Talking tolerance to Dubai schools
Educators from private schools in Dubai united to celebrate the spirit of tolerance at an event hosted by Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA). Promoting positive practices in education, the ‘What Works’ sessions highlighted the journey of Dubai schools towards creating tolerance and empathy in students.
Dr Abdulla Al Karam, Chairman of the Board of Directors and Director General of KHDA said, “Dubai’s education sector reflects diversity. Tolerance is what connects us with each another. We are shining a light on this important theme and giving schools an opportunity to look at ways to engage with their school community to create greater tolerance.”
International positive education pioneers from Geelong Grammar School in Melbourne shared their school’s transformational journey at the event.
Justin Robinson from Geelong Grammar School, said, “Six years ago we changed our school policies to be underpinned by kindness. It simply was not possible to get a detention at our school even if a student did something wrong. Instead, there will always be someone to speak to.”
He added, “All schools like to reduce bullying behavior and it’s only possible by discussing empathy through positive education. Developing these skills is critical.”
Sessions hosted at the What Works Tolerance talks included teaching cultural intelligence, appreciating differences, cyber tolerance and happiness among others.
Rashid Al Tunaiji from the UAE National Programme for Tolerance invited Dubai schools to contribute towards building a tolerant society as he said, “Since the inception of the UAE, our leaders have given special care and attention to promote the values of tolerance. Our emphasis is to spread values of coexistence, tolerance and peace in the society.”
A panel discussion discussed the importance of social media in promoting tolerance. More than 500 teachers from private schools in Dubai participated in the event.
– KHDA Media
