Humaid Mohammed Obaid Al Qattami, Minister of Education, on Saturday, called on educators, administrators, students and their guardians to work diligently and faithfully so as to elevate the learning process and deliver the State’s strategic objectives for education.

Al Qattami made this statement as nearly 727,918 students of 1,276 public and private schools will return to classrooms today for the 2012-2013 academic year. Some 785 government schools will welcome 269,412 students while 458,508 students will join 491 private schools.

A total of 29,332 teachers, technicians and administrators had already reported to work last Sunday.

“While acting to implement directives of the country’s leadership, the Ministry of Education has carried out a series pioneering initiatives and programmes to improve performance in government schools so as to set an educational model that is capable of addressing present challenges and unlocking creative potentials of both educators and learners,” the minister said.

Meanwhile, the Abu Dhabi Education Council on Saturday called for greater parents-schools communication as students head back to school after the annual summer leave. Dr Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili, Director-General of the Abu Dhabi Education Council (Adec) advised parents to pay extra attention to their wards’ studies and increase the level of communication with schools.

“It is important for parents and schools to establish a communication link. The involvement of a parent is extremely important for a child’s educational journey. We, here in the Abu Dhabi Education Council encourage parents to participate in their children’s preparation plans during their return to school,” said Al Khaili.

He further added buying new books, uniform, new shoes, new school supplies and stationery for children was not only psychologically rewarding for the child but will also help them look forward to returning to school.

“Regardless of age and gender, parents and teachers are encouraged to partner with one another to create a smooth and positive experience for students,” Al Khaili added. He further urged parents to familiarise themselves with the different subjects being taught to their children, and become aware of any changes in the school curriculum, as well as familiarise themselves with their children’s teacher.

“The transition from flexible hours and a relaxing holiday to a classroom environment and routine requires discipline and dedication, which parents can help create through presenting a well-organised schedule that encourages early bedtime hours, healthy nutrition and supportive messages about returning to school and meeting new students and teachers,” Al Khaili said.

To further improve the education system of the emirate, the Adec, throughout the summer break, was involved in renovating all its public school premises to help facilitate all the necessary teaching tools required for both teachers and students, with consideration to children with special needs.

“Arabic and expatriate English Medium teachers, cluster managers, educational advisors and heads of faculty, whether newly recruited or returning staff, were all provided orientation and professional development sessions one week prior to the new academic year.

They are all familiar with Adec’s mission, the schools’ new curriculum, assessment techniques and student behavior procedures,” explained Dr Al Khaili. In the meantime, he added, parents are advised to take time to talk with and listen to their child about the upcoming school year.

This is one of the best ways parents can help their child prepare for and transition to school life.

nissar@khaleejtimes.com 
 (with inputs from Wam)