Within the framework of cooperation between the ministries of culture and education, the launch of the National Cultural Framework for educational institutions in the United Arab Emirates was announced. This framework includes a number of policies, standards, and school curricula designed for the integration of cultural events, which should be implemented in schools and which align with academic programs.
The main aim of this framework is to aid and promote the national identity of the Emirates, to solidify cultural values and positive traits among students, as well as their preservation. The program encompasses students of all age categories, starting from kindergarten and ending with students in the third level of education, in both public and private schools.
The first stage of the program was launched in August 2023 and continues until January 2024. It involved not only public schools but also private schools, engaging more than 1300 teachers and about 2000 students, as well as attracting 107 cultural institutions to the program.
Mubarak Al-Nahyai, the Deputy Minister of Culture, emphasized: "We aim to strengthen the Emirati cultural identity in the formation of a new generation, enhancing their belonging to the homeland, to leadership and the community, as recognizing cultural heritage contributes to shaping a generation that preserves its identity and leads the country to the future, relying on knowledge, critical thinking, and creativity."
He explained that the cultural framework aims to deepen the connection between students and their national identity, stimulate their active participation in society, strengthen relationships between generations, and enhance cooperation between cultural and educational institutions.
Mohammed Al-Kasem, the Deputy Minister of Education, noted that the National Cultural Framework in schools presents a significant contribution to strengthening the Emirati national identity among students through thoughtfully organized events, organized by students and educational staff.
The ministry will work on the integration of diverse activities and programs from this framework, starting with kindergarten and extending to students at the third level of education, providing a broad educational process and offering innovative tools for educational institutions in the context of accessible school extracurricular activities.
