Dubai: Technology shopping is a top priority as investment in information technology is the way forward for educational reform, the Minister of Education said on Tuesday.
Humaid Mohammad Obaid Al Qutami said his ministry will look into opportunities to acquire new educational tools for government schools at the third annual Global Education Forum (GEF) to be held at the Dubai Airport Expo from February 23 to 25.
"Technology is not just a tool but a must for development. We are working hard to develop the educational system with the help of new technologies on offer. The forum is bringing in more than 200 companies that offer the latest technology in educational tools and teaching solutions for both private and public. We will see what opportunities it offers to our schools," said Al Qutami. He was speaking at a press conference held at the ministry yesterday to announce the opening of the Global Educational Forum held in partnership with the ministry.
Dr Abdullah Amiri, adviser to the ministry, told Gulf News on the sidelines of the press conference that the ministry as a first step has recognised that there is a problem in the educational system. "Now all of us know that it is the top priority to address the pitfalls and gaps. This venue we are providing is one of the ways to increase awareness and get those who take the initiative to come and walk the talk," remarked Amiri.
"We believe in our teachers and their capabilities. The ministry is the policymaker but it is upon the individual schools and principals to bring about change because they are the ones who deal with students day in and day out," Amiri added.
The GEF with its central theme "Connecting learners to communities" will see leading educational think tanks from the region sharing their vision on three topics — use of technology in the school of the future, the role of technology in the educational process and technology for pre-school education. The forum will also have a host of plenary sessions.
This year's forum also attracts educationalists from across the globe providing insight, analysis and best practice to visiting delegates. The Global Education Forum is organised by Fairs and Exhibition in partnership with the Ministry of Education.
