More than 108 parents attended the first gathering hosted as part of the Mohammed bin Rashid Distinguished Students Programme at the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA). The programme has helped 134 Emirati families by providing 236 scholarships in 13 private schools of Dubai with ‘Good’ or better rating.
Abdulla Mohammed Al Basti, Secretary General of Dubai Executive Council, said, “The programme highlights the keenness of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, in promoting excellence in every sector. Emirati students are a key pillar of our nation’s future and the MBR Distinguished Students Programme contributes in our effort to develop human capital and create an elite Emirati youth that shapes the UAE’s future.”
He also confirmed the keenness of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council, in reviewing the performance of government teams working towards the success of this important programme.
During the event, his remarks were presented by Aisha Miran, Assistant Secretary General for Strategy Management and Governance Sector at The Executive Council of Dubai.
She also highlighted the continued support of the Executive Council in developing human capital and contributing towards achievement of strategic goals outlined in Dubai 2021.
Dr Abdulla Al Karam, Director General of KHDA, encouraged parents to continue supporting the programme and help provide children with high-quality education. He said, “Students who are part of this programme are our ambassadors and their achievements will encourage other Emirati families to apply for this programme in the future.”
Parents also shared their views and experiences and presented ideas and suggestions to enhance the programme.
Hesham Al Qaizi, CEO of Knowledge Fund said, “The active participation of students and parents in this programme contributes to its success. Through our partnership with government entities and education providers, we will continue to invest in human minds and create a better future for the UAE."
Fatma Al Marri, CEO - KHDA stressed the importance of parents' participation in their children's educational journey, stressing that their support will help create future leaders.
She said, “By creating opportunities for Emirati students to access high quality education, we are enhancing the competitiveness of our students both regionally and internationally."
Ros Marshall, Chief Executive Officer, Taaleem said, “We are proud to be associated with this inspirational and transformational initiative. The first MBRDSP students have settled remarkably well into their new schools and are already playing an active part in all aspects of school life. We are also delighted with the strong support and positive feedback we have had from parents of scholarship students; forging a strong partnership with them is one of our first priorities.”
Dino Varkey, Chief Executive Officer, GEMS Education said, “We are a proud partner of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Distinguished Students Programme – a programme that reflects the bold vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. GEMS Education, working in partnership with the KHDA, has pledged its support to provide opportunities for outstanding Emirati students and help to prepare a future generation of Emirati leaders. GEMS Education’s schools in Dubai have welcomed over 120 outstanding Emirati students to 10 of our schools this year”.
The event was attended by Aisha Miran, Assistant Secretary General for Strategy Management and Governance Sector at The Executive Council of Dubai, Hesham Al Qaizi, CEO of Knowledge Fund, Fatma Al Marri, CEO - Knowledge and Human Development Authority in Dubai, and representatives of the GEMS Education and Taaleem.
Earlier during the event, parents and officials kicked off the event with a 3 kilometre walk at KHDA’s indoor running track for men and a 20 minute yoga activity for women as part of an activity hosted to the Dubai Fitness Challenge. The MBR Distinguished Students Programme is the first of its kind in the UAE and aims to prepare an Emirati generation by combining innovative, smart and positive educational practices to become a generation equipped with the skills.