UAE ministers, senior officials, and long-serving teachers have highlighted that the decision to designate February 28 as Emirati Education Day by President Sheikh Mohamed is a significant move that not only recognizes the efforts of educators but also elevates their status and acknowledges their vital role in the nation’s progress. The initiative demonstrates the leadership’s confidence in educators’ ability to cultivate critical thinking and instil national values in students, marking a new phase of excellence and educational leadership in the UAE.
Sara Al Amiri, Minister of Education, emphasized that Emirati Education Day symbolizes the dedication of the wise leadership to the national educational journey initiated by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The day serves as a reminder of the importance of knowledge and learning in sustaining and enhancing the UAE’s achievements across various fields. It also commemorates the accomplishments of partners in the UAE’s development journey, including teachers and educational staff who exemplify the values of the educational message.
Engineer Mohammed Al Qassim, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Education, noted that the UAE stands out globally by establishing its model of excellence in education under President Sheikh Mohamed’s guidance. The initiative highlights the value and impact of teachers’ work in advancing the UAE’s development goals, extending the legacy of the founding fathers who prioritized education as the main driver for comprehensive development in the nation’s journey.
Veteran educators like Sajida Al Bashir, who has been serving in the UAE for three decades, welcomed the Emirati Education Day initiative, emphasizing that it recognizes the invaluable contribution of teachers and underscores the importance of their work. This recognition is crucial in inspiring new teachers and establishing role models for others to aspire to excellence, transcending nationalities and geographical locations within the UAE. Celebrating the initiative at a national level will further boost morale and motivation among educators in the country.
Zeinab Majed, an Assistant Principal with extensive experience in education, praised the initiative for honoring the legacy of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, recognizing the transformative power of education and the essential role of educators in building a progressive society. The commemoration of Emirati Education Day reaffirms the leadership’s trust in teachers and inspires them to continue fostering innovation, critical thinking, and national values among students. This celebration will further inspire educators to strive for excellence in their profession and contribute to the UAE’s growth.
Educational institutions are enthusiastic about organizing events on February 28 to honor teachers and celebrate milestones in UAE education. The day will serve as a valuable platform for educators to reflect on their journeys, engage with the community, and inspire students to understand and appreciate the critical role of education in shaping the nation. Efforts to involve students in meaningful research projects and interviews with prominent figures in education will enhance their understanding of the challenges and achievements in the field. Engaging students in these initiatives will contribute to their holistic development and prepare them to lead the UAE into the future.