Intergenerational Learning Blossoms in Dubai’s Zen Garden

In a remarkable collaboration that bridges generations and cultures, Prof. G. Hariramamurthi, Emeritus Professor of Community Health at The University of Trans-Disciplinary Health Sciences and Technology (TDU), Bangalore, joined hands with his grandson Vishwak, a Grade 11 student at GEMS New Millennium School (NMS), Al Khail, Dubai, to create a living classroom of sustainability.

Together, the duo guided the school in selecting, sourcing, and planting eight medicinal plants in its Zen Garden. These plants, rooted in Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, and Emirati health traditions, highlighting the timeless relevance of indigenous knowledge in modern education.

The UAE’s national tree, the Ghaf, symbolizing resilience and heritage alongside seven herbs and shrubs with medicinal uses ranging from treating inflammation, respiratory and digestive disorders to skin ailments, fever, infections, and veterinary care have been planted in the garden. With the UAE home to nearly 170 native medicinal plants, half overlapping with Indian systems of medicine like Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha, the project underscores the shared wisdom across cultures.

To deepen the learning experience, Prof. Hariramamurthi guided his grandson and friends also produced a photo guidebook, cataloguing each plant with its Arabic, botanical, and Indian names, alongside its medicinal applications. This resource not only educates but also serves as a cultural and scientific bridge, proving that sustainability thrives when knowledge is passed across generations.

 Igniting curiosity and enthusiasm, this initiative unveiled as part of the school’s UAE National Day 2025 celebrations, is more than a garden. It is a spark for students to explore the rich heritage of medicinal plants, their role in health traditions, know about Herbal Home Remedies and connect with nature sustainably. By embedding this knowledge in the school environment, GEMS NMS has taken a pioneering step in nurturing student curiosity, cultural pride, and ecological responsibility.

TDU community applauds the vision and commitment of GEMS New Millennium School in championing such endeavors, ensuring that the next generation grows with both scientific insight and cultural appreciation.

Photo Credit : Mrs. Shilpa N., Parent Relations Executive, GEMS New Millennium School, Al Khail, Dubai, United Arab Emirates.