H.H. Sheikh Hamdan Approves the First Dubai Student Council

His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai, has given his formal approval for the establishment of the first Knowledge and Human Development Authority-backed “Dubai Student Council” for the 2025-26 academic year.

The new Student Council will comprise 16 students chosen from private schools in Dubai, representing six curricula and nine nationalities. The members, drawn from Grades 9 through 12 (Years 10 to 13), were selected through a rigorous process involving nominations from approximately 90 private schools, shortlisting 40 candidates, and a final interview and group activity stage conducted in collaboration with PwC Consulting. 

One of the key aims behind the Dubai Student Council is to amplify the voice of students in shaping educational programmes and policies. The council acts as a direct link between the student community and the KHDA, enabling collaboration, dialogue and shared decision-making.

Gender balance has been achieved (eight male and eight female members), and the composition includes Emirati students and a student of determination, reflecting Dubai’s commitment to diversity, inclusivity and representation. 

Ensuring that student voices of different backgrounds are heard aligns with broader goals of fostering innovation, leadership and participation among youth in the emirate. 

At its first meeting, the council convened in the presence of Abdulla Mohammed Al Basti (Secretary General of the Executive Council of Dubai) and Aisha Miran (Director General of the KHDA).

As part of the meeting, each council member received a copy of the book Lessons from Life by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, along with a personal message from Sheikh Hamdan himself—emphasising values of service, innovation and Arab youth leadership. 

Sheikh Hamdan highlighted that the council is “a symbol of responsibility, commitment and service to your community and fellow students,” and stressed, “You are now the voice of students in Dubai. You will carry their ambitions, express their ideas, and contribute to developing our education system.”  His remarks underscore the expectation that student leaders will play a proactive role in the emirate’s education strategy and help shape a future-ready learning ecosystem. 

The establishment of the Student Council ties in with Dubai’s larger “Education 33 Strategy” and the “Leaders of Tomorrow” initiative — an agenda focused on preparing young people for the future by nurturing their potential, embedding leadership mindsets and fostering innovation.