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'It feels like we're partners of Adec now'

Abu Dhabi - Abu Dhabi Education Council initiates online survey to elicit suggestions on type of education

The online survey initiated by the Abu Dhabi Education Council (Adec) since June 26 has witnessed huge enthusiasm from stakeholders including school leaders, teachers, administrative staff, parents and students from both public and private schools, Adec employees, faculty and students from higher education institutes, as well as public and private organisations. The aim is to elicit
suggestions and concerns regarding the type of education offered across the emirate of Abu Dhabi..
"The survey launched by Dr Ali Al Nuaimi, director-general of Adec witnessed high participation, especially from students and parents," he said.
On Monday, Adec got in touch with participants, asking them what they think of the questions tailored for each participant group.
"Gathering different suggestions from students and parents is very important as it provides decision makers with relevant data to be analysed to develop strategies that are in the best interest of students," said Dr. Arif Sultan Al Hammadi, executive vice-president of Khalifa University.
Grade 10 public school student, Sara Al Ameri, has filled out Adec-related surveys prior to this one, but she felt this particular one was different.
"I like the fact that Dr Nuaimi is addressing us personally, and is interested in hearing our suggestions; it makes us feel like we're Adec's partners now and gives us responsibility to express what's in the best interest of our education system."
Mariam Eyad, a 15-year-old public school student, hopes that Adec will send similar surveys more frequently.
"We have a lot of suggestions and great ideas that we can offer Adec. We would love to enhance the communication between us," she said.
"Education has improved and we feel there's way more room for further improvement."
A parent of three children, one in university and two in Cycle 3 public schools, Naeema Farouq Al Wakeel has never filled out an education related survey before. And she is happy to be given the chance to express her opinion freely for the first time.
"What's assuring about the survey is that you don't need to mention your name or your child's name. You can simply voice your concerns and areas that you feel require particular attention under anonymity and without being judged," said Naeema.
Sheikha Ali Al Tunisie, a parent and a Digital Innovation Technology teacher liked how the survey did not focus on a particular sector or individual specialisation.
"We had the choice to speak about different topics and areas that affect a school, while voicing our own constructive criticism that we know is in the best interest of our children," she stressed.
"It's also great that our children are given the chance to become part of what I see as a major revamp approach in the education system. I hope to see more of these short, brief, yet articulate surveys".
Ahmed Al Khayyat Al Hammadi, project manager at Adec, explained that the idea behind the survey was to allow stakeholders to voice their ideas and suggestions, while assisting Adec in re-visiting some of its decisions and strategy plan.
"A huge part of Adec's mission is to involve its teachers and school leaders in its strategy plan. Now we are including more stakeholders, who we are confident will offer fresh new ideas that will assist us in re-prioritizing projects, while examining different challenges among different people," he said.
The online survey will be closed on June 30 and it is available on http://bit.ly/outreach-surveys-en.
silvia@khaleejtimes.com