Education chiefs discuss plan to hire Emirati teachers

High-ranking representatives of 185 private schools in Abu Dhabi meet Abu Dhabi Education Council officials to discuss the 2012-2013 academic year.

ABU DHABI // School inspection reports, national identity and electronic information systems were all on the agenda yesterday when representatives of 185 private schools met Abu Dhabi Education Council officials.

The meeting, held to discuss the 2012-2013 academic year, also included talks on new regulations facing the emirate's schools and a plan to employ more Emirati teachers.

Hamad Al Dhaheri, the executive director for the council's Private School and Quality Assurance sector, said his department hoped to improve communication with private schools on issues such as inspection reports.

"Making inspection reports available helps create a comprehensive evaluation system based on international standards and develops evidence-based policies and programmes to serve the Abu Dhabi 2030 vision," Mr Al Dhaheri said.

"Our main aim is to help raise the quality of education across schools in the emirate of Abu Dhabi by working hand in hand with school leadership and management in improving their schools' performance, standards and competitiveness."

Mr Al Dhaheri highlighted the council's strategic plan 2013-2017 and its efforts to promote national identity. The plan calls for greater employment of Emirati teachers in private schools and internships at private schools for Emirati students who are preparing for bachelor degrees in education.

Pupils will be required to learn more about the UAE's heritage and culture through trips to museums, archaeological sites and heritage places.