Hamdan Bin Mohammed Celebrates Formation Of Dubai Student Council For Academic Year 2025-26

The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) has established the Dubai Student Council for the 2025–26 academic year. This initiative, directed by H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, is part of the Leaders of Tomorrow initiative under Dubai’s Education 33 Strategy. The council includes 16 students from Grade 9/Year 10 to Grade 12/Year 13, representing diverse cultures and curricula.

The council's formation aims to enhance student engagement in shaping educational policies in Dubai's private sector. It serves as a platform for students to voice their ideas and contribute to educational development. Members will connect directly with KHDA, fostering collaboration and addressing challenges within the education system.

H.H. Sheikh Hamdan emphasised the importance of this opportunity, stating, "This is an exciting achievement and a great opportunity, and a symbol of responsibility, commitment, and service to your community and fellow students. As a member of the Council, you are now the voice of students in Dubai. You will carry their ambitions, express their ideas, and contribute to developing our education system."

The council's first meeting was attended by Abdulla Mohammed Al Basti, Secretary-General of The Executive Council of Dubai, and Aisha Miran, Director-General of KHDA. During this meeting, members received a copy of ‘Lessons from Life’ by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum as a gift from Sheikh Hamdan.

The council reflects Dubai’s cultural diversity with members from nine nationalities across six curricula. Emirati students and a student of determination are included to ensure genuine representation. Gender balance is also maintained with eight male and eight female members selected based on excellence criteria.

Aisha Miran expressed her congratulations: "We warmly congratulate the students selected for the Dubai Student Council for this academic year. The selection process was thoughtfully planned to ensure fairness, transparency, and diversity." She highlighted that students are central to educational excellence in Dubai.

Selection Process and Membership Criteria

This year saw nominations from 90 private schools covering ten different curricula. From these nominations, 40 students were shortlisted based on specific excellence criteria. Final selections involved interviews and group activities conducted with PwC Consulting to assess leadership skills.

Membership lasts one academic year but can be renewed based on performance and eligibility criteria fulfilment. This ensures continuous contribution towards educational excellence while allowing new voices to emerge each term.

Vision for Educational Excellence

Sheikh Hamdan reiterated that His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s vision focuses on nurturing potential through opportunities that inspire creativity. This vision supports empowering every student in shaping future educational programmes aligned with global standards.

The council's role is crucial in creating an inclusive learning environment that adapts to community needs while promoting innovation among students across Dubai’s private schools.

With inputs from WAM