Abu Dhabi’s educational landscape is witnessing a positive shift as the results of the Phase 1 National Identity Mark assessment have been unveiled by the emirate’s education regulator. The Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (Adek) introduced the pioneering National Identity Mark in May this year, aiming to provide parents with comprehensive insights into the quality of national identity programs and related activities offered by private schools across the emirate.
Out of the 87 private schools assessed in the first phase, a notable 29 have achieved either an ‘outstanding’ or ‘good’ rating. The assessment focused on schools with the highest number of Emirati students, marking a significant step in promoting and sustaining the UAE’s cultural heritage within the education system.
The assessment framework comprised three principal domains, each consisting of three relevant dimensions. The domains encompassed ‘culture,’ emphasizing history, heritage, and Arabic language; ‘values,’ encompassing virtues such as respect, compassion, and global understanding; and ‘citizenship,’ which covered concepts like belonging, volunteering, and conservation.
The aim of the National Identity Mark is to deepen Emirati students’ profound understanding of the UAE’s traditions, customs, and values. By doing so, the initiative empowers students with a strong foundation rooted in their cultural heritage, enabling them to navigate the diverse global landscape while staying connected to their own identity.
The evaluation outcomes highlighted eight schools as ‘outstanding’ and 21 schools as ‘good.’ Notable among the ‘outstanding’ schools were the British International School in Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayed Academy for Girls, Sheikh Zayed Academy for Boys, Emirates National Schools in MBZ City, Al Ittihad National Private School in Khalifa City, Al Ittihad National Private School in Shakhbout City, Emirates National Schools Branch 3, and Adnoc Schools in Sas Al Nakhl.
While these outstanding results underscore the commitment of certain schools to fostering national identity programs, Adek’s holistic approach is further evidenced by the ‘acceptable’ and ‘weak’ ratings assigned to other institutions, prompting them to focus on enhancing their offerings.
The National Identity Mark evaluations operate independently from Adek’s annual Irtiqa’a Inspection, which evaluates the performance standards of private schools in the emirate, offering recommendations for continuous improvement. This innovative approach ensures a multi-faceted assessment, encompassing academic quality and cultural engagement.
Moving forward, the second phase of evaluations is set to commence in the academic year 2023-24. This phase will extend its coverage to additional private schools, bolstering the impact of the National Identity Mark initiative. Schools that do not have a substantial number of Emirati students are encouraged to integrate national identity programs and activities, fostering a connection to the country’s rich heritage and traditions.
As Abu Dhabi advances in its pursuit of holistic education, the National Identity Mark emerges as a pivotal tool in nurturing a deep-rooted understanding of the UAE’s heritage among students. The collaborative efforts of educators, parents, and policy-makers reflect a commitment to preserving and celebrating the nation’s cultural identity within the realms of education.
