Today's Edition
SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)
Martin Daltry, the new British Council UAE Country Director, highlighted the Council's 90th birthday celebration and its focus on peace and prosperity through arts, culture, education, and English language development.
Established in 1972, the Council aims to align young people's talent with the UAE's Vision 2030 and global challenges.
In an exclusive interview with Aletihad, Daltry stressed that the British Council supports the UAE's educational goals. "We work in two ways, directly with individuals to transform their lives and with government and partners to make a bigger difference for the longer term, creating benefit for millions of young people. We help Emiratis pursue higher education by providing IELTS tests, which are key for university admissions," he said.
"Each year, we deliver thousands of IELTS tests in a professional and reliable environment, supporting access to global academic opportunities. Additionally, we help Emirati professionals upskill in sectors like finance and accounting through our partnership with the UAE Ministry of Economy and the Accountants and Auditors Association, delivering over 4,000 ACCA exams since 2022," Daltry added.
He stressed the British Council's role in UAE's cultural exchange, highlighting partnerships with the Ministry of Culture and Youth, initiatives like "Culture Responds", and the ANHAR Programme,
Discussing skills development in the UAE, Daltry said: "We are committed to fostering skills development through a comprehensive approach that spans education, leadership, and creative industries. Our English language offerings and IELTS tests equip individuals with communication skills vital for academic and professional success. In the creative sector, we support professionals through dialogues on sustainability, emerging technologies, and heritage protection. These efforts not only build local capacity but also connect Emirati talent with global opportunities."
He said that the Council is focusing on cultural exchange, expanding initiatives like ANHAR Creative Commissions – collaboration between UK and UAE artists – and partnering with the Ministry of Culture to address cultural sustainability.
On English language education in the UAE, Daltry explained: "English language education is at the heart of our mission. We offer English language courses for adults, children, and teenagers at our centres in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Sharjah. We had a tremendous response to our intensive holiday courses for children and teenagers in July and August and look forward to delivering more during the December-January school break. It's a great way for kids to have fun, develop life skills, and boost their English."
Discussing partnerships, he mentioned that the Partner Schools programme supports UAE schools in delivering UK international qualifications, offering expert guidance, rigorous Quality and Compliance Assessment, continuing professional development, and networking opportunities.
Daltry also addressed the future workforce needs, noting that the Council's programmes equip Emirati youth with the skills and knowledge necessary for a rapidly evolving job market.
"By focusing on English proficiency, leadership development, and access to international qualifications, we prepare individuals to excel in global environments. Initiatives like the 'Future Foresight' report and dialogues on sustainability ensure that the creative and education sectors are future-ready," he said.
In Daltry's view, technology plays a pivotal role in enhancing education and cultural exchange, with tools like English courses and online teacher training programmes.
He envisions the British Council developing youth talent aligned with Vision 2030, strengthening ties between the UAE, UK, and global partners. Plans include expanding programmes, deepening cultural collaboration, launching Heritage Protection Fellowships, as well as growing the certified training network.
