Schools spring back to life
After a long summer break more than 1.6 million students across the country arrive for the first day of school today |
Schools across the UAE will spring back to life today, as more than 1.6 million students arrive for the first day of class after a long summer break.
Many new schools will welcome pupils for the first time, while dozens will reopen after undergoing improvements.
Yesterday, the UAE leadership, ministers and other officials congratulated the school community on social media, on the beginning of a fresh academic year.
His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, said on Twitter: “Tomorrow, the new academic year starts and we resume the journey of education for more than one million students ... To them I say: Your schools are developing you to help you build your country. Your schools are granting you knowledge to give us glory in return. Your and our dreams are launched from your classes and from your books, you determine the future of your country, so make your schools your home and I wish you all success.”
His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, also wished students on Twitter: “Tomorrow [Sunday], a new academic year full of positivity and optimism begins. My sons [students], please try to learn as much knowledge and science as you can and commit to the noble values and morals. I hope you diligently and persistently continue your educational journey. Success is no longer an aim but excellence is our end goal.”
Shaikh Mohammad Bin Zayed added: “Our best wishes of more success and giving for the educational staff. We wish they continue promoting an environment conducive for learning, creativity and thinking. We also look forward to a constant and effective contribution of the community and families, following up on students and encouraging them to achieve their ambition and future aspirations.”
Enabling learning
The Ministry of Education said all preparations were in place for the smooth return of around 1.1 million students at 616 public schools in the UAE.
Hussain Bin Ibrahim Al Hammadi, Minister of Education, said the ministry had completed all preparations and arrangements to create an attractive and encouraging learning environment that helps students start the new 2018-2019 academic year with enthusiasm.
“The strategic partnership between the ministry and parents is of vital importance in improving the learning environment in Emirati schools,” he said. The ministry, in cooperation with the Ministry of Infrastructure Development, has implemented a comprehensive plan for the maintenance of 23 schools and replacement of four old schools.
Nearly 35 schools less than 15 years old have also seen architectural, electrical, mechanical and health-related improvements. The ministry also conducted weeklong technical training for 26,000 teachers, before the launch of the new academic year.
This academic year, 13 new private schools — of mainly IB and UK curriculum — are opening in Dubai. Dr Abdulla Al Karam, director-general of the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) in Dubai, said: “Dubai’s education sector has always seen growth and we continue to welcome new schools. The opening of 13 new schools will provide greater choice for parents, as schools offer innovative packages to attract students. The education
Your schools are developing you [students] to help you build your country. Your and our dreams are launched from your classes and from your books, you determine the future of your country, so make your schools your home and I wish you all the success.”
His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai