Emirati Educator Forum highlights growing role of national talent in Dubai's private education sector

Dubai: Emirati educators have highlighted Dubai's commitment to empowering national talent and expanding opportunities for Emiratis within the private education sector, underscoring the vital role teachers play in shaping future generations and strengthening national identity. The comments were made during the Emirati Educator Forum, organised by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), which brought together around 100 Emirati teachers from private schools and early childhood centres across Dubai. The forum forms part of the Emirati Educator Strategy, approved by The Executive Council of Dubai, which aims to increase the number of Emirati teachers working in the emirate's private education sector to 3,000 by 2033. The strategy supports the objectives of the Education 33 Strategy (E33) and seeks to strengthen national identity within private schools while enhancing the quality of Dubai's education ecosystem. Investing in national talent Amina Alkawari, Director of Educator Empowerment at KHDA, said Emirati teachers carry a national responsibility that extends far beyond the classroom. "Emirati teachers carry a national mission, and their impact extends far beyond the classroom to future generations. Empowering them is a national responsibility that reflects the leadership's vision to invest in people, elevate the teaching profession, and embed excellence and sustainability across education," she said. Alkawari noted that supporting teachers is a direct investment in education quality and said KHDA would continue creating pathways that enhance professional growth and enable Emirati educators to make a greater impact across Dubai's education community. She added that the forum serves as a platform for knowledge exchange, professional networking and exploring innovative solutions that contribute to the goals of the Emirati Educator Strategy. Strengthening national identity The event brought together retired Emirati education leaders, current educators and recent graduates, creating opportunities for mentorship and the transfer of knowledge and experience. Participants said the strategy plays an important role in encouraging more Emiratis to enter the teaching profession. Emirati teacher Seham Alhajri described the strategy as a significant national step towards strengthening national identity in private education. "The Emirati Educator Strategy, together with KHDA's efforts to attract Emiratis to work in private schools, represents an important national step towards strengthening national identity and embedding Emirati values among future generations," she said. Alhajri noted that the role of Emirati teachers extends beyond academic instruction to sharing the UAE's culture, values and identity with students. Supporting educational transformation Emirati teacher Wedad bin Turkiya said the strategy reflects Dubai's commitment to enhancing Emirati participation in private education while continuing to develop the broader education sector. She said the Education 33 Strategy represents a comprehensive transformation across all aspects of education and highlighted the unique contribution Emirati educators bring through their understanding of national culture, traditions and heritage. Meanwhile, Shaikha Mohammed, an Arabic language teacher at a private school in Dubai, said the forum provided valuable opportunities to exchange experiences and learn from fellow educators. "The forum allowed us to exchange knowledge and experiences. It reflects the support Dubai provides to teachers from the beginning of their professional journey," she said. Focus on innovation and AI The forum featured a series of interactive workshops focusing on modern Arabic language teaching methods, education management and the use of artificial intelligence in teaching and learning. Participants explored how AI can help reduce administrative workloads, enhance teaching practices and improve educational outcomes. A panel discussion also showcased the professional journeys of three Emirati teachers, highlighting their experiences and contributions to the education sector. Continuing support for Emirati teachers KHDA said it continues to support Emirati educators through initiatives including Teach in Dubai, All Rise, and the Leaders in Education Programme. The programme was launched under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai. It connects Emirati teachers with leading education experts, providing mentorship and personalised development plans aimed at strengthening professional capabilities, improving job satisfaction and increasing the retention of national talent within the education sector. KHDA said these initiatives reinforce the role of Emirati teachers as educators, mentors and role models helping shape future generations while supporting Dubai's ambition to build a wor