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Emirati teachers on decline in Sharjah

Emirati teachers account for just four per cent of the total number of teachers in general education in Sharjah, showing a decline of 16 per cent over the last four years, according to a recent study.

The findings highlight the reluctance of Emiratis to become teachers and has spurred the author of the study to tackle the challenge head on, in a bid to increase the flailing numbers.

Authored by head of training and development at Sharjah Educational Zone Amna Mohammed Al Rashid, the study titled “Psychological Trends of UAE Educator Towards Teaching” showed that of the four per cent, two per cent worked in secondary schools, while non-national teachers dominate the scene.

The study found that the number of Emirati principals and educational staff had been on the decline over the last four years, falling 16 per cent in 2011-12 over 2008-09 numbers, but the figure remained stable in 2009-10 to 2011-12.

In relation to national teachers, their number sank 36 per cent in 2009-10, 16 per cent in 2010-11 and nine per cent in 2011-12 with the study noting that “the trend confirmed the reluctance of Emiratis to join the teaching profession”.

With the findings highlighting a lack of Emirati educators in the country, the study called on the Ministry of Education to address the challenge by conducting regular assessments of the learning reality, paying proper attention to the learning process itself and overhauling the civil service legislations to attract more nationals into the profession. Al Rashid said she had received a letter of appreciation from His Highness Dr Shaikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, for the field study.

“The study is of paramount significance as it addresses a national concern that reoccupies educators: the reluctance of Emiratis to become teachers,” Sharjah Educational Zone Director Saeed Al Kaabi said. —