Code of conduct for UAE teachers in pipeline

DUBAI // The Ministry of Education is developing a new code of conduct and ethics for teachers after videos appeared on the internet appearing to show teachers attacking pupils.

The code will outline teachers’ obligations and rights in both public and private schools, the ministry said.

“The code complements the behavioural regulations, which the ministry has recently issued for teachers, and it will be applied to all the teachers of public and private schools adopting the ministry’s curriculum,” said a spokesman.

The ministry said it will also listen to the opinions, ideas and suggestions of education professionals to develop a modern code. The draft will then be presented to the educational authorities for feedback.

It will include codes on recruitment, conduct, and technical competence, administrative responsibilities, including teachers’ contributions to the order, discipline, security and safety of pupils.

Teachers’ should also display honesty, trustworthiness, integrity, objectivity and diligence, the ministry said.

They must show loyalty to the UAE and always comply with the country’s principles and laws, respecting pupils regardless of their religion, race or social class.

Last month, Education Minister Hussain Al Hammadi launched a hotline to allow pupils to report any threats to their physical and psychological wellbeing or educational progress.

It was announced shortly after two incidents were filmed and distributed on social media – one in Ajman and one in Fujairah – that appeared to show teachers hitting the children.