In a historic decision, President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has designated February 28 as Emirati Day for Education. This annual observance aims to honor the significant role education has played in the United Arab Emirates’ development, societal progress, and cultural enrichment.
His Highness emphasized that education has always been central to the UAE’s long-term vision. Since the country’s founding, it has served as a cornerstone for growth, innovation, and cultural advancement. Education has continually been positioned at the heart of the nation’s development agenda, powering the UAE’s journey towards becoming a leading knowledge-based society.
The choice of February 28 is particularly symbolic. This date marks the graduation of the first group of teachers from the UAE University in 1982.
The graduation ceremony was attended by the UAE’s Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and the Rulers of the Emirates. His Highness Sheikh Mohamed stressed that the event laid the foundation for the UAE’s educational framework, making it a fitting date to celebrate the country’s educational milestones.
The new annual celebration reflects the UAE’s leadership’s unwavering belief in the value of education. His Highness pointed out that education is not just an essential element of nation-building but also a driving force for sustainable development. He reiterated that education would remain a top priority as the UAE continues to focus on empowering its people, strengthening their capacities, and preparing them for future challenges.
By prioritizing human development, the UAE aims to foster a knowledge-driven society rooted in Emirati values, traditions, and identity, ensuring a bright future for generations to come.
To further underscore the importance of education, His Highness noted that the initiative reflects the UAE’s broader National Agenda, which integrates education as a key driver of innovation, sustainability, and social cohesion. By continually investing in human capital, the nation ensures that future generations are well-equipped to handle emerging global challenges and contribute to the UAE’s enduring progress. The celebration will also highlight the collaborative efforts between educators, institutions, and policymakers, driving home the message that education is a collective responsibility for the UAE’s advancement.
