Private schools in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates, have achieved remarkable success in the 2023 International Trends in Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS), securing top rankings at both national and regional levels. These impressive results were unveiled in a recent international report presented by the International Association for the Evaluation of Educational Achievement (IEA).
The TIMSS study is a highly regarded international initiative that assesses student performance in mathematics and science, with participation from numerous countries. Its primary goal is to compare educational standards globally and identify strategies for improvement.
The study in Sharjah private schools encompassed a sample of 5,567 fourth-grade students from 116 schools and 4,630 eighth-grade students from 108 schools, representing all curricula in the Emirate. Both Arabic and English are used as languages of instruction.
Sharjah schools demonstrated important progress, ranking 29th globally in mathematics and 28th globally in science for fourth grade out of 72 participating educational systems. In eighth grade, they achieved an impressive 10th place globally in mathematics and 13th globally in science.
“51 private schools in Sharjah exceeded the international average in mathematics for fourth grade, and 38 schools surpassed the international average in science. In eighth grade, 35 schools achieved above the international average in both mathematics and science,” the report stated.
The study further highlighted that four Sharjah private schools received an “advanced international Standard” rating in science and mathematics for fourth grade. Additionally,20 schools achieved a “High International Standard” rating in fourth-grade mathematics,while 64 schools attained an “International Average Standard” in fourth-grade science. In eighth-grade mathematics, 54 schools reached the “International Average standard.”
Dr. Muhaddith Yahya Al Hashemi, Chairman of the Sharjah Private Education Authority, expressed immense pride in the accomplishments of Sharjah’s private schools. “We congratulate the participating schools and commend the dedicated efforts of the administrative and teaching staff, as well as the students and their families,” she said. “This achievement is a testament to the unwavering support and guidance provided by the Sharjah Private Education Authority.”
Dr. Al Hashemi attributed this success to the continuous support of His highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council of the Federation and Ruler of Sharjah. “The advancement of education in Sharjah is an ongoing process, and we are committed to achieving even greater milestones that elevate our education sector to the highest international standards,” she emphasized.
These outstanding results align with the Sharjah Private Education Authority’s vision of enhancing educational quality and achieving academic excellence in all educational institutions within the emirate. The Authority remains dedicated to developing students’ skills and providing them with an educational surroundings that meets the highest international benchmarks.
Through its programs and strategic plans, the Authority aims to nurture a creative generation capable of competing globally in science and mathematics. This achievement represents a significant step towards realizing the vision of Sharjah as a beacon of education and lasting growth, contributing to the UAE’s pursuit of innovation and global leadership.
The United Arab Emirates has announced a groundbreaking initiative to establish a national space program, aiming to send an unmanned spacecraft to Mars by 2021. This enterprising project, spearheaded by the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Center, marks a significant leap forward for the UAE’s scientific and technological aspirations.
“our goal is to reach Mars and contribute to the global understanding of the Red planet,” stated Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. “This mission is a testament to the UAE’s commitment to innovation and its pursuit of knowledge.”
The Mars mission, dubbed “Hope,” will involve the development of a sophisticated orbiter designed to study the Martian atmosphere and climate. The spacecraft will be equipped with advanced scientific instruments to gather data on Martian weather patterns, atmospheric composition, and the potential for past or present life.
“This project is a source of immense pride for the UAE and the Arab world,” said Yousuf Al Shaibani, Director General of the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre. “It demonstrates our ability to compete on the global stage in the field of space exploration.”
The UAE’s Mars mission is expected to inspire a new generation of scientists and engineers in the region, fostering a culture of scientific inquiry and technological advancement. The project is also seen as a symbol of the UAE’s ambition to become a leading player in the global space industry.
The “Hope” mission is scheduled to launch in 2020, with the spacecraft arriving at Mars in 2021. The UAE’s ambitious endeavor promises to contribute valuable insights into the mysteries of the Red Planet and inspire future generations to reach for the stars.
## Sharjah Private Schools Shine in TIMSS 2023
**World-Today-News Exclusive Interview**
**World-Today-News:** Dr. Al Hashemi,congratulations on the outstanding performance of Sharjah’s private schools in the 2023 TIMSS. These are remarkable results, especially considering the global benchmarks. What are your thoughts on this achievement?
**Dr. Muhaddith Yahya Al Hashemi (Chairman of the Sharjah Private Education Authority):** We are incredibly proud of our students, teachers, and school administrators. This achievement reflects their dedication, hard work, and commitment to excellence. These results are a testament to the high quality of education being delivered in Sharjah’s private schools.
**World-Today-News:** The TIMSS report highlighted that many Sharjah private schools surpassed international averages in both mathematics and science. Can you elaborate on the factors contributing to this success?
**Dr.Al Hashemi:** we believe several factors have contributed to this success. firstly, the unwavering support of His Highness Sheikh dr.Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah, has been instrumental in creating a conducive habitat for educational excellence.
Secondly,our teachers are highly qualified and dedicated professionals who are constantly striving to improve their skills and knowledge.
Thirdly, we have a strong curriculum framework that is aligned with international best practices.
we place a high value on parental involvement and collaboration, which plays a crucial role in student success.
**World-Today-News:** TIMSS data often identifies areas for potential improvement. What are some key takeaways from the report that the Sharjah Private Education Authority will be focusing on?
**Dr. Al Hashemi:** The TIMSS report provides valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of our education system. We will be carefully analyzing the data to identify areas where we can further improve.
one area of focus will be on enhancing critical thinking and problem-solving skills in our students. We believe that these skills are essential for success in the 21st century. We will also be working to ensure that all students have access to high-quality STEM education, nonetheless of their background or circumstances.
**World-Today-News:** What are the next steps for the Sharjah Private Education Authority in building upon this achievement and solidifying Sharjah’s position as a leader in education?
**Dr. Al Hashemi:** Our goal is to continue raising the bar for education in Sharjah.
we are committed to:
* **Investing in teacher professional development:** We will continue to provide our teachers with opportunities to learn from international best practices and enhance their skills.
* **Fostering innovation and creativity:** We will encourage schools to implement innovative teaching methods and promote a culture of creativity and innovation.
* **Strengthening partnerships:** We will continue to partner with international organizations and institutions to share best practices and learn from others.
We believe that by working together, we can create a world-class education system that prepares our students for success in the global economy.
**World-Today-News:** Thank you for your time and insights, Dr. Al Hashemi.
**Dr. Al Hashemi:** It’s my pleasure. We are committed to making Sharjah a hub for educational excellence, and we are confident that our schools will continue to achieve great things.
