Dubai: The UAE will focus on enhancing its smart learning and services initiatives to achieve the UAE’s 2021 vision, said Hussain Ebrahim Al Hammadi, Minister of Education, at the Global Educational Supplies & Solutions (GESS) exhibition and Global Education Forum, which began on Tuesday.
In his keynote speech, Al Hammadi said the ministry plans on achieving the UAE’s 2021 plan by using the most recent advances in technology, and partnering with various stakeholders to improve and develop education as well as achieve high-quality learning to meet its long-term development goals.
“We cannot get rid of the old teaching and learning methods if we don’t adopt what is new and innovative. We are trying our best to make the required changes, use technology and modern technology in the education system,” he said.
Al Hammadi also said the development of the education system is no more a luxury. It has become mandatory, the grounds for building nations and for sustainable development.
Shaikha Budoor Al Qasimi, Founder and CEO of Kalimat Group, stressed the role of teachers in a student’s life.
“The teacher’s role is vital in shaping a student’s personality and character. We cannot talk about the development of education without talking about teachers and the development of their skills,” she said.
Shaikha Budoor said education should promote innovation and not rote learning.
“We should make learning fun for students, it should not be about exams and assignments only,” she said.
In her keynote speech, Anna Paolini, director of the Unesco regional office and representative in the GCC, said Arab countries should focus on providing access to all.
“Arab countries need to focus on key priority areas such as equitable and inclusive access to education for all, quality and relevant education and teachers, as well as education for sustainable development,” she said.
A total of 100 highly-ranked education experts and specialists are taking part in the event, which features 200 sessions and 20 workshops.
Some 500 companies are exhibiting the latest education supplies and solutions in education at the event, which ends on Thursday.
