UAE parents welcome distance learning extension: 'Our children's safety comes first'

Dubai: The UAE government's decision to extend distance learning until April 17 amid regional tensions has been met with relief and gratitude by parents, who say their children's safety outweighs any disruption to routine.

For Praseetha Rajesh, a mother of two whose elder daughter Anushka is a university student and younger daughter Anvi is in Year 1, the extension has come as a genuine relief.

"These are uncertain times and parents are concerned about the safety of their children more than anything else, so we wholeheartedly welcome the UAE's decision to extend distance learning," she said.

While she understands that university students enrolled in programmes requiring physical attendance have been permitted to return to campus, she says remote learning is a particular relief for parents of young children.

"Even if children might be safe inside schools, parents will always worry about what could happen if there is a public safety alert while they are on the move. Online classes can of course disrupt routine and affect children's social interactions. We do have those concerns, but at this point in time, their safety and our peace of mind are what matter most. I thank the authorities for understanding that."

Resilience in action

Ambica Sachin, whose son Dhruv is in Year 6, says the COVID-19 pandemic already taught families one enduring lesson: resilience knows no age.

"The safety and wellbeing of our children being paramount, it's very heartening to see how teachers and students have so impressively got back on track after that initial shock," she said.

She recalled a moment during an online class when the sound of an interception interrupted the lesson. Dhruv instinctively made his way to the safe area — the corridor — and sat on the floor, eyes fixed on his tablet.

"His teacher immediately took charge, instructing the class to take a deep breath, stay calm and focus on the moment. I watched him follow her instructions. That incident taught me that our children are in safe hands, where their physical and mental wellbeing is truly prioritised whether they are in classrooms or at home."

She added: "It's only by leaning in — be it with friends, teachers or family — that we can come through this with our spirits intact. I'm deeply grateful to the teachers who are doing an excellent job managing online classes while handling their own families on the side."

Teachers under the spotlight

Ikram Mohammed sees the current situation from two angles: as a parent and as someone who has been closely observing how educators are managing virtual classrooms.

He begins by acknowledging the quiet pillar holding it all together at home: his wife, Roohina Ikram, a teacher and homemaker whose support has been invaluable in keeping the household running and their children on track with their studies.

"We fully understand the effort teachers and lecturers are putting in to conduct classes effectively during this period. Managing virtual classrooms, engaging students and maintaining the quality of education is not easy, and their dedication is highly commendable," he said.

His daughter Anjum, a second-year degree student, is among those navigating the challenges of remote learning, chief among them, the absence of in-person connection.

"One of the biggest challenges for students during this time is missing their friends and the valuable one-to-one interaction with their faculty members. Despite this, students are adapting well and continuing their learning," Ikram said.

His younger children, Arhaam and Alizah, who also attended online classes in the initial days and are currently on their year-end break, will be beginning their new academic year entirely online from April 6.

Blessing for families abroad

For Balagopal G, whose daughter Aditi is a Grade 12 IB student at an international school in Dubai, the extension has been particularly welcome. His family travelled to India for the spring break and has extended their stay, reassured that Aditi can continue attending her classes from there without falling behind.

"It has been a blessing at this time. The school understands our concerns and the learning needs of students," he said.

"Aditi has been attending classes every day, and even when she has missed one, the school has been very approachable. They have a dedicated team to address students' concerns, which I really appreciate."

His one worry is only about the IB board exams getting cancelled. But he acknowledges that some things are simply beyond anyone's control. "These are unprecedented times," he said.

Wellbeing takes centre stage

Meanwhile, schools are placing an increasing focus on student wellbeing alongside academics as remote learning continues.

Fatima Martin, Principal and CEO of GEMS New Millennium School, said the extension has not altered the school's core academic or operational processes — only how they are delivered.

"Teaching, learning, assessments, routines and student support systems continue as planned, ensuring continuity and familiarity for students, staff and parents. This consistency is critical in maintaining psychological safety and a sense of stability during uncertain times," she said.

All scheduled events on the school calendar, including morning assemblies, student leadership induction ceremonies and other key engagements, go ahead virtually, ensuring that student voice and community connection remain central to school life.

"Teachers are well equipped and trained to facilitate class resets during live lessons, supporting students calmly and sensitively if external disruptions or loud sounds occur, so learning can continue in a safe, supportive and reassuring environment," Martin added.