In this interview, Her Excellency Dr. Amna AlDahak AlShamsi, assistant undersecretary, care & capacities building sector, UAE Ministry of Education, discusses how the ministry is working proactively to achieve an ecologically-friendly education.
She shares her views on how collaboration is key to ensuring sustainable principles and practices are carefully integrated into the curriculum. According to Dr. AlShamsi, innovation, partnerships and practical implementations are critical components of transforming the education ecosystem into a sustainable and effective model for the world to emulate.
What are the UAE Ministry of Education’s goals for sustainable education?
The UAE Ministry of Education has set various goals for sustainable education to ensure a progressive and environmentally conscious educational system. One of the primary goals is to integrate sustainability principles into the curriculum at all educational cycles and into different subjects.
Another goal is to promote sustainable practices within educational institutions, and this includes building eco-friendly schools. Moreover, the Ministry aims to create a culture of sustainability within schools and universities, where students and staff actively participate in eco-friendly initiatives and become ambassadors for sustainable living.
Furthermore, the Ministry of Education seeks to foster partnerships with relevant stakeholders, including government bodies, industry experts, and non-profit organizations, to develop and implement sustainable education programs.
Additionally, the Ministry aims to continuously monitor and evaluate the progress of sustainable education initiatives through conducting research, collecting data, and analyzing the impact of these initiatives on students, teachers, and the environment.
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How is the ministry working to incorporate sustainable development principles into the UAE’s education system?
We are actively working towards that. An essential initiative is the integration of an environmental sustainability framework into the curriculum, addressing energy, biosphere, climate change, and innovation. Through this framework, students are exposed to various concepts related to sustainable development, such as renewable energy sources, biodiversity conservation and strategies to mitigate the repercussions of climate change. They are encouraged to think critically about these issues and explore cutting-edge solutions that can contribute to a more sustainable society.
Furthermore, the Ministry is actively collaborating with educational institutions, experts, and stakeholders to ensure the effective implementation of the environmental sustainability framework. This involves providing professional development opportunities for teachers, creating resources and materials that align with the curriculum, and regularly evaluating and updating the framework to reflect the latest developments in sustainable development.
At the UAE Ministry of Education, we are making commendable efforts to prepare students to become active contributors to a sustainable and prosperous future for the UAE.
As COP28 approaches, what role does the UAE Ministry of Education envision playing in raising awareness about climate change and sustainable practices?
The UAE Ministry of Education envisions playing a significant role in that.
One of our key initiatives is the establishment of the first-ever education pavilion, which will showcase best practices and highlight the crucial role of education in promoting awareness about climate change. This pavilion will support global efforts in climate action by bringing countries and leaders together to exchange knowledge and ideas.
Additionally, the Ministry aims to foster an open-source platform that provides bilingual resources, ensuring accessibility for all. Our aim is to create a legacy commitment to green education partnerships, encouraging collaboration with various stakeholders to integrate sustainable practices into the education system.
What are some of the challenges facing the implementation of green education in the UAE?
The implementation of green education in the UAE is faced with several challenges. One of the main challenges is that many individuals still prioritize traditional education over green education, resulting in a lack of interest and involvement in sustainable practices.
Another challenge is the limited availability of resources and infrastructure to support green education initiatives, which requires significant financial investment and collaboration with various stakeholders.
Additionally, schools and educational institutions need to be more aware of sustainable practices on their campuses, and as such, the UAE Ministry of Education is working towards integrating environmental sustainability into the curriculum at all levels of education. This is by incorporating subjects such as environmental science, climate change, and sustainable development.
Moreover, we are keen to actively engage with businesses and organizations that promote sustainable practices. Partnerships can be formed to provide funding, resources, and expertise to support the implementation of green education initiatives. Such collaborations can also facilitate internships and training programs for students, allowing them to gain practical experience in the field of environmental sustainability.
These initiatives will enable the Ministry of Education to create a holistic approach to green education, ensuring a sustainable future for the UAE.
How do you envision the future of sustainable education in the UAE, and what message would you like to convey to educators, students, and the general public about their role in contributing to a more sustainable society?
The future of sustainable education in the UAE is a promising one, with a strong emphasis on nurturing environmentally conscious individuals who contribute to a more sustainable society.
Educators, students, and the public all play vital roles in this vision. I’d like to convey to educators the influence they wield in molding young minds. By incorporating sustainability into their teaching methodologies and curriculum, they can inspire students to become environmentally responsible individuals and find innovative solutions to environmental challenges.
To students, I would like to emphasize the importance of their active involvement in building a sustainable future. By embracing eco-friendly practices in their daily lives, they can contribute significantly to a greener society. I also encourage them to engage in environmental initiatives, join clubs, and participate in community projects that promote sustainability.
To the general public, I would like to highlight the collective responsibility we all share in creating a sustainable society. By making conscious choices, including supporting local businesses that prioritize sustainability, reducing our carbon footprint, and advocating for environmentally friendly policies, we can collectively make a significant impact.
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