Abu Dhabi: Even though Amal Al Hajiri's son is still in nursery, she is enthusiastic about using the latest initiative launched by the Abu Dhabi Education Council (Adec), the i-ADEC.

"I will definitely download the application once he enters a higher grade because it provides teachers and parents with a better way to communicate instead of taking appointments," Amal, 29, an Omani expatriate who is an IT analyst, said.

"Also, it will help me know what's going on with my son in real time mode, which is a more developed means of communication compared to other means, such as the telephone," she added.

According to officials, the i-ADEC application provides users with exclusive access to additional information, including a pupil's grades and homework assignments.

"Parents and members of the public can communicate with school authorities and the Council in a more efficient manner that will provide increased transparency and credibility among all parties," Dr Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili, ADEC's director general, said.

Getting access

The application is currently available for iPhone and iPad users at the Apple iTunes store for free. Details on how other smartphone users will be given access to it will be announced by the Council at a later date.

Over 1,600 people from the UAE, the region and beyond have downloaded the app since it became available three days ago.