KHDA Introduces Excel Anywhere To Improve Education Quality For Emirati Students In Dubai

The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) has introduced Excel Anywhere, a key initiative under the Education 33 strategy. This strategy, announced by H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, aims to transform Dubai's education system. It focuses on shifting from a traditional model to one that is learner-centric, catering to individual needs and aspirations.

Excel Anywhere is part of 28 initiatives designed to redefine educational experiences in Dubai. These initiatives aim to foster innovation and excellence across all educational levels. The programme seeks to enhance the quality of education for Emirati students through tailored support and data-driven interventions.

The first phase of Excel Anywhere targets school improvement, especially in schools with many Emirati students. Seven schools are participating in this phase: Dubai Schools Al Barsha, Dubai Schools Al Khawaneej, School of Modern Skills Dubai, GEMS Al Barsha National School, Emirates National Schools Dubai, Dubai Modern Education School, and The School of Research Science US High School. These schools collectively enrol 6,500 Emirati students.

Aisha Miran, Director General of KHDA, stated: "Empowering Emiratis with high quality education...is one of the key goals of the Education 33 strategy." She emphasised the commitment to fostering an inclusive education sector that prepares Emirati youth for future leadership roles.

Schools involved in the programme will receive targeted support from KHDA teams. These teams will collaborate with school leaders to implement customised improvement plans and monitor progress. Each school will have an improvement partner focusing on areas like student achievement, leadership, governance, parent engagement, literacy, and teaching standards.

Fatima Bu Ali from KHDA highlighted: "The school improvement programme aims to provide schools with the structured support they need..." She stressed the importance of partnerships between schools and parents in enhancing student success.

Goals and Aspirations

The overarching goal is for these schools to achieve a Good or better rating. This effort aims to improve educational experiences for Emirati students and close performance gaps in international assessments between Emirati and non-Emirati students.

The E33 strategy represents a significant shift in Dubai’s educational landscape. By focusing on quality, innovation, and inclusivity, it ensures every Emirati child has access to exceptional learning opportunities. This initiative supports Dubai's future ambitions by preparing students to contribute positively to society.

With inputs from WAM