Aiming to increase the recruitment of more graduates in teaching positions to meet the growing Emiratisation targets is a key focus for many educational institutions. One prominent school group mentioned that while Emiratis are predominantly employed in administrative and non-teaching roles, there is a concerted effort to have more Emirati educators leading classes.
In Sharjah, particularly in the field of Arabic studies, a significant number of Emiratis have been appointed to teach the subject. The Sharjah Private Education Authority reported that 85 Emirati teachers have been integrated into the private education sector since 2019, with a majority specializing in Arabic, Islamic studies, and social studies.
The authority emphasized its commitment to training Emiratis for teaching roles and supporting both undergraduate and graduate students in pursuing education as a profession. Notably, recent statistics revealed a record high, indicating that private companies with 50 or more employees are required to ensure that 6% of their workforce comprises Emiratis by the end of the current year.
The UAE’s Nafis program, launched in September 2021, aims to have 10% of all private sector jobs filled by citizens by the end of 2026, aligning with the broader Emiratisation initiative. However, there is currently a disparity between the demand for qualified Emirati teachers and the available supply of candidates in the region.
Both John Mayes, the chief people officer at Gems Education, and Kirti Badlani, the group human resources manager at Ambassador Schools, acknowledged the initial challenges of Emiratisation but expressed optimism about meeting the targets. Badlani highlighted the importance of adhering to the criteria set by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority in Dubai when hiring for teaching positions, particularly in Arabic and IT roles.
In their graduate search efforts, Ambassador Schools are actively seeking Emirati candidates, including fresh graduates, to teach Arabic. They are leveraging the Nafis program for recruitment and are open to selecting newly graduated teachers from universities.
The Emiratisation goals set for private companies indicate a gradual increase in the percentage of Emirati staff members, with the ultimate aim of reaching a 10% target by the end of 2026. Educational institutions like Delhi Private School Dubai are committed to meeting these targets, viewing the Emiratisation journey as a positive and necessary endeavor.
Overall, the focus on Emiratisation in the education sector is stronger than ever, with a concerted effort to align with government regulations and standards. The recruitment of Emirati graduates for teaching roles remains a priority, supported by initiatives such as open days, the Nafis platform, and university partnerships. Emirati educators like Sharifa Ali Sulaiman, who works as a learning support assistant at Ambassador International Academy in Dubai, exemplify the dedication and passion driving Emiratis to pursue careers in education, ultimately benefiting both the individuals and the community at large.