Public schools in the UAE are undergoing a significant change in terms of student evaluations. Instead of traditional written exams, students in grades 5 to 8 will now be assessed based on their skills through project-based assessments. This decision was announced by Sarah Al Amiri, the Minister of State for Public Education and Advanced Technology, with the aim of enriching students’ learning outcomes by putting theoretical knowledge into practical application.
Al Amiri emphasized that this shift in evaluation methods is a gradual cultural change rather than a drastic one. According to her, the final exam does not accurately reflect a student’s comprehensive understanding of the curriculum. Therefore, any changes in the educational process must be carefully measured to meet students’ needs and support their educational journey. Although the specifics of how student projects will be evaluated are yet to be disclosed, this new approach aims to provide a more holistic assessment of students’ abilities.
In addition to altering assessment methods, the ministry has reduced the passing rate from 70 to 60 percent. This change is part of the broader effort to enhance the education system in the UAE. Furthermore, the ministry announced the opening of 25 schools, with 12 new schools and 13 reopening after comprehensive maintenance. Additionally, more than 5,000 new buses have been introduced to facilitate transportation for students.
As the new academic year approaches, educational institutions are actively preparing for the students’ return. They are distributing welcome-back kits, setting up parent orientation websites, and coordinating staggered start times to alleviate traffic congestion on the first day. Concurrently, parents are getting ready for the new school year by shopping for supplies and managing their expenses efficiently. Some parents in the UAE are spending up to Dh2,000 per child on back-to-school essentials, highlighting the financial commitment involved.
In line with the educational reforms, UAE officials noted that approximately 20,000 students transitioned from private to public schools in 2023. Moreover, more than 280,000 students are expected to return to government schools on August 26, indicating the scale of the public education system in the country. The introduction of skills-based evaluations and other changes reflects the UAE’s commitment to enhancing the quality of education and supporting students’ academic journey. Stay tuned for further updates on the educational reforms in the UAE.
