Abu Dhabi: A top education official on Sunday visited the public school where murdered American teacher Ibolya Ryan used to work, the Abu Dhabi Education Council (Adec) announced in a statement.
During her visit to Al Oula Kindergarten, Dr Amal Al Qubaisi, director-general of Adec, expressed her sincere condolences to the staff for the loss of their colleague.
Ryan was brutally stabbed to death on December 1 in the washroom of Al Boutik Mall on Reem Island.
Police arrested the main suspect, a 38-year-old Emirati woman, within 48 hours of the incident.
“I am sure that the spirit of cooperation among all Adec staff, both Emirati and expatriate, will not be affected by such a tragic incident. We have always been keen to support teachers in order to overcome any challenges or obstacles they may face,” Dr Amal said. She also emphasised that the public school system had lost a loyal teacher who would always be remembered for her passion and dedication towards teaching.
“Any harm inflicted on any educator affects each and every member of our big family,” Dr Amal said, adding that the council would continue to provide the necessary support and care to Ryan’s family during this critical period.
In a statement issued over the weekend, Adec had offered financial support for Ryan’s three children, aged 13 and 11.
Ryan had been working at the public school, located in Abu Dhabi’s suburb of Bani Yas, since September 2013.
“The UAE is known for its tolerance and harmony towards all nationalities. We are a country that respects and encourages all cultures to live in peace and security. And we will continue to be a safe place for people from all backgrounds to safely live and work in,” Dr Amal said.
She also thanked the Abu Dhabi Police Headquarters, and Lt Gen Shaikh Saif Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, for his tireless work in identifying and arresting the suspect.
