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ABU DHABI / WAM
Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) and Khalifa University of Science and Technology have collaborated to shape future-ready STEM leaders by elevating the skills and knowledge of teachers and 11th-grade students in Abu Dhabi’s Charter Schools.
The dual-focused programme will enhance STEM teaching capacities while facilitating students’ transition from high school to university, preparing them for academic excellence.
The comprehensive one-year programme will see teachers across charter schools in the emirate undergo in-depth training provided by a world-class faculty from Khalifa University. The programme includes peer mentorship, which involves Khalifa University faculty and students providing personalised support and guidance to charter school students.
Dr. Ahmed Sultan Alshoaibi, Acting Executive Director of the Higher Education Sector at ADEK, said, “Joining forces with Khalifa University, we reaffirm our commitment to establish robust, purpose-driven partnerships that bridge the gap between academia and industry. Through this initiative, our goal is to provide students with upskilling opportunities at any stage of their academic journey, ensuring they are equipped to join top higher education institutions. Our collaborative programme sets the stage for success in these pivotal disciplines, nurturing the foundational assets of Abu Dhabi’s human-knowledge capital.”
Teachers undergoing the one-year specialised training will gain insights into student’s proficiency levels, allowing them to effectively tailor learning environments according to each student’s level. They will also learn how to fully integrate and adapt new teaching methodologies using technology and various digital platforms.
The peer mentorship model is designed to foster a supportive environment that encourages curiosity, a sense of belonging and enhanced learning experiences, all while drawing inspiration from accomplished role models in the STEM field. Eligible students will be selected based on their academic performance in mathematics, as evidenced by MAP Growth study results and teachers’ recommendations.
Professor John O’Reilly, President at Khalifa University, said, “We are delighted to collaborate with ADEK on this transformative programme to elevate STEM education across Charter Schools in Abu Dhabi. Aligning with the directives of the UAE’s wise leadership to boost human capital development, we aim to equip the next generation of Emirati leaders with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in STEM fields through world-class training for teachers and personalised mentorship to students. Alongside facilitating a seamless transition from high school to university, we aim to create a lasting impact, inspiring a lifelong interest in mathematics and the sciences among participants, preparing students for the academic excellence we foster at Khalifa University.”
The programme started at Al Ghad School – Charter Schools as an inaugural phase to enhance problem-solving skills and empower students to apply mathematical concepts in real-life situations adeptly. Ultimately, it will help them boost EmSAT math scores, master test-taking strategies through the ALEKS online assessment platform, strengthen academic skills, cultivate personal growth, develop communication and teamwork abilities, and foster interest in mathematics by introducing the inaugural Musabaqat math competition for high school students.
With a one-year timeline, the pilot programme will utilise diverse teaching methodologies, catering to the diverse learning needs of participating students by combining a rigorous mathematics curriculum with hands-on exercises, as well as leveraging innovative tools and techniques, including ALEKS and peer mentoring.
Following the pilot phase, the programme will be implemented across all Abu Dhabi Charter Schools at a later stage.