Best students in Dubai to get best private education

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid launches the 'Mohammed bin Rashid Distinguished Students Programme' during the Future Dialogue sessions on Dubai Plan 2021 on Tuesday. WAM

Are you a high-achieving Emirati school student in the UAE? If so, the country's leadership is calling on you to step forward and take advantage of what could be one of the most defining moments of your educational journey.
On Tuesday, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President, Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai launched the 'Mohammed Bin Rashid Distinguished Students Programme,' which will provide the best performing Emirati students the opportunity to join the best private schools in Dubai.
After attending the Future Dialogue sessions on the Dubai Plan 2021 (organised by the General Secretariat of the Executive Council of Dubai), Sheikh Mohammed ordered the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) to lay down the required criteria and communication with school parents and students to take full advantage of this new initiative.
"Today, I noticed how the participating students are eager and interested in education," he said, adding that he impressed with their commitment and ability to contribute in building the future and development of the UAE.
"I thought of providing this programme for distinguished students, as with them, we will have strong arms in the future, and with them we complete the progress of the country," he said.
Expressing his "great confidence" in the UAE youth, Sheikh Mohammed said he will only accept the "best education" for Emirati students.
Underlining the efforts of the Ministry of Education, he said its three ministers work tirelessly on developing the education system in the government sector.
According to the KHDA, the total number of outstanding private schools in Dubai is 16, so as more details about the initiative are released, participating schools will be announced.
Speaking to Khaleej Times, 15-year-old Emirati student, Fatima Al Kaabi, championed the initiative. "Sheikh Mohammed always surprises me with such initiatives. But what I love about this one is that it targets school students, not university students."
A pupil at Manor Hall International School, Al Ain, Kaabi said the programme will provide a great opportunity for students and will encourage them to work harder to be recognised.
"To be offered the opportunity to go to one of the best schools in Dubai would be fantastic. Students will really do all they can to showcase their skills now," she said.
Upon being officially launched, the programme will provide students the opportunity to get the best academic guidance and orientation within the school environment, from schools deemed 'good', 'very good' and 'excellent' under the KHDA guidelines.
As well as the KHDA, school operators will also help support the programme.
reporters@khaleejtimes.com