Gems workshop puts Arabic and Islamic studies at forefront

DUBAI // More than 600 teachers from across the Gems Education network gathered for workshops to improve their skills in Arabic learning and Islamic studies instruction.

It was the first time that Arabic-language teachers working for the world’s largest operator of kindergarten-to-grade-12 schools had participated in such an event.

The workshops were run in partnership with Teacher Learning and Leadership for All (Tellal) with the aim to raise standards as part of the UAE’s mandate to improve Arabic learning and Islamic studies.

“An inspiring teacher is the one who teaches others how to teach themselves, and brings out the best in his students and in others,” said guest of honour Sheikh Abdul Aziz bin Ali Al ­Nuaimi, a member of the Ajman Royal family.

At the Khotwat Le Rehla Azeema (Steps towards a Journey of Excellence) workshop, hundreds of Arabic, social studies and Islamic studies teachers from 26 schools in the Gems network worked with eight Tellal Arabic coaches.

Tellal, the UAE’s first licensed teacher-training institute, provides support for Arabic, Islamic and social studies teachers through training that develops their skills and practice.

The training is provided in Arabic and includes the KHDA exam preparation, teacher ­development, train the trainer and leadership programmes.

“The ability to speak a language gives us a window into ­understanding the culture and values of the place and its people,” said Gems Education managing director Dino Varkey.

“This could potentially mean a generation of students in our schools who will act as a bridge to improve tolerance, understanding and be harbingers of peace in our world.”

Mr Varkey presented teachers from each school with certificates of appreciation in recognition of their commitment to children’s learning.

“Nowadays it is important to focus on self-development to keep up with new trends and updates around us so we’re well prepared for the future,” said Yasser Fayez Mohammad, lead Arabic coach at Gems Education.

“Our teachers are extremely valuable to us because they are responsible for tutoring, nurturing and creating the leaders of tomorrow.”

Deema Al Alami, the network’s senior manager for professional learning and development for Arabic and Islamic studies improvement at Gems Education, said Gems was constantly looking to improve the quality of teaching it provided.

“Tellal manages an Arabic network with over 300 members where we share resources, ideas and learning experiences related to teaching and learning of Arabic,” she said.

Sukwinder Bassi, senior vice president for schools at Gems Education said: “We are also grateful to the team members who have significantly contributed towards leading and developing our Arabic and Islamic studies network.”

The training was done in line with requirements set out by the Knowledge and Human ­Development Authority and Abu Dhabi Education Council.