British principal banned from teaching in UAE

Dubai: A Dubai-based principal has been banned from teaching in the UAE by the Ministry of Education after she was found guilty of discriminating against Arabic and Asian culture in her school.

Patricia Claude, a Briton, who was head of the Dubai Gem Private School, will not be allowed to work in the educational field in the UAE, said a senior ministry official.

The decision to enforce the ban was taken yesterday by Juma Al Salami, Assistant Undersecretary for Private Education.

Dubai Education Zone received numerous complaints against her from both parents and pupils. An investigation was also launched by the ministry.

"We are not questioning her educational qualifications but the ban is because of her behavioural problems. She insulted the culture and the traditions of the country. I took a decision that this person will banned from taking up teaching jobs in the UAE," added Al Salami.

Gulf News learnt that the principal prohibited Quran recitals during school activities.

A parent who did not want to be named said pupils should be taught to respect other cultures and religion.

"The UAE is a country which respects all cultures and religion and if such discriminatory action takes place within school premises it should not be tolerated," she said.

"We need to respect each others' beliefs and opinions. It is unethical to insult religions and imagine that this person is responsible for the education and the raising of our children," said Al Salami.

The principals of various Arabic and Asian schools welcomed the decision taken by the ministry and said such behaviour by a principal should not be tolerated.

Fatima Al Merri, the principal of the Al Raya Girls Secondary School, Dubai said: "The role of a principal is to understand various cultures and traditions to which the pupils belong. A principal is a role model for the pupils.

"The principal is also a leader. Understanding is the key. Respect of religion, customs and culture is a global requirement. We are teaching pupils to love each other," she said.

Malati Das, the principal of Ajman Indian School said: "We should respect all religions. We are free to follow our individual culture and religion in this country."