Mariam Bint Mohamed Bin Zayed Chairs Inaugural Meetings For Education And Social Sector Committees In UAE

The inaugural meetings of the Private Education Committee and the Social Sector Committee were chaired by H.H. Sheikha Mariam bint Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice Chairperson of the Education, Human Development and Community Development Council (EHCD). These sessions are pivotal in enhancing collaboration among stakeholders to align with the UAE’s strategic vision for education and community development.

H.H. Sheikha Mariam highlighted the necessity of cross-sectoral cooperation to achieve national goals in education and community development. Her Highness stressed that integrating roles among entities is crucial for developing innovative policies that cater to community needs. This integration forms the foundation of the Council’s strategic objectives.

The Private Education Committee meeting examined its mandate and operational framework, focusing on policies related to private education. Discussions emphasised aligning the education system at a national level. Key topics included the Wellbeing Mark under Abu Dhabi’s 2025 Strategy, Arabic Language Education Policy for Early Childhood, and Sharjah’s 2025-2028 Strategic Plan.

Her Highness reaffirmed private education's role as vital to the national system. She stated, "We will work alongside our partners in the Private Education Committee to develop innovative ideas that enhance education quality and support our aspirations for establishing a strong foundation for an advanced and sustainable national education system, one that strengthens the country’s competitiveness and prepares future generations to lead."

The Social Sector Committee outlined its scope, focusing on family and community development strategies. Discussions covered the Ministry of Community Empowerment's strategy for 2025 and the Ministry of Family Affairs’ programs for 2025-2027. The committee also reviewed Abu Dhabi Department of Community Development’s 2025-2027 strategy focused on family growth.

On social sector matters, Her Highness noted, "Our analysis of the current education landscape has identified key areas for improvement, some of which are deeply rooted in the social sector, particularly those related to families. This makes the integration of education, community development, and family support essential."

Strategic Alignment and Governance

The activation of these committees marks a milestone in advancing EHCD's objectives by aligning strategies with national plans. The Council ensures a cohesive approach to addressing community needs while enhancing UAE’s global competitiveness through strategic alignment between policies and legislation.

An Executive Committee was established as part of a new governance framework earlier this year. It reviews detailed plans from relevant entities ensuring alignment with EHCD’s strategic vision. This committee oversees three specialised subcommittees: Private Education, Social Sector, and Higher Education Committees.

The Social Sector Committee also discussed developing a comprehensive family data system aimed at supporting data-driven policymaking. This initiative ensures efficient delivery of family-focused programs while anticipating future social trends and challenges effectively.

During discussions on private education, participants assessed UAE’s performance in the 2023 Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) to explore ways to leverage these results effectively within educational strategies.

H.H. Sheikha Mariam mentioned their thorough assessment of current sector landscapes to outline methodologies gradually activating committee work. "Over the past period," she said, "we have conducted a thorough assessment of the current landscape and structure of the sector, to outline methodologies and gradually activate the committees’ work."

With inputs from WAM