UAE officials study New York education models to strengthen future-ready learning

An official Emirati delegation visited New York City this week to explore opportunities for educational cooperation with New York State education authorities, according to the state-run WAM news agency.

The delegation represented the Education, Human Development and Community Development Council and the UAE Ministry of Education. The visit focused on examining advanced education practices in New York and identifying areas for collaboration.

Members of the delegation included Minister of Education Sarah Al Amiri, EHRC Secretary-General Hajer Ahmed Al Thehli, and Tariq Al Hashemi, assistant undersecretary for school operations at the Ministry of Education for Dubai and the Northern Emirates.

Senior education officials from Next71, a UAE-based artificial intelligence and smart education solutions company, were also part of the delegation.

Officials examined New York City’s education practices and discussed cooperation in alternative education, innovative learning models, curriculum development and the use of modern technologies and artificial intelligence to improve learning outcomes.

Al Amiri said the visit was an important step toward strengthening cooperation and building partnerships that translate shared expertise into practical initiatives to advance education in the UAE.

She said learning from leading global education systems supports national education goals and helps develop innovative and sustainable solutions that enhance the future readiness of students and teachers.

“At the Ministry of Education, we are committed to bolstering cooperation frameworks with partners, focusing on capacity building, joint research and pilot initiatives that are measurable, scalable and sustainable,” Al Amiri said.

She added that the ministry aims to enhance the future readiness of students and teachers within a flexible education system.

Al Thehli said the visit marked a key step in strengthening international education cooperation and advancing a holistic system linked to human and community development.

She said the approach draws on advanced global practices in education governance, quality outcomes and aligning policy with future needs.

Al Thehli added that meetings and site visits provided in-depth exposure to diverse and innovative education models.

She said the engagement supports the development of flexible learning pathways, strengthens teacher preparation and improves links between education outcomes, human development priorities and labor market needs.

The delegation held meetings and field visits focused on education system governance, quality assurance in public and independent schools, and alternative and project-based learning models.

Other focus areas included innovative school management, inclusive learning, educational technologies, AI-driven personalized learning, teacher preparation and professional development, and oversight of home and hybrid learning.

The discussions also covered international partnerships and joint initiatives aimed at advancing the UAE’s education system.

During the visit, the delegation met with educational leaders and institutions in New York City, including the New York State Education Department.

They also met with the Office of Religious and Independent School Support and the New York City Department of Education’s Office of Homeschooling.

The delegation toured several schools and institutions, including The Harlem Children’s Zone, Bank Street College of Education and The New School.

Other visits included Success Academy Charter School–Union Square, The Urban Assembly, the Civic Hall Centre for Digital Learning and Teachers College at Columbia University.

The delegation also toured several high schools focused on student talent development and education technology.

According to WAM, the visit reflects the UAE’s efforts to build international education partnerships and apply global best practices to prepare students for future challenges through knowledge and technology.