‘Emirati Studies’ move welcomed

Muaz Shabandri / 28 November 2012 All tertiary students in the country’s private and public universities will soon have to pass a new ‘Emirati Studies’ course before they can graduate — with many welcoming the move. The move falls in line with efforts to boost UAE culture and identity in universities, with the cabinet directing the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research to introduce ‘Emirati Studies’ as a prerequisite subject for graduation, along with a host of other moves for planned ‘Emiratisation’ next year. Head of Dubai International Academic City and Dubai Knowledge Village Dr Ayoub Kazim described the move as a “great initiative”. “Dubai truly has an international student body. Over 18,000 students from 143 nationalities are based in the two academic free zones in Dubai. It is important to provide students with a better understanding of the culture and heritage of the UAE. They should learn about the formation of the union, its history, the economic and political framework.” British University in Dubai’s vice-chancellor Abdullah M. Al Shamsi echoed similar views, saying many people, particularly Emiratis, had been calling for the move for some time. “Such courses on the history and culture are mandatory in many other countries, and I think is a good step forward for the nation. It is in the best interests of the students and the development of higher education in the country.” He said the move came at the right time, as the growing importance of private education demanded the introduction of such a course. Students also welcomed the announcement. Aiman Fatma, an expatriate student from India, who attends Manipal University, said not many students knew Arabic, and most had a “very limited understanding of the country and its people”. “Understanding the culture, traditions and festivals should be an important part of the education process.” Emirati student Maryam Al Mansoori from Zayed University said it was important to make all residents aware of the Emirates’ identity and history. “The Emirati community is very close-knit and many people don’t know our stories. It is important to make them aware of our identity, what our history is.” muaz@khaleejtimes.com http://khaleejtimes.com/nation/inside.asp?xfile=/data/educationnation/2012/November/educationnation_November45.xml&section=educationnation Source : Khaleejtimes.com