UAE Society - CHAPTER 5

Chapter Five: Educational Development in UAE

The Tools of Cultural Growth in UAE

• Religion: Foundation of cultural values and ethics.

• Education: Critical for societal advancement and literacy.

• Leadership: Influences policy and direction of cultural initiatives.

• Child Education: Essential for nurturing the next generation.

• Media: A channel for information and cultural expression.

• Arts: Reflects cultural heritage and creativity.

The General Concept of Culture

• Definition: Culture acts as a tool for awareness, shaping human behavior and societal interactions.

• Importance: Guides attitudes, customs, and norms in communities.

The Emergence of Cultural Revival in UAE

• Emirates Society: A study of its dynamics reveals a rich cultural tapestry.

• Historical Context: The area was not isolated; there was continuous cultural interaction.

• Ahmad bin Majed: Notable navigator contributing to UAE's maritime heritage.

• The First Newspaper in UAE:

  • Al-Nikhi: Established in 1934 by Musbih bin Oibaid al-Zahiri.

  • Initially focused on health benefits, it expanded to include news related to societal events such as births and deaths.

Factors Leading to the Emergence of Renaissance in UAE

• Economic Boom: Fuelled advancements in cultural projects.

• Cultural Linkages: Connections with Egypt were pivotal in the cultural scene.

• Trade Routes: Regular trips between Dubai and Bombay enhanced cultural exchanges.

• Influential Relationships: Merchants and intellectual reformers significantly impacted cultural development.

Cultural Establishments in UAE

• Ministry of Cultural, Youth and Society Development: Established in 1975.

• National Council for Media: Oversees media regulations and cultural dissemination.

• Emirates News Agency: Central to news reporting and information flow.

• Khour Dubai Cultural Project: Launched in 2008 to promote cultural activities.

• Arabic Poetry House: Supports preservation and promotion of Arabic poetry.

• Zayed Book Award: Started in 2006 to honor literary contributions.

• Book Shows: Events encouraging reading and literary appreciation.

Education in UAE

Traditional Islamic Education (Mutawa')

• Various forms included:

  • Dukhla

  • Al-Khameesia

  • Eidiiyah

  • Nafilah

  • Fitra

  • Akla

  • Jozo'

  • Haq Allah

  • Khitmah

Semi-Formal Education (1903-1953)

• Overview of traditional forms and their significance.

The Beginning of Modern Education (1953-1971)

• Kuwaiti Educational Mission (1953): Established in Sharjah.

• Egyptian Educational Mission (1955-1959): Found in Sharjah and Dubai.

• Qatari Educational Mission (1956): Initiated in Dubai.

• Bahraini Educational Mission (1961): Expanded to UAE.

• Jordanian Educational Mission (1958): Set up in Abu Dhabi.

Private Education in UAE

Objectives of Private Education

• General and Technical Education: Supports curricula expansion.

• Foreign Languages: Enhancing language education.

• Specialized Curricula: Tailors education to diverse needs.

Regulations of Private Education

• Overview of governing rules and policies impacting private institutions.

Reasons for the Increase of Private Education

• Foreign Communities: Growing presence demands educational services.

• Ministry of Education's Policy: Impact on children of Arab communities.

• Perceptions of State Education: Declining confidence among citizens and expats.

Education Stages

• Kindergarten: Early childhood education begins.

• Elementary Stage: Fundamental learning years.

• Secondary Education: Important for advanced learning.

• Vocational/Technical Education: Prepares students for specific careers.

• Higher Education/University Education: Focused on advanced study and research.

Awards for Educational Distinction and Creativity

• Khalifa Educational Award: Recognizes outstanding educational practices.

• Hamdan Bin Rashid Al-Maktoum Award: Honors excellence in education.

• Ras Al-Khaima Award: Promotes creativity and uniqueness in education.