On February 28, 2025, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) celebrated its inaugural Emirati Day for Education, marking the occasion with the presentation of the prestigious Emirati Day for Education Award to His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence. This award not only honors Sheikh Nahyan’s significant contributions to the education sector but also celebrates the leadership's commitment to fostering educational development within the country.
The ceremony took place at the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU), celebrated for its role as a cornerstone of higher education in the nation. The event was attended by esteemed dignitaries including His Excellency Zaki Anwar Nusseibeh, Cultural Advisor to the UAE President and Chancellor of UAEU, as well as students, educators, and officials dedicated to advancing educational excellence.
Sheikh Nahyan expressed deep appreciation for receiving the award, stating, “It gives me immense pleasure to be here at the United Arab Emirates University, among brothers and colleagues. I am particularly delighted to accept this honour with the Emirati Day for Education Award, and I deeply appreciate the sincere meanings and kind feelings it embodies.” His remarks underscored the festival's intent to highlight the importance of education as pivotal to the UAE's progress and prosperity.
The celebratory events included a panel discussion titled “Envisioning the Future of Education in the UAE,” featuring notable figures such as His Excellency Prof. Ahmed Ali Al Raeesi, Acting Vice Chancellor of UAEU, and Dr. Ali Al Ahbabi, Director of the UAEU Center for Public Policy and Leadership. Moderated by His Excellency Mohammed Al Kaabi, Executive Director of the Ajman Government Media Office, the discussion highlighted the strategic visions aimed at enhancing the educational framework and instilling creativity and inquiry within future generations.
Sheikh Nahyan reflected on the historical significance of education within the UAE, recalling the moment when the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan presided over the graduation of the first cohort of teachers from UAEU back in 1982. He stated, “My presence with you evokes cherished memories... to achieve an ambition guiding the sons and daughters of the UAE on the path of knowledge and light.” His discourse emphasized the continual legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed, whose commitment to education laid the foundations for the nation’s progress.
Throughout the presentation, Sheikh Nahyan reiterated his determination to cultivate the talents of Emirati youth, enabling them to contribute effectively to societal needs. He remarked, “I would like to take this occasion to proudly and honourably remind this pivotal role of the founding father...because of his efforts, this university was established, developed with his support, and grew and flourished with his care and guidance.”
The Minister's speech carried another significant theme on the continuity of education's development under the guidance of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who is committed to assuring UAEU's reputation aligns with the nation’s ambition. “His Highness always reminds us quality education is the true tool for...a bright future,” Sheikh Nahyan added, appreciating the support offered by the leadership.
The ceremony concluded with Sheikh Nahyan's expression of gratitude to His Highness for the unwavering support of educational initiatives and his efforts to prepare Emirati youth for future challenges. He stated, “On the occasion of the Emirati Day for Education, I express my deep gratitude, utmost respect, and deep appreciation to His Highness the President of the UAE.”
His Excellency Zaki Anwar Nusseibeh also shared his insights, stating, “The inclusion of this day in the national agenda of the UAE is a testimony to our wise leadership’s belief in the value of education and its role.” The importance placed on education as the foundation of societal development struck chords throughout the audience, reinforcing the necessity of educational advancement.
To mark the completion of the festivities, attendees were treated to the “Beacon of Education” operetta, which highlighted the educational milestones achieved throughout UAE history. The performance reinforced UAEU's pledge to lead the nation’s vision of educational leadership, encapsulating its role as a center for knowledge and innovation worldwide.
The Emirati Day for Education serves as both a reminder and celebration of the tireless efforts championed by leaders and educators alike to position the UAE as a global model for transformative educational practices. This day reaffirms the UAE's belief in education as the cornerstone of its national identity and development aspirations, securing bright futures for its youth and enduring legacies for the nation.