Today's Edition
SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)
For many families in the UAE, homes became classrooms on Monday as distance learning was rolled out amid regional developments. Parents supported their children as students attended lessons seamlessly, thanks to a well-established digital learning infrastructure and a national commitment to ensuring education continues uninterrupted.
The Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research have directed that learning move online from Monday, March 2, until Wednesday, March 4.
Parents welcomed the shift that put children's safety first while keeping their education on track.
Emirati mother Mariam Al Marzooqi said that, at a time like this, "distance learning comes as a blessing". "The existence of these electronic platforms gives us a feeling of continuity and stability," she said.
Hind Al Obthani, also a UAE national, said this has been made possible through the country's forward-looking vision and early investment in technological infrastructure. The successful shift to online learning highlight a nation that "puts people first and believes that education is the cornerstone of stability and development", she added.
Future-Ready Generation
On Monday, Asma Al Zaabi readily took on the task of creating a suitable study environment for her children, while also providing encouragement and emotional support.
The benefits of e-learning goes beyond safety, Al Zaabi told Aletihad. "It also helps improve children's time management skills, instils in them a sense of responsibility, and enhances self-reliance."
UAE national Mona Al Naqbi agreed that remote classes offer wider opportunities for growth, equipping children for the future.
"By developing skills in time management, communication, self-learning, technology, critical thinking, collaboration, organisation, and adaptability, students can be better prepared to face future challenges," she said.
Since virtual learning platforms have long been in place and are already part of student life, remote classes were second nature to school communities. In an e-learning setup. lessons are delivered through these established portals, which also provide a direct line for students and parents to ask questions or seek clarifications, said Emirati teacher Amna Al-Maskari.
Today's youth are digital natives and with innovative tools integrated in education, "they learn how to use modern technologies more effectively", she said.
Family Support
Khawla Al Ketbi, also a parent, said that at the core of the transition are families and schools working in sync to support children. While teachers adjust lesson plans and classroom activities for the virtual setup, "families commit to helping organise their children's time and providing psychological support and motivation".
Al Naqbi stressed that "the family's role in supporting distance learning is crucial to ensuring student success".
Student Asma Al Marzooqi has experienced firsthand how much parental support matters in maintaining focus and engagement. "Having family close by ensures a calm environment suitable for study … with psychological support through continuous encouragement," she said.
With remote work recommended for private sector employees, families have been able to manage daily routines more smoothly. For Syrian mother Alma Mike, being able to do office tasks at home makes it easier for parents to guide their children.
This balance is supported by the UAE authorities' coordinated approach to the regional situation. "The government's efforts to promote calm and reduce anxiety have had a positive impact on both parents and children," Mike said.
