In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at fostering linguistic heritage and cultural identity from the earliest stages of education, the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) has introduced a new policy mandating the inclusion of Arabic language instruction in every private and charter kindergarten across the emirate. This initiative, set to take effect in Fall 2025, promises to lay a firm foundation for young learners, beginning from Pre-KG through to KG2.
The rationale behind this significant policy shift is to instill a profound connection to the Arabic language, extending beyond mere literacy. By embedding the mother tongue into the educational framework, ADEK aspires to cultivate a sense of belonging and identity among future generations. Linguistic studies have consistently indicated that children absorb languages most effectively at a young age, making this an opportune moment for such an initiative. Arabic is not just a subject within the curriculum; it serves as a vital conduit to a rich cultural tapestry characterized by values, stories, and traditions that form the essence of personal and collective identities.
Under the newly established ADEK School KG Arabic Curriculum Policy, young learners will be provided with a minimum of 240 minutes of structured Arabic instruction each week. This instructional duration is expected to increase to 300 minutes per week starting in the 2026/27 academic year. The policy guarantees that all children, regardless of whether they are native speakers or newcomers grappling with the complexities of the language for the first time, will have access to consistent and high-quality language instruction during this critical phase of language acquisition. By doing so, ADEK aims to foster confidence in children, empowering them with the ability to communicate effectively in the language that connects them to their heritage and future endeavors.
Recent surveys conducted by ADEK reveal a troubling disparity: while Arabic is frequently spoken in homes, many children struggle to articulate their thoughts confidently in the language. This underscores the necessity for a thoughtful and comprehensive approach to Arabic education, wherein schools and families collaborate to ensure that Arabic remains a vibrant, living language within the community. The new policy seeks to bridge this gap, providing crucial support to both educators and families.
The curriculum promises to make the learning process engaging and enjoyable, incorporating elements of play, storytelling, music, and exploratory activities. ADEK has designed two distinct learning tracks within the curriculum: one focusing on enhancing the skills of native Arabic speakers, while the other caters specifically to non-native speakers. This dual approach ensures that each child is guided according to their individual proficiency levels, facilitating a more tailored educational experience. Well-trained educators equipped with contemporary teaching materials and creative classroom activities will play a vital role in bringing this vision to life, transforming Arabic into a language that students eagerly engage with on a daily basis.
“This is not merely about programming additional Arabic lessons into the school day,” emphasized Mariam Al Hallami, Executive Director of Early Education at ADEK. “It is about enriching every child’s life in Abu Dhabi with the gift of language, identity, and connectivity from the very beginning. Our ambition is for Arabic to become a natural, interactive, and vibrant part of both the classroom and the home environment.”
The strategic implementation of this new curriculum represents a critical link between nursery education, governed by ADEK’s Early Education Institutions (EEI) policies, and the transition into mandatory Arabic instruction required during Cycle 1 of the educational framework. This alignment is key in promoting seamless language development during the formative years of childhood.
The role of parents is pivotal in this educational journey. Schools will provide families with tools, resources, and updates that encourage them to participate actively in their children’s Arabic learning. Simple activities, such as practicing new vocabulary at home, reading Arabic literature together, or taking part in culturally-themed events at school, will enhance the educational experience.
Ultimately, the introduction of the new kindergarten Arabic curriculum forms part of ADEK’s broader vision: to transform Arabic from being merely a subject taught in classrooms into a vibrant language that is an integral part of children’s lives, shaping their identities and enriching their cultural experiences.
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