Dubai: The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) hosted the Emirati Educator Forum, gathering approximately 100 Emirati educators from private schools and early childhood centers across Dubai. This event underscores Dubai’s commitment to empowering national talent and expanding opportunities for Emiratis in the private education sector, emphasizing the crucial role educators play in shaping future generations and reinforcing national identity.

The forum is part of the Emirati Educator Strategy, which has been approved by The Executive Council of Dubai. This initiative aims to increase the number of Emirati teachers in the emirate’s private education sector to 3,000 by the year 2033. The strategy aligns with the objectives of the Education 33 Strategy (E33), focusing on strengthening national identity in private schools while enhancing the overall quality of Dubai’s education ecosystem.

Investing in National Talent

Amina Alkawari, Director of Educator Empowerment at KHDA, articulated the national responsibility that Emirati teachers hold, which extends beyond the classroom. She stated that empowering Emirati educators is a reflection of the leadership’s vision to invest in people, elevate the teaching profession, and promote excellence and sustainability in education.

Alkawari emphasized that supporting teachers is a direct investment in the quality of education. She confirmed that KHDA will continue to create pathways for professional growth, enabling Emirati educators to make a significant impact within Dubai’s educational community. The forum also served as a platform for knowledge exchange, professional networking, and exploring innovative solutions aligned with the Emirati Educator Strategy.

Strengthening National Identity

The event facilitated interactions among retired Emirati education leaders, current educators, and recent graduates, fostering mentorship and the transfer of knowledge and experience. Participants noted that the Emirati Educator Strategy plays a pivotal role in encouraging more Emiratis to pursue careers in teaching.

Emirati teacher Seham Alhajri described the strategy as a vital national step towards reinforcing national identity within private education. She remarked that the initiative, along with KHDA’s efforts to attract Emiratis to private schools, is crucial for embedding Emirati values among future generations. Alhajri highlighted that the role of Emirati teachers transcends academic instruction, encompassing the sharing of the UAE’s culture, values, and identity with students.

Supporting Educational Transformation

Wedad bin Turkiya, another Emirati educator, noted that the strategy reflects Dubai’s commitment to enhancing Emirati participation in private education while simultaneously advancing the broader education sector. She pointed out that the Education 33 Strategy signifies a comprehensive transformation across all educational aspects, showcasing the unique contributions Emirati educators bring through their understanding of national culture, traditions, and heritage.

Shaikha Mohammed, an Arabic language teacher at a private school in Dubai, remarked that the forum provided valuable opportunities for exchanging experiences and learning from fellow educators. She noted that the event reflects the support Dubai offers teachers from the outset of their professional journeys.

Focus on Innovation and AI

The forum included a series of interactive workshops centered on modern Arabic language teaching methods, education management, and the integration of artificial intelligence in teaching and learning. Participants explored how AI can alleviate administrative burdens, enhance teaching practices, and improve educational outcomes.

A panel discussion featured the professional journeys of three Emirati teachers, highlighting their experiences and contributions to the education sector.

Continuing Support for Emirati Teachers

KHDA reiterated its commitment to supporting Emirati educators through various initiatives, including Teach in Dubai, All Rise, and the Leaders in Education Programme. This program was launched under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai.

The initiatives connect Emirati teachers with leading education experts, offering mentorship and personalized development plans aimed at enhancing professional capabilities, job satisfaction, and the retention of national talent within the education sector. KHDA stated that these efforts reinforce the role of Emirati teachers as educators, mentors, and role models, contributing to the development of future generations while supporting Dubai’s ambition to establish a world-class, future-ready education system.