UAE schools on hiring spree, Abu Dhabi goes tough on errant motorists, Arsenal trounces Man City and more, Gulf News Editors comment on August 7 trending news

UAE SCHOOLS GO ON HIRING SPREE AHEAD OF NEW ACADEMIC YEAR: UAE schools are actively recruiting ahead of the upcoming academic year, going on a hiring spree to fill positions of teachers and administrators as the country’s growing expatriate population fuels demand for quality education. According to Alpen Capital’s latest education industry report, the total number of students in the GCC is expected to reach 14.2 million by 2027, an addition of 11.7 million from the current level. During the forecast period, K-12 enrolments in the region are expected to grow at a CAGR of 1.5 per cent to reach 11.7 million by 2027. To meet the needs of the growing population, major UAE school groups, including GEMS Education, Taaleem and Nord Anglia Education, have completed several recruitment drives over the past year, with many more in the pipeline. Moreover, the pay scales for skilled educators have improved by 30 to 40 per cent compared to 2018-2019 salaries, making it a great time to work in the education sector. (By Dhanusha Gokulan, Chief Reporter)

CIVIC RESPONSIBILITY: Authorities in Abu Dhabi have taken a firm stance against motorists caught littering from their vehicles while driving. Those found guilty of this offence will be subject to a Dh1,000 fine and will receive 6 black points on their driving records. The authorities have made it clear that such irresponsible behaviour not only violates the law but also poses a significant threat to the health, safety, and environment of the city. As part of the government’s ongoing efforts to beautify the streets and enhance green areas, it is essential for every member of the community to adhere to regulations and embrace a strong sense of civic responsibility. By doing so, every person makes a positive contribution to creating a clean and appealing community that brings advantages to citizens, residents and visitors. (By Jay Hilotin, Senior Assistant Editor)

ARSENAL END CITY'S SILVERWARE STREAK: Manchester City again failed to win The Community Shield after Arsenal scored in the penalty shootout to clinch the title on Sunday. The loss meant City's run of defeats in Community Shield matches continued, following losses to Liverpool last season and Leicester City in 2021. For Arsenal take home their first trophy since beating Liverpool on penalties in the Community Shield three years ago. It also raises hopes that they can close the gap on City after losing out in the title race last season. Importantly, this was their first win over Pep Guardiola’s side in eight attempts, which should give them a whole lot of confidence going into the new season. (By Jai Prasad Rai, Assistant Editor)

'BARBIE' BOX OFFICE COLLECTIONS MARKS A WATERSHED: The box office collections of 'Barbie', based on the childhood doll, directed by Greta Gerwig and boasting of a stellar cast including Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, crossed a significant milestone. The movie has collected around $1 billion in three weeks at the global box office, and is important in a myriad ways. In terms of collections, it broke a record for women directors, previously held by Patty Jenkins, who directed 'Wonder Woman'. A movie made by a Scorsese or a Spielberg setting records is fine, but a truly inclusive film industry needs a lot more Greta Gerwigs, whose movies aren't pigeonholed into specific categories. (By Rajagopalan Venkataraman, Assistant Editor-features)