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Regulating the Private Education Sector in RAK

by Belinda Breeze

The Ras Al Khaimah Department of Knowledge (RAK DOK) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Education (MoE) to delegate the powers to regulate the private education sector in the emirate to the RAK DOK until the end of 2024.

The move aligns with the objectives of Ras Al Khaimah’s Vision 2030, and the national aspirations aimed at continuing to advance the educational system to keep pace with the latest global trends.

Her Excellency Dr Rabaa Al Sumaiti, Undersecretary for the Performance Improvement Sector at the MoE, and His Excellency Dr Abdulrahman Al Naqbi, RAK DOK Board Member, signed the MoU. According to the MoU, RAK DOK will adopt a fresh approach that focuses on improving educational services and enhancing their quality to meet the best international standards, in line with the future development goals of the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah.

RAK DOK will focus on the comprehensiveness of education and empowering students of determination

Dr Al Sumaiti stressed the pivotal role of RAK DOK in supporting efforts to develop the educational system in the emirate, fostering competitiveness and efficiency. She emphasised the Ministry’s commitment to supporting the department in enhancing private education in Ras Al Khaimah, aligning with students’ aspirations, and attracting top-tier international educational institutions, saying: “This MoU marks the first step of our strategic collaboration with the Ras Al Khaimah Department of Knowledge, aimed at supporting their team in fulfilling their responsibilities and efficiently attaining the department’s strategic objectives. We look forward to strengthening our cooperation with the department and all our local partners to enhance every facet of the education system in the country.”

The MoU supports the RAK DOK’s efforts towards elevating the private education system in the emirate while promoting excellence and innovation, as well as working to attract top-tier international educational and academic institutions, to solidify its position as a leading education destination.

His Excellency Dr Abdulrahman Al Naqbi said: “Ras Al Khaimah Department of Knowledge is thrilled to embark on this journey with our partners at the Ministry of Education. This is a highly notable and exciting new chapter in our collective efforts to enhance educational outcomes in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah. By joining forces, we have a unique opportunity to elevate educational standards to global levels and address the diverse needs of all students, including students of determination.

“It’s an exciting time for the education sector in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah. RAK DOK will play an essential role in overseeing, supporting, and illuminating the path towards excellence in education. We look forward to reaping the fruits of our partnership with the Ministry of Education and its contribution to embodying the UAE’s vision to achieve excellence and quality in the private education sector in Ras Al Khaimah, and to enable students to achieve higher levels of academic excellence.”

Dr Al Naqbi praised the work teams for improving the quality of life for students, educators, and faculty, enriching the educational experience, and raising academic performance levels.

Comprising four directorates, RAK DOK will oversee Licensing and Compliance, Operations and Engagement, Quality and Assessment, and Strategy and Policy for the private education sector. The activities of these departments are integrated to build a comprehensive educational system for all levels of education.

With a growing population comprising both nationals and expatriates from all over the world, Ras Al Khaimah boasts a progressive educational landscape. Currently, the emirate hosts 107 schools, encompassing both public and private institutions, offering a range of curricula that cater to the needs of its segments. In 2022, the emirate joined UNESCO’s Global Network of Learning Cities.