Latest news with #ECAE


Zawya
14-07-2025
- Health
- Zawya
ECAE hosts third edition of the Universities Collaboration Forum
Abu Dhabi – The Emirates College for Advanced Education (ECAE) hosted the third edition of the Universities Collaboration Forum, an initiative by the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority (ECA). The forum brought together 11 leading universities and academic institutions from across the UAE to support dialogue, collaboration, and knowledge exchange aimed at strengthening the Early Childhood Development (ECD) sector in Abu Dhabi. The college showcased its leadership in driving innovation in ECD, presenting research-driven practices that reflect its commitment to integrating theory and practice. Faculty members delivered interactive presentations, including a demonstration of the 'Interactive Play Lab', the 'Conceptual PlayWorld in Action' session, and a panel discussion titled 'Transforming the Early Childhood Workplace', where. The panelists shared key findings from an ECA-funded ECAE research project, which explores ways to improve the ECD work environment and promote game-based learning strategies. These efforts reflect ECAE's broader goal of supporting national capacity building in early childhood education and promoting the role of academic institutions in advancing evidence-based development in the sector. The forum aims to encourage joint initiatives by ECA and universities to support the development of ECA-aligned curricula and create an inclusive, high-quality ECD system in partnership with the higher education sector. It also promotes the use of research and data to inform evidence-based policy, strengthen professional development pathways, and build the skills of the ECD workforce. In her opening remarks, Dr. May Laith Al Taee, Vice Chancellor of ECAE, emphasized the vital role of academic institutions in supporting national efforts to empower and upskill the ECD workforce. 'Early childhood professionals play a critical role in realizing our leadership's vision for creating inclusive and holistic environments that support the healthy and integrated growth of children in our communities,' she noted. 'Through our collaboration with ECA and academic institutions, we work to translate research insights into tangible practices that positively impact children's lives and strengthen the capacity of ECD professionals to lead with excellence and purpose.' Dr. Hessa Al Kaabi, Executive Director of the Special Projects and Partnerships Sector at ECA, said: 'As part of our commitment to advancing the early childhood development sector in Abu Dhabi, we collaborate with partners across sectors, particularly higher education and research institutions, to generate evidence-based studies that enhance the capabilities of ECD professionals and promote child sustainable development. These research findings are critical resources that empower caregivers and educators, enabling data-driven decision-making in shaping early childhood policies and practices.' The forum also featured academic success stories, such as Al Ain University's development of early childhood education offerings and United Arab Emirates University's introduction of an elective course on ECD within its general education program for students across disciplines. ECA also presented a series of projects and initiatives aimed at improving early childhood outcomes in Abu Dhabi. The forum drew strong participation from academic institutions, education experts, researchers, and policymakers. This ongoing collaboration among ECAE, ECA, and academic partners highlights the value of aligning government policy with research to create a sustainable, inclusive, and supportive educational environment for future generations in Abu Dhabi.


Zawya
06-07-2025
- Science
- Zawya
LINC Summit 2025 drives innovation in UAE education sector
Abu Dhabi: The Emirates College for Advanced Education (ECAE) organized the LINC Summit 2025 at the Nabd Al Falah Community hub in Abu Dhabi, reflecting the objectives of the Year of Community. The summit highlighted the role of education in driving community engagement, supporting comprehensive educational transformation powered by innovation and artificial intelligence, and encouraging strategic collaboration among all network members across the UAE. The annual meeting brought together more than 150 educational leaders, teachers, and key stakeholders, offering a programme filled with interactive events and activities. These focused on collaborative inquiry and reflective practice, the development of teachers' leadership and pedagogical skills, the implementation of applied research, AI-enhanced education, integration and inclusivity in both public and private education, and the establishment and expansion of a culture of innovation in schools throughout the country. In her keynote address, Dr May Laith Al Taie, Vice Chancellor at ECAE, said: 'The Innovative Learning Communities Network meeting is part of our ongoing strategic efforts to advance the full educational potential of the community, and to improve and develop the educational system supported by innovation, and educational practices based on artificial intelligence and emerging technologies. This aligns with the vision and aspirations of our leadership for a promising educational future. The meeting also embodies our belief in the importance of cooperation, harmony, and communication at the national level in building a flexible educational network ready for the future of education in the UAE.' Professor David Pedder, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic at ECAE, said: 'Innovation in education truly makes a difference in society and science when strong leadership works hand in hand with the collaboration and research of educators and teachers. When we offer a platform like the LINC Network, we are able to strengthen educational collaboration and drive innovation throughout a wide network of schools. This empowers educators and teachers to create and improve comprehensive, inclusive learning environments that not only inspire students but also help them reach their highest academic goals and become active, contributing members of society.' The meeting featured a speech by His Excellency Sulaiman Al Kaabi, Assistant Undersecretary for the Professional Development Sector at the Ministry of Education, and a keynote presentation by the Chairman of the Innovative Education Communities Network Committee, who reviewed the most significant developments and outcomes from the past year. Committee members also participated in a discussion session with strategic partners in the education sector, addressing the network's ongoing development and improvement efforts. During the Innovation Tour, themed Portraits of Impact, educators and teachers showcased the innovations developed throughout the year, while the Foreseeing the Future workshop highlighted key areas of innovation that will be prioritised going forward. The 2025 summit spotlighted a range of educational innovations, including the expanded integration of AI into teaching and learning through new applications and tools that support personalised and future-ready education. The event also highlighted inclusive education initiatives that promote the integration and support of students with disabilities, as well as research projects and real-world achievements by students. More than 200 educational practitioners received training in incorporating applied research into their teaching practices. A practical approach to teaching mathematics using interactive tools led to significant progress in mastering algebra skills, while transformative approaches to teaching Arabic and Islamic studies emerged through challenge-based and play-based learning. Workshops were also designed to involve more than 30 parents in using artificial intelligence at home, strengthening collaboration between families and schools, and reflecting ECAE's commitment to supporting the Year of Community initiative. The summit provided opportunities for communication and the exchange of experiences, enabling participants to learn together. The event concluded with recommendations from speakers and participants, which shaped the outcomes of the meeting and embodied a shared commitment to advancing education in the UAE. Membership in the LINC network saw a 68 per cent increase in schools and a 58 per cent rise in educators and teachers compared to last year. Four Himam Centres for Inclusive Education Services joined the network, underscoring the growing impact and significance of the initiative in both the public and private education sectors. The LINC Network, a collaborative platform established by the Ministry of Education, is committed to improving educational outcomes by supporting and harnessing local educational innovations in participating schools. Through these communities, teachers receive support to enhance inclusive teaching and learning practices, improve student engagement, integrate AI into lessons, and develop strategies for comprehensive school improvement. ECAE continues to prepare for the future of education in the UAE, inspiring educators to lead change, promoting meaningful collaboration, and equipping the next generation of learners.


Al Etihad
06-07-2025
- Science
- Al Etihad
Abu Dhabi: LINC Summit 2025 drives innovation in UAE education sector
6 July 2025 14:06 ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)The Emirates College for Advanced Education (ECAE) organised the LINC Summit 2025 at the Nabd Al Falah Community hub in Abu Dhabi, reflecting the objectives of the Year of summit highlighted the role of education in driving community engagement, supporting comprehensive educational transformation powered by innovation and artificial intelligence, and encouraging strategic collaboration among all network members across the annual meeting brought together more than 150 educational leaders, teachers, and key stakeholders, offering a programme filled with interactive events and activities. These focused on collaborative inquiry and reflective practice, the development of teachers' leadership and pedagogical skills, the implementation of applied research, AI-enhanced education, integration and inclusivity in both public and private education, and the establishment and expansion of a culture of innovation in schools throughout the her keynote address, Dr May Laith Al Taie, Vice Chancellor at ECAE, said: 'The Innovative Learning Communities Network meeting is part of our ongoing strategic efforts to advance the full educational potential of the community, and to improve and develop the educational system supported by innovation, and educational practices based on artificial intelligence and emerging technologies. "This aligns with the vision and aspirations of our leadership for a promising educational future. The meeting also embodies our belief in the importance of cooperation, harmony, and communication at the national level in building a flexible educational network ready for the future of education in the UAE.'Professor David Pedder, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic at ECAE, said: 'Innovation in education truly makes a difference in society and science when strong leadership works hand in hand with the collaboration and research of educators and teachers. When we offer a platform like the LINC Network, we are able to strengthen educational collaboration and drive innovation throughout a wide network of schools. This empowers educators and teachers to create and improve comprehensive, inclusive learning environments that not only inspire students but also help them reach their highest academic goals and become active, contributing members of society.'The meeting featured a speech by His Excellency Sulaiman Al Kaabi, Assistant Undersecretary for the Professional Development Sector at the Ministry of Education, and a keynote presentation by the Chairman of the Innovative Education Communities Network Committee, who reviewed the most significant developments and outcomes from the past year. Committee members also participated in a discussion session with strategic partners in the education sector, addressing the network's ongoing development and improvement efforts. During the Innovation Tour, themed Portraits of Impact, educators and teachers showcased the innovations developed throughout the year, while the Foreseeing the Future workshop highlighted key areas of innovation that will be prioritised going 2025 summit spotlighted a range of educational innovations, including the expanded integration of AI into teaching and learning through new applications and tools that support personalised and future-ready education. The event also highlighted inclusive education initiatives that promote the integration and support of students with disabilities, as well as research projects and real-world achievements by students. More than 200 educational practitioners received training in incorporating applied research into their teaching practices.A practical approach to teaching mathematics using interactive tools led to significant progress in mastering algebra skills, while transformative approaches to teaching Arabic and Islamic studies emerged through challenge-based and play-based learning. Workshops were also designed to involve more than 30 parents in using artificial intelligence at home, strengthening collaboration between families and schools, and reflecting ECAE's commitment to supporting the Year of Community summit provided opportunities for communication and the exchange of experiences, enabling participants to learn together. The event concluded with recommendations from speakers and participants, which shaped the outcomes of the meeting and embodied a shared commitment to advancing education in the in the LINC network saw a 68% increase in schools and a 58% rise in educators and teachers compared to last Himam Centres for Inclusive Education Services joined the network, underscoring the growing impact and significance of the initiative in both the public and private education LINC Network, a collaborative platform established by the Ministry of Education, is committed to improving educational outcomes by supporting and harnessing local educational innovations in participating schools. Through these communities, teachers receive support to enhance inclusive teaching and learning practices, improve student engagement, integrate AI into lessons, and develop strategies for comprehensive school improvement. ECAE continues to prepare for the future of education in the UAE, inspiring educators to lead change, promoting meaningful collaboration, and equipping the next generation of learners. Year of Community Continue full coverage


Zawya
25-05-2025
- Politics
- Zawya
Emirates College for Advanced Education and National Institute of Education in Singapore host symposium
Abu Dhabi: The Emirates College for Advanced Education (ECAE), in collaboration with the National Institute of Education (NIE), Singapore, and with the support of the UAE Embassy, held a high-level symposium in Singapore titled Reimagining the Future of Teaching & Learning in the Age of AI: Values-Driven Human Flourishing, highlighting the growing cooperation between the UAE and Singapore in future-focused education. The event brought together senior policymakers, academics, and researchers to explore the transformative potential of artificial intelligence in education. The symposium explored key questions shaping the future of learning, including the evolving role of educators in the AI era and the design of education systems that prioritise student growth, equity, ethics, and professional excellence. In his welcome address, His Excellency Jamal Abdullah Al Suwaidi, UAE's Ambassador to Singapore, highlighted the longstanding relations between the two countries and their cooperation and strategic partnerships across multiple sectors, including education. Reflecting on the UAE's forward-looking approach, His Excellency noted: 'Just a few weeks ago, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, announced that starting next academic year, AI will be a subject in all stages of government schools in our country. This vision underlines our leadership's commitment to future-readiness and the development of human capital.' He pointed out that the UAE's aim is not merely to adopt new tools, but to fundamentally rethink education itself. His Excellency said: 'AI presents us with powerful opportunities to personalise learning, assist teachers and expand access. At the same time, it brings complex questions around ethics, data privacy, and digital wellbeing. These are not challenges one nation can solve alone - they require global collaboration. And that is where the UAE-Singapore partnership shines.' Dr. May Laith Al Taee, Vice Chancellor of ECAE, highlighted in her opening remarks the significance of the symposium in advancing ECAE's mission to serve as a bridge between educational policy, research, and innovation. She said: 'This gathering reflects a shared commitment to shaping education systems that are technologically advanced and deeply human. At ECAE, we believe that global collaboration is essential to creating meaningful, scalable change, and our partnership with NIE is a powerful example of what can be achieved when values and vision align.' A panel discussion brought together leading educators and academics, including Prof. Low Ee Ling, Dean, Academic & Faculty Affairs and President's Chair in Education at NIE; Associate Professor Dr. Seng Chee Tan, Associate Dean, Professional & Leadership Development at NIE; Prof. David Pedder, Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic at ECAE; and Prof. Shaljan Areepattamannil, Director, Office of Research at ECAE. Prof. Low said: 'As AI transforms education, teacher education remains grounded in what truly matters. We stay values-anchored, student-centered, evidence-informed, and future-focused — principles that guide teachers to lead with heart, purpose, and professionalism. While AI can enhance how we teach, it cannot replace the human connection at the core of great teaching. These enduring anchors ensure that, beyond AI, teacher education continues to shape educators who are grounded, well prepared, and ready to thrive in an uncertain future.' Dr. Seng explored how AI is reshaping the very foundations of pedagogy and advocated for learning designs that preserve human insight and creativity. He pointed out how the rise of generative AI is challenging us to rethink the way we teach and learn. He said: 'Using the framework of learning from, with, about, and beyond AI, it emphasises that while AI can reshape education, enduring pedagogical principles must guide our journey, and holistic design considerations should be applied. 'Especially in learning with AI, we must develop approaches that are timeless, rooted in human agency, insight, meaningful interaction, and knowledge creation capacity.' Prof. Pedder discussed the critical threshold where digital tools and AI genuinely enhance learning, while still nurturing the cognitive, emotional, and social growth essential to education. He said: 'The potential of AI to augment cognition, promote dialogue, expand access and equity, and inspire creativity and curiosity is immense,' adding that this perspective is reflected in ECAE's National Competency Framework, developed in collaboration with the UAE's Ministry of Education. 'By embedding AI as a cross-programmatic theme in its academic offerings, ECAE ensures that future educators engage with emerging technologies in an informed and ethical way. 'This strategy prepares educators to create inclusive, learner-centered environments equipped for the challenges of a rapidly evolving educational landscape.' Prof. Areepattamannil explained how natural language and predictive models can track student engagement, achievement, and well-being in real time to support informed decisions on interventions, budgets, and curricula. 'It highlights the importance of equity safeguards like bias audits, privacy, and transparency,' he said, emphasising the need for ongoing impact evaluation that upholds human judgment and inclusive values in education systems. The symposium concluded with a speech by Prof. Woon Chia, Director of NIE, who highlighted the strength of the strategic partnership with the UAE in education. She emphasised how this collaboration supports the global shift towards agile, innovative and AI-driven education systems that are more inclusive and integrated. She also stressed the importance of increased joint efforts in policymaking and strategy development to keep pace with the rapidly evolving educational landscape. The event came on the heels of a strategic agreement between ECAE and NIE last year under the second phase of the ECAE-initiated Strategic Framework for Educational Excellence, aimed at advancing the UAE's educational sector by preparing educators as global leaders grounded in Emirati values and the nation's unique educational priorities. Through quality programmes, innovative research, and strategic partnerships, the framework emphasises the development of future-ready educators capable of implementing forward-thinking teaching methods and contributing to local and international educational standards.


Gulf Today
24-05-2025
- Politics
- Gulf Today
Meeting highlights AI's role in shaping future-ready educators
The Emirates College for Advanced Education (ECAE), in collaboration with the National Institute of Education (NIE), Singapore, and with the support of the UAE Embassy, held a high-level symposium in Singapore titled Reimagining the Future of Teaching & Learning in the Age of AI: Values-Driven Human Flourishing, highlighting the growing cooperation between the UAE and Singapore in future-focused education. The event brought together senior policymakers, academics, and researchers to explore the transformative potential of artificial intelligence in education. The symposium explored key questions shaping the future of learning, including the evolving role of educators in the AI era and the design of education systems that prioritise student growth, equity, ethics, and professional excellence. In his welcome address, Jamal Abdullah Al Suwaidi, UAE's Ambassador to Singapore, highlighted the longstanding relations between the two countries and their cooperation and strategic partnerships across multiple sectors, including education. Reflecting on the UAE's forward-looking approach, he noted: 'Just a few weeks ago, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, announced that starting next academic year, AI will be a subject in all stages of government schools in our country. This vision underlines our leadership's commitment to future-readiness and the development of human capital.' He pointed out that the UAE's aim is not merely to adopt new tools, but to fundamentally rethink education itself. He said: 'AI presents us with powerful opportunities to personalise learning, assist teachers and expand access. At the same time, it brings complex questions around ethics, data privacy, and digital wellbeing. These are not challenges one nation can solve alone – they require global collaboration. And that is where the UAE-Singapore partnership shines.' Dr May Laith Al Taee, Vice Chancellor of ECAE, highlighted in her opening remarks the significance of the symposium in advancing ECAE's mission to serve as a bridge between educational policy, research, and innovation. She said: 'This gathering reflects a shared commitment to shaping education systems that are technologically advanced and deeply human. At ECAE, we believe that global collaboration is essential to creating meaningful, scalable change, and our partnership with NIE is a powerful example of what can be achieved when values and vision align.' A panel discussion brought together leading educators and academics, including Prof. Low Ee Ling, Dean, Academic & Faculty Affairs and President's Chair in Education at NIE; Associate Professor Dr. Seng Chee Tan, Associate Dean, Professional & Leadership Development at NIE; Prof. David Pedder, Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic at ECAE; and Prof. Shaljan Areepattamannil, Director, Office of Research at ECAE. Prof. Low said: 'As AI transforms education, teacher education remains grounded in what truly matters. We stay values-anchored, student-centered, evidence-informed, and future-focused — principles that guide teachers to lead with heart, purpose, and professionalism. 'While AI can enhance how we teach, it cannot replace the human connection at the core of great teaching. These enduring anchors ensure that, beyond AI, teacher education continues to shape educators who are grounded, well prepared, and ready to thrive in an uncertain future.' Dr Seng explored how AI is reshaping the very foundations of pedagogy and advocated for learning designs that preserve human insight and creativity. He pointed out how the rise of generative AI is challenging us to rethink the way we teach and learn. He said: 'Using the framework of learning from, with, about, and beyond AI, it emphasises that while AI can reshape education, enduring pedagogical principles must guide our journey, and holistic design considerations should be applied. 'Especially in learning with AI, we must develop approaches that are timeless, rooted in human agency, insight, meaningful interaction, and knowledge creation capacity.'