UAE Schools to Return to In-Person Learning on Monday

 The Ministry of Education has announced the resumption of in-person learning for all public and private nurseries, kindergartens and schools on Monday, April 20, marking a significant return to normalcy in the UAE's education sector after months of remote instruction.

The ministry confirmed that private schools will retain the flexibility to implement a hybrid rotational model when necessary, ensuring institutions can adapt to ongoing circumstances while maintaining educational continuity. This decision follows comprehensive readiness and preparation plans completed across the country's educational institutions.

The same in-person return applies to higher education institutions, with all students and academic and administrative staff at both public and private universities scheduled to return to campus operations on Monday.

"Educational institutions will remain prepared to move to alternative teaching methods when needed," the ministry stated, emphasizing proactive planning for any potential disruptions. Guidelines are currently being developed to support flexible transitions between in-person and remote learning as required by changing circumstances.

This announcement comes after educational authorities conducted thorough inspections of government and local educational institutions to ensure they were fully prepared to safely accommodate students and staff in physical learning environments.

The shift to remote learning was implemented nationwide in early March following Iran's initial attacks on UAE territory using missiles and drones. The ministry had previously announced that remote instruction would continue across the UAE until at least April 17, with weekly reviews of the situation scheduled.

The Iran war has significantly impacted educational operations, with major international examinations such as A-level and GCSE exams being cancelled. Leading UK education boards confirmed this month that summer examinations for school leavers and university hopefuls would be scrapped, potentially affecting academic progression for thousands of students.

Since the conflict began on February 28, UAE air defences have successfully intercepted 537 ballistic missiles, 26 cruise missiles, and 2,256 drones launched by Iranian forces. The attacks have resulted in the deaths of two UAE Armed Forces personnel and a Moroccan civilian contractor, while 10 civilians from various nationalities including Pakistani, Nepali, Bangladeshi, Palestinian, and Indian citizens have also lost their lives. A total of 224 injuries have been recorded across the Emirates during the ongoing conflict.

The resumption of in-person learning represents an important milestone in the UAE's efforts to maintain educational stability while navigating the challenges posed by the regional security situation.