Education entrepreneur Sunny Varkey has pledged Dhs100 million to support the “Mother of the Nation Endowment for Orphans” campaign launched by Awqaf Abu Dhabi.
The initiative is held under the patronage of Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and aims to create a sustainable fund to support orphaned children across the UAE.
Endowment support
The endowment is designed to provide long-term access to quality education for orphans. It focuses on improving social integration and economic empowerment, with the goal of helping beneficiaries build stable and independent lives.
The campaign was launched on February 18, 2026, and aligns with the UAE’s Year of the Family. It also seeks to strengthen the role of waqf as a tool for social development and community participation.
Sunny Varkey, Chairman and Founder of Varkey Foundation and GEMS Education, said: “We are proud to support the Mother of the Nation Endowment for Orphans, an inspiring initiative that reflects the UAE’s global leadership in compassion, sustainability, and long-term social development. This forward-looking model of giving ensures that support for orphans is not temporary, but enduring, providing dignity, stability, and opportunity for generations to come.
Giving has always been at the heart of our family’s values. Through this endowment, we hope orphaned children will grow up with security, access to quality education, and the confidence to dream of a brighter future. Education remains the fundamental pillar of a sustainable and prosperous society. By empowering young people with knowledge and opportunity, we not only transform individual lives, but also contribute to the advancement of the nation.
“We commend Awqaf Abu Dhabi for its leadership in developing innovative endowment models that deliver lasting social impact, and we are honored to collaborate on this noble national initiative that embodies the values of solidarity and social cohesion that distinguish the United Arab Emirates.”
Education philanthropy
Sunny Varkey is the founder of the Varkey Foundation and GEMS Education. He is also known for supporting the Global Teacher Prize initiative, which recognises educators worldwide.
The new endowment campaign highlights continued private sector support for social initiatives in the UAE, particularly in the field of education and child welfare.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
