Private schools would be expected to teach all pupils about UAE culture and history under new proposals being considered by Abu Dhabi’s education regulator.
Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) said there should be greater emphasis on national identity and the history of the nation.
It follows an online study into how the teaching of UAE culture could be improved and visits to schools in the emirate.
ADEC said some private schools lack guidelines on regulations regarding national identity.
Among the recommendations is that both Emirati and expat pupils are expected to have knowledge of environmental issues, a knowledge of physical geography of the UAE and knowledge of the UAE’s past, present and future economy.
It also states they should have an appreciation of Arabic calligraphy, art and crafts and an appreciation of the traditional dress and customs.
Lastly, pupils are expected to be able to sing the national anthem in their own language and in Arabic, although ADEC did not set out plans for wider teaching of Arabic language.
Hamad Al Dhaheri, ADEC’s private schools and quality assurance executive director, said: “The school visits identified positive, good practices, accompanied by some confusion as to what was appropriate when introducing activities related to national identity and culture, given the wide range of curriculums and children’s diverse backgrounds.”
He added: “A number of schools requested that ADEC provides more clarity and direction in its regulations regarding national identity, which we will definitely take seriously and work on.”
Al Dhaheri said ADEC is taking on board suggestions from teachers, parents and other professionals.
He said: “The most successful strategy plans are those that are derived from gathering ideas and suggestions from the individuals concerned… which is exactly why ADEC is taking this study seriously, and will include some of the suggestions and recommendations.”
© 7Days 2015
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