dubai Cares official.

Over 650 retail establishments have helped make the campaign a success through an ongoing Thirst for Education promotion that enables shoppers to add Dh5 ($1.36) or more to their purchase.

This promotion has proven to be the most popular means of donating funds, with over 35,000 people making donations to date, many choosing to donate at much higher levels, he noted.

Over 18,000 people have pledged their support via SMS with donations ranging from Dh30 to 900 ($8.16 to $245). In addition, contributions continue to be received directly through the mail and on www.dubaicares.ae.

Donation boxes are placed in malls throughout the Emirates and many corporations are conducting CSR campaigns wherein their employees are working together to raise funds to sponsor children's access to clean water in schools.

"Dubai Cares is appreciative of the exceptional support that the UAE community continues to extend towards their initiatives and are grateful for the generous contributions to the ‘Thirst for Education’ campaign," the official said.

"Dubai Cares is confident that the positive momentum will be maintained for the remainder of the campaign’s duration and help in reaching out to many more children with limited or no access to clean water," he added.-TradeArabia News Service