E-platform in UAE to involve teachers, parents in policymaking

Parents and teachers in the UAE have welcomed the launch of a digital platform, which now allows them to be part of decision-making on educational matters.

The Ministry of Education (MoE) recently rolled out this virtual platform called 'We Make Our Policies' to develop a 'real partnership' with students, parents and educational staff in creating future education policies. Through the platform, the ministry will involve members of the education community in the process of educational decision-making.

Emirati mother Salma Al Katbi said involving parents in the decisions concerning their children's education is "very important". "I am happy with this digital platform. It will give us an opportunity to give our opinion and ideas on education policies and what we think are the best ways our children can be taught."

Another Emirati parent, Abdullah Mohammed, said: "It is a good thing that the ministry is giving families a chance to be an active part of decision-making for their children's education. They can be particularly influential in advocating for good education policies."

Ahmed Ali, a teacher in a public school in UAE, said teachers' opinion could be valuable especially in topics like curriculum design. "Our views can help improve students' learning skills."

Suhail Qudra, a teacher at Arab Unity private school in Dubai, said the platform would also give them an opportunity to freely share their insights.

"Many teachers have brilliant ideas on good education policies, but there has been no chance for them to participate in decision-making until this new platform was launched," Qudra said.

"By bringing teachers into the conversation through this virtual platform, they can contribute to policies and programmes that will be well designed, well received and well implemented in the classroom."

The MoE's new platform is aligned with the national agenda of preparing for the next 50 years. Part of the project declared by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, aims to encourage the country's citizens and residents to present ideas for the future of the nation.

Hussain bin Ibrahim Al Hammadi, Minister of Education, said: "The ministry strongly believes in the importance of integrating the roles of students, teachers, parents and educational policymakers. The platform is a tool that will make all of them cooperate in drafting educational policies more creatively."

ismail@khaleejtimes.com