UNICEF and UAE Ministry of Education Announce Winners of The Blue Dot Art Competition at COP28

Dubai, 15 December 2023 - UNICEF, in partnership with the UAE Ministry of Education, is proud to announce the winners of The Blue Dot Art Competition held in conjunction with the COP28 World Climate Conference. This competition highlights the creative expressions of young artists from around the globe, focusing on the impacts of climate change on marine life and our planet. 

With submissions from 780 children and young people across 28 countries, the competition showcased a stunning array of artworks, depicting polar bears, whales, turtles, and nature suffering from industrial pollution. These pieces symbolize a unified call for action to preserve the Earth. 

The competition, a part of the Greening Education Partnership in the UAE, provided a platform for young talent to voice their concerns about the oceans and climate change through art. Out of numerous submissions, 30 exceptional artworks were selected for display at the Greening Education Hub at Expo City Dubai. 

“Children play a significant role in advancing positive change and achieving environmental sustainability. The Blue Dot competition provided children with a meaningful opportunity to express themselves and share their views on how climate change is affecting the oceans through art”. Her Excellency Dr. Amna Al Dahak Al Shamsi, the assistant undersecretary of the care and capacity building sector at the Ministry of Education.

"We are immensely proud of the 30 winners of the Blue Dot Art Competition. Their art is not only visually compelling but also a poignant reminder of the urgent need to address climate change," stated Eltayeb Adam, UNICEF Representative of the Gulf Area. "These young artists have used their creativity to advocate for our planet, and we are honored to showcase their work." 

The Blue Dot Art Competition serves as a testament to the power of art in driving meaningful conversations about environmental conservation. UNICEF and the UAE Ministry of Education congratulate all participants for their inspiring contributions and commitment to a sustainable future. 

UNICEF and the UAE Ministry of Education are committed to fostering educational initiatives that promote environmental awareness and action among young people worldwide.