UAE Implements New Education Governance Model For Enhanced Human And Community Development

H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, chaired a Council meeting via video conference. The session included Vice Chairperson H.H. Sheikha Mariam bint Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and focused on the progress of transitioning to a new educational structure. The discussion also covered strategic plans to integrate sector files and maintain operational continuity.

Sheikh Abdullah began by reviewing the educational progress as the new academic year started. He stressed the importance of support from teachers and parents, urging them to help students develop effective study plans tailored to their academic levels, abilities, interests, and aspirations. This approach aims to achieve excellence through diligence and hard work.

The leadership has introduced a new governance model for education that prioritises human and community development. The success of this model relies on ongoing collaboration between key stakeholders, known as change ambassadors, within the sector. This model aims to create a sustainable system that prioritises education and development throughout individuals' lives.

Sheikh Abdullah highlighted the importance of elevating educational standards, strengthening development initiatives, measuring the sector's effectiveness, monitoring progress, and achieving targeted results for the entire population. He emphasised that this integrated system would ensure effective communication and cooperation between education, society, and the labour market.

H.H. Sheikha Mariam bint Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan praised school leaders, teachers, and parents for their dedication in fostering stability for the new academic year. She acknowledged the efforts of authorities in equipping schools with necessary resources for a seamless educational experience.

Sheikha Mariam stressed the need for united efforts to drive change by addressing key gaps with strategic innovation for real societal impact. She highlighted education as the foundation for a sustainable future inspired by a visionary approach to progress.

Strategic Plans and Local Impact

At the beginning of the meeting, Hajer AlThehli reviewed developments during the transitional period to the new structure. This includes activating the role of the Council in its new scope and supporting entities in reaching desired goals under this governance model. Plans emphasise efficiency, flexibility, cooperation, and innovation tailored to local community needs.

Sarah Al Amiri outlined the Ministry of Education's transition plan under this new structure. The plan includes merging Emirates Schools Establishment with the Ministry to streamline operations and strengthen the educational framework. It focuses on aligning with national education priorities while fostering greater collaboration among all relevant sectors.

Higher Education Roadmap

During the meeting, Dr. Abdul Rahman Al Awar reviewed the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research's roadmap for improving higher education in line with national priorities. He discussed updates on student admissions for higher education institutions in the first semester of this academic year.

Dr. Al Awar mentioned that over 16,000 students have been admitted to continue their university studies in this first semester as part of efforts to enhance higher education opportunities for UAE nationals.

The meeting was attended by Shamma bint Suhail Al Mazrouei, Minister of Community Development; Dr. Abdul Rahman Al Awar; Sarah bint Yousif Al Amiri; and Hajer AlThehli.

This collaborative effort reflects a vision focused on building a model that prioritises human well-being while ensuring people remain at its core. The approach aims to empower individuals by addressing their needs, abilities, and talents while promoting lifelong learning beyond classrooms.

With inputs from WAM