Day: June 28, 2024

DUBAI: Dubai’s private schools continue to shine in international rankings, placing second in financial literacy and sixth in creative thinking, according to a study conducted as part of the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) 2022 by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).

Held every three years, PISA evaluates 15-year-old students’ abilities to apply real-life skills in reading, mathematics, and science to practical situations. Dubai participated in the additional financial literacy and creative thinking domains for the first time in 2022.

According to OECD, financial literacy measures how well students know and understand financial concepts and risks, and their skills, motivation, and confidence to make good decisions in different financial situations.

Creative thinking measures students’ ability to come up with, evaluate, and improve ideas that can result in original and effective solutions, advances in knowledge, and impactful expressions of creativity.

Dub
ai private schools ranked second out of 20 participating countries and regions for financial literacy, scoring 522 points, compared to the OECD global average of 498 points.

Eighty-two per cent of the 4,478 participating students from Dubai said they know how to manage their money, and 79 percent said they had savings goals for things they want to buy or do.

Dubai private schools also ranked sixth out of 64 participating countries and regions for creative thinking, scoring 36 points compared to the OECD average of 33 points.

Eighty-four per cent of 7,474 participating students from Dubai private schools performed at the OECD baseline level or above in creative thinking skills. Seventy-four per cent of students indicated in their responses that they are confident of coming up with creative ideas for school projects.

Premier education destination

Commenting on the results, Aisha Miran, Director-General of the Knowledge and Human Development Authority said, ‘We are immensely proud of our students and school
s’ performance in these international assessments, which underscore Dubai’s reputation as a premier destination for high quality education that equips students with future skills for a rapidly changing world.

‘We are grateful to all the school leaders who play an important role in motivating and inspiring teachers and students to improve their performance, to teachers who encourage students to develop their abilities and discover their potential, to parents who support and encourage their children to achieve their goals, and to students whose hard work and resilience brought about this remarkable result.

‘These results reaffirm Dubai’s position as a leader in education, aligning with the leadership’s vision and goals of D33 and Dubai Social Agenda 33, and reflects our commitment to fostering an environment where students can thrive and contribute meaningfully to the development of our society.’

Fatma Belrehif, CEO of the Dubai Schools Inspection Bureau, added, ‘This study provides comprehensive data on the
financial and creative thinking skills of our students, providing school leaders and educational policymakers with detailed insights to build plans and policies that equip students with future skills. The results of the study show that schools that excel in creative thinking also achieve high scores in mathematics, reading, and science. This highlights the importance of developing our students’ capabilities across all fields to prepare them for the future. We appreciate the vital role of school leaders, teachers and parents in enhancing our students’ abilities and their positive contributions to the overall development of various sectors.’

According to the PISA 2022 results announced in December 2023, Dubai private schools ranked ninth globally in mathematics with a mean score of 497, exceeding the OECD average by 25 points. Dubai schools also ranked 13th globally in reading with a mean score of 498, and 14th in science, with a mean score of 503 points.

Source: Emirates News Agency

AJMAN: Sheikh Rashid bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Chairman of Ajman Municipality and Planning Department and Vice Chairman of Ajman University’s Board of Trustees, attended Ajman University Gala celebrating the University’s recent local and international achievements.

The event, held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Crown Prince of Ajman, Chairman of Ajman Executive Council, and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Ajman University at Sheikh Zayed Hall for Conferences and Exhibitions on campus, was graced by the presence of distinguished guests. These included Prof. Dr. Mohammed Yousef Baniyas, Higher Education Advisor and Director of the Academic Accreditation Commission at the UAE Ministry of Education, and Dr. Ashwin Fernandez, Executive Director of QS in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia. The gala also saw the attendance of several prominent figures, alumni, faculty members, and administrative staff.

Sheikh Rashid bin Humaid Al Nuaimi expressed his pride in the University’s
accomplishments, stating, “We are proud of Ajman University’s achievements, realised through the vision and support of His Highness Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi and His Highness Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, along with the dedication of our faculty and staff who have prioritised academic and research excellence. We have always committed to providing high-quality educational programs that foster an inspiring learning environment aligned with global developments.”

He added, “With support from the Ministry of Education, Ajman University has developed diverse programs that implement best global practices, contributing to our rise to the 477th position globally. This marks a new milestone for us. We aim to continue providing inclusive and high-quality education, enhancing our status as a leading educational institution.”

In his opening remarks, Dr. Karim Seghir, Chancellor of Ajman University, underscored the University’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence and innovation.

He stated, “This g
ala is a testament to our continuous efforts and relentless pursuit of excellence and leadership. The trust of our partners and community members is the driving force behind our achievements, and their unwavering support helps us realise our vision.”

He added, ‘Notable achievements this year include our transformation into a non-profit institution and our advanced ranking in the QS classification, reflecting our commitment to academic excellence and innovation. We are dedicated to enhancing scientific research and supporting our students’ professional journeys to achieve further successes and elevate the standard of higher education in our region.’

Source: Emirates News Agency

ABU DHABI: Her Highness Sheikha Salama bint Hamdan Al Nahyan, wife of His Highness the UAE President, today welcomed Louise Araneta-Marcos, the First Lady of the Philippines, who is on a working visit to the UAE. The reception took place in the presence of H.H. Sheikha Mariam bint Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairperson of the Presidential Court for National Projects and Chairperson of the Salama bint Hamdan Al Nahyan Foundation.

During the meeting, which was held at Qasr Al Bahr in Abu Dhabi, Her Highness extended her warmest welcome to the First Lady, wishing her a pleasant stay and a successful visit to the UAE. Louise Araneta-Marcos expressed her pleasure at visiting the UAE and thanked Her Highness for the warm hospitality she received.

The two sides discussed opportunities to enhance cooperation between entities in both countries across various fields, especially in culture, arts, and heritage. They also explored ways to enrich the cultural and artistic landscape in both nations, with a partic
ular focus on early childhood development and investment in human capital, which is a priority.

Her Highness Sheikha Salama bint Hamdan Al Nahyan affirmed that attention to culture and the arts in all their forms, as well as national heritage, is at the core of the UAE’s developmental vision. She pointed out the UAE’s interest in encouraging creative and talented individuals to enhance the cultural and artistic scene and elevate this sector.

Her Highness also briefed the First Lady of the Philippines on the UAE leadership’s efforts and initiatives in the field of women’s empowerment, highlighting the opportunities and support provided to enhance women’s contributions to the development of their communities and the progress of the nation at various levels.

For her part, the First Lady of the Philippines commended the UAE’s broad cultural and developmental progress, expressing her admiration for Emirati women, who have successfully become key partners in the country’s development and nation-building process.
She praised the role of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Mother of the Nation, Chairwoman of the General Women’s Union, President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, and Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation, for her support of women and her dedication to providing the resources and opportunities that have made the empowerment of Emirati women an inspirational model. She also lauded Her Highness’ efforts in humanitarian work and her pioneering initiatives worldwide.

The wife of the President of the Philippines praised Her Highness Sheikha Salama bint Hamdan for her attention to the fields of culture, arts, and Emirati and human heritage, as well as her distinctive initiatives in this regard.

The meeting was attended by Sheikha Fakhra bint Khalifa bin Hamdan Al Nahyan, wife of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, along with several Sheikhas, female leaders, and the delegation accompanying the wife of the President of the Philippines.

Source: Emirat
es News Agency

NEW YORK: With just six years remaining, current progress falls far short of what is required to meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Without massive investment and scaled up action, the achievement of the SDGs – the blueprint for a more resilient and prosperous world and the roadmap out of current global crises – will remain elusive, warns The Sustainable Development Goals Report 2024, launched today.

The report reveals that only 17 percent of the SDG targets are currently on track, with nearly half showing minimal or moderate progress, and over one-third stalled or regressing.

According to the report, an additional 23 million people were pushed into extreme poverty and over 100 million more were suffering from hunger in 2022 compared to 2019. The number of civilian deaths in armed conflict skyrocketed in 2023. That year was also the warmest on record, with global temperatures nearing the critical 1.5°C threshold.

A moment of choice and consequence

‘This report highlights the urgent need for st
ronger and more effective international cooperation to maximise progress starting now,’ said UN Secretary-General António Guterres. ‘With more than six years left, we must not let up on our 2030 promise to end poverty, protect the planet and leave no one behind.’

Urgent priorities:

Financing development: The SDG investment gap in developing countries now stands at $4 trillion per year. Developing countries require more financial resources and fiscal space. Reforming the global financial architecture is crucial to unlocking the volume of financing required to spur sustainable development.

Peace and security: The number of forcibly displaced people has reached an unprecedented level, nearly 120 million by May 2024. Civilian casualties spiked by 72 percent between 2022 and 2023 amid escalating violence, highlighting the urgent need for peace. Resolving ongoing conflicts through dialogue and diplomacy is essential.

Implementation surge: Massive investment and effective partnerships are needed to drive critica
l transitions in food, energy, social protection, digital connectivity and more.

Success stories and opportunities for action

The report spotlights examples of success and resilience that can be built upon through decisive action.

The remarkable recent strides in deploying renewable energy, for example, highlight a clear pathway to a just energy transition. Girls in most regions have achieved parity and even pulled ahead of boys in completing schooling at all levels. Increasing internet access by about 70 percent in just eight years also illustrates how rapid transformative change is possible. Similarly, decades of progress against HIV/AIDS provide a template for overcoming other pandemics through global solidarity and funding for scientific breakthroughs.

‘Time and again, humanity has demonstrated that when we work together and apply our collective mind, we can forge solutions to seemingly intractable problems,’ said Li Junhua, UN Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs.

Key moments for
the SDGs

The Summit of the Future, taking place on 22nd and 23rd September at UN Headquarters in New York, will be pivotal to getting the world back on track to achieving the SDGs. Deliberations at the Summit will include addressing the debt crisis that is holding so many developing countries back and the urgent need for reform of the international financial architecture.

According to the report, both the Financing for Development Conference and the World Summit for Social Development in 2025 will be key moments to drive SDG momentum. But as Li stressed, ‘The time for words has passed – the political declarations must urgently translate into actions. We must act now, and act boldly.’

Source: Emirates News Agency

ABU DHABI: The 8th Korean Film Festival, organised by The Embassy of the Republic of Korea to the UAE and the Korean Cultural Centre, is making a grand return to Abu Dhabi and Dubai this July. This marks the first Korean film festival in Dubai since 2017. Film enthusiasts will have a unique opportunity to experience a diverse array of Korean films at VOX Cinemas, Yas Mall, Abu Dhabi, from 4th to 7th July, and at VOX Cinemas, Dubai Festival City Mall, from12th to 14th July .

This year’s festival theme, “freedom”, will be explored through a variety of genres and time periods, offering something for every taste, with a selection of fantasy, comedy, historical drama, mystery, musicals, and independent films to be featured.

Historical films such as “Road to Boston”, “Noryang, Deadly Sea”, and “Hero” will vividly depict the Korean people’s quest for freedom, while contemporary films like “Dream Palace”, “Love Reset”, and “Sleep” will tackle modern societal challenges and the resilience required to overcome them.
Films like “Pororo Movie: Dragon Castle Adventure” will provide laughs for children, and “Alienoid Part 2: The Return to the Future” will offer fantasy thrills for adults.

Korean cinema has garnered significant recognition and adoration among UAE audiences, making this festival a perfect opportunity for local fans to gather and enjoy these cinematic gems amidst the summer heat.

Lee Yong-hee, Cultural Attaché of the Korean Embassy, expressed enthusiasm about the festival’s return, stating, “We are thrilled to bring the Korean Film Festival back to Abu Dhabi and Dubai. This event not only showcases the rich and diverse storytelling of Korean cinema but also strengthens cultural ties between Korea and the UAE. We invite everyone to join us in celebrating freedom through film.”

The 8th Korean Film Festival promises to be an unforgettable experience, celebrating the spirit of freedom through the lens of Korean filmmakers.

Source: Emirates News Agency

SHARJAH: The Sharjah Airport Authority (SAA) and Air Arabia announced the addition of the Greek capital, Athens, to the latest direct travel destinations for passengers through Sharjah Airport. The first of these air routes was launched during the current week from Sharjah to Athens International Airport. The new route will allow travel and tourism enthusiasts to have 4 flights weekly, operating on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays, with plans to increase the number of flights in the future.

The inaugural flight ceremony was attended by Ali Salim Al Midfa, Chairman of Sharjah Airport Authority, Adel Al Ali, Group Chief Executive Officer of Air Arabia, and Antonis Alexandridis, Ambassador of the Hellenic Republic to the UAE, along with several officials from SAA and Air Arabia.

Ali Salim Al Midfa, Chairman of Sharjah Airport Authority, stated, “The launch of the new air route to the Hellenic Republic is a significant addition to the strategic development and expansion plan of Sharjah Airport. It invo
lves providing more of passengers preferred global destinations and diversifying options for them, in line with the growing demand in the travel and cargo sectors between the UAE and the Hellenic Republic. It aligns with the strength and diversity of mutual relations between the two countries, especially in areas related to the economy, tourism, trade, and other activities.”

Adel Al Ali, Group Chief Executive Officer of Air Arabia, commented, “Athens is the latest addition to our expanding EU network from Sharjah, joining Milan and Krakow. This new route provides our customers in the UAE and beyond with more opportunities to explore the Hellenic Republic with our renowned value-driven service. The launch of direct flights to Athens reaffirms our commitment to offering our passengers seamless, accessible, and affordable connectivity options. We look forward to welcoming our customers onboard to experience the rich history and cultural heritage of Athens.”

Source: Emirates News Agency