Emphasizing that education in the UAE serves as a role model both regionally and globally
The National Library and Archives Highlights Educational Development in the UAE and Methods for Sustainability
In conjunction with the new academic year, the National Library and Archives (NLA) showcased the most prominent achievements in the UAE’s educational journey. As a pioneer in developing the Arab educational system, the UAE has reached significant milestones, with the first fruits being the quality of education that aligns with national strategic goals. This progress contributes to building a sustainable knowledge-based economy and enhancing the capabilities of future generations.
The lecture, delivered by Dr. Labeeb Ahmed Bsoul, Professor of Humanities and Social Science at Khalifa University, was part of the NLA’s interest in the educational process as a strategic partner in the national upbringing of the new generations. Through its national educational programs, the NLA is committed to fostering values such as instilling a sense of belonging to the homeland, enhancing loyalty to the wise leadership, and strengthening national identity.
The lecture began with an overview of early interest in education then addressed the historical development of education in the UAE, including advancements in educational infrastructure. It also focused on smart education, curriculum development, and educational innovation. It also shed light on staying current with the fourth revolution, international cooperation programs, technical and vocational education, sustainability in education, future preparedness, and the UAE Vision for Education 2030.
The lecture emphasized the country’s commitment to early education by providing innovative curricula and educational programs designed to strengthen children’s skills. Additionally, it highlighted the significant investments made in schools and colleges during the current phase. Schools have been established, government and private schools have been developed, and colleges have been expanded to meet international high standards and equipped with the latest educational technologies.
The lecturer mentioned that the UAE was among the first countries to adopt the concept of smart education. He added that the UAE continually updates its education curricula according to international standards, encourages scientific research at colleges, and launches innovation labs in schools and academic institutions. Furthermore, the UAE has adopted teaching students how to deal with and benefit from the Fourth Industrial Revolution, including artificial intelligence, and robotics into the curriculum.
The lecturer supported his presentation with concrete examples, such as the establishment of high-level universities, the promotion of vocational and technical education, and practical training programmes.
Regarding sustainability initiatives in education, the lecture highlighted that the UAE’s efforts to integrate sustainability into the education system play a significant role in raising students’ awareness in environmental preservation. Additionally, these efforts contribute to developing sustainable solutions and implementing green education initiatives to create eco-friendly schools and colleges. Sustainability is included in the curriculum, and students were being prepared to face the future.
The lecture, hosted at Mohamed bin Zayed Hall at the NLA, emphasized that education is not exclusive to any particular group and is available to everyone, including women. Women have the same right to education as men. Additionally, people of determination have access to comprehensive educational programs.
In concluding the lecture, several Federal Government initiatives in the field of education were highlighted, including the UAE Continuous Education initiative, and reading for all initiatives, and efforts to enhance the quality of education, support scientific research, and stimulate innovation.
The lecture emphasized that the UAE’s educational achievements have made its educational journey a role model both regionally and globally. The UAE has made significant progress in various aspects of the educational process and its sustainability, believing that education is a key pillar of inclusive development and a central element of UAE Vision 2071 that seeks to make the UAE one of the world’s leading countries in education and scientific research.
It is worth noting that the NLA has published the book “Development of Education in the UAE (1904-1971),” which documents the early education in the country from 1904 to 1971.