The Coca-Cola Foundation in partnership with non-profit organisation Injaz Al-Arab has initiated a new semester of the Ripples of Happiness programme across the region.  

Drawing velocity from its previous successes, the programme now returns in full force with the goal of empowering the youth of the region and giving them a nudge in the right direction to create a small difference, with a big chain reaction, said a statement.

The programme has currently grown to demand a presence in six countries and four universities in each, it said.

It now takes place simultaneously across Palestine, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, Jordan and most recently the United Arab Emirates.

Over 1,465 students and 82 volunteers have joined forces and executed over 17,400 hours of community service with ripples washing over a countless number of communities and people.

The objective of the programme to create an opportunity to train university students in the art of identifying opportunities in their local communities and how to implement projects that will leave a positive impact as a strategy to encourage other members of society to follow their lead, thus creating a ‘ripples effect’ that will continue to spread from one generation to another.

Antoine Tayyar, director of Public Affairs and Communications Coca-Cola Middle East Region, said: “We are excited to see what students will come up with this semester, after all the youth are the heartbeat of society thus it’s paramount to awaken social consciousness in their hearts and minds.

“That is the core of the Ripples of Happiness program, to create a sense of self-motivation, confidence and empowerment and enhance the mindset that ‘anything is possible’ among Arab youth. Our partnership with Injaz al Arab is integral as it is evident that there is a need for a program that creates a public/private sector partnership in education that brings private sector volunteers into public school classrooms to provide students with business and entrepreneurial skills. “

Sheikh Khaled Bin Zayed Bin Saqer Al Nehayan, chairman of Injaz-UAE and Injaz Al-Arab, said: “We are thrilled to partner with the Coca-Cola foundation once more to embark on another successful term of the Ripples of Happiness Program. The Coca-Cola Foundation once again contributes to the cultivation of preparedness and compassion among young students allowing them to leave a positive mark on their respective communities, which is a cause that lies at the core of what Injaz al Arab stands for.” - TradeArabia News Service