Heavy rains and thunderstorms on May 2 prompted the UAE government to switch to remote learning for students, causing disruptions in exam schedules for many. Despite the challenges, students like Hassan had to physically attend school to write their board exams. Hassan’s mother, Naveeda Jukaku, made sure he had transportation to reach school on time, with Hassan being picked up at 5.20 am for a 12.30 pm exam.
GCSE and A level board exams take place over several weeks, with the board providing contingency days in case students miss an exam. The decision on how to manage these contingency days depends on the school and region. It was not the first time Hassan had to brave adverse weather conditions to write an exam, as during a thunderstorm on April 16, he had to wade through knee-deep water to get to school.
The heavy rains and thunderstorms caused a deserted look in schools, with only students of Hassan’s grade present. Despite the unusual calm and quiet, Hassan found it beneficial for revising and preparing for his exam. Dubai resident Simi’s children also had exams on the same day, and they left early to avoid any potential disruptions caused by the rain. Fortunately, by pick-up time, the weather had cleared, and they had a smooth journey to and from school.
The disruptions caused by the inclement weather highlight the importance of being prepared and adaptable during exam periods. Students and parents had to make extra efforts to ensure that students could attend exams on time and without any issues. With proper planning and communication, they were able to overcome the challenges posed by the weather conditions.
As the UAE experiences unpredictable weather patterns, it is essential for schools and students to have contingency plans in place for exam days. Communication between schools, parents, and students is crucial in ensuring smooth operations during such disruptions. Despite the challenges, students like Hassan and Simi’s children were able to navigate the situation and successfully write their board exams.
