Dubai hosts ‘Schools for the Future’ conclave

Global experts explore potential solutions to address issues in education

AGlobal Education Conclave addressing critical issues in education around the globe was held in Dubai yesterday.

The Education Conclave on the ‘Schools for the Future’, organised by Kyra Global in partnership with The American University in the Emirates, explored potential solutions to redesign and build schools for the future.

The day-long conclave reflected on ways to equip schools with tools to meet demands of the future.

Other points discussed revolved around teachers in the emerging knowledge society, leadership for excellence, skills for the future and the role of ed-utech: potentials and pitfalls.

Professor Muthanna G. Abdul Razzaq, Founder and President of the American University in the UAE, stressed that the future of schools lies in the efficiency of its teachers. “I believe education is about 70 per cent practical teaching and only 30 per cent theory. We need teachers today to be equipped with tools to enable practical learning for students. I don’t believe any student fails. If a student underperforms, it is the responsibility of teachers to deliver education in the best possible manner.”

“One of the things we have done in our university is set up 3D printers in student labs as part of their digital animation course. These printers come at a price but we decided to set it up in the students lab so they learn to operate it. Educators need to do this, give their students beneficial experiences.”

K.P. Nair, Managing Director of Kyra Global, said one of the goals of the conclave is to evaluate how technology serves as a potential solution for imparting education.

Tadu Mamu, Consul (Press Information, Culture & Labour) at the Education Conclave, said the Indian government has tapped a series of solutions to equip young minds to become leaders. “India and the UAE have a great partnership. The success of the partnership was proved when a historic announcement was made last year to set up an Indian Institute of Technology in Abu Dhabi.”