Outstanding contributions of Abu Dhabi's education sector shine at ADEK Awards ceremony
11 June 2025 22:10
AMEINAH ALZEYOUDI (ABU DHABI)In a vibrant celebration of educational achievement and innovation, the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK), honoured winners of the second edition of the ADEK Awards on Wednesday.The award, spanning 30 categories, acknowledged outstanding contributions across the emirate's education sector, including teachers, programmes, and institutions that exemplify excellence and a forward-looking approach in line with ADEK's strategic vision.With over 500 submissions and a total prize pool of Dh7 million, this year's awards showcased both the depth and diversity of the educational initiatives taking place in Abu Dhabi.Speaking to Aletihad, Mariam Al Hallami, Executive Director of Early Education at ADEK, emphasised the evolution of the awards."This year, we expanded the categories to include critical emerging areas such as AI integration, anti-bullying initiatives, inclusion and wellbeing, and Arabic and reading programmes," Al Hallami said.Each submission underwent a rigorous review process conducted by expert panels tailored to specific topics, she continued."One of the most exciting outcomes was how schools responded to these new categories," Al Hallami noted. "Once they saw the potential recognition, many schools ramped up their efforts, launching new programmes and refining existing ones, particularly around AI and student wellbeing."The award journey spanned approximately three months, beginning with open submissions and followed by detailed assessments."The awards are not just about celebrating end results. They serve as a catalyst for innovation and improvement in education. They encourage schools to reflect on their practices and to strive for measurable impact," Al Hallami added.In addition to the awards, ADEK is fostering student engagement in technology through summer and winter camps focused on AI, and initiatives like 42 Abu Dhabi provide further training and exposure for young innovators.One of the institutions recognised for its holistic approach to education is the British International School Abu Dhabi.Principal Alan Cocker highlighted the importance of community involvement and parental engagement."We believe in listening first," he said. "Our school uses a 'You Said, We Did' model to incorporate parent feedback into decision-making. We run regular workshops, coffee mornings, and language classes to ensure parents feel empowered and included," Cocker told Aletihad.He emphasised that true educational success involves a partnership between the school and families, particularly during pivotal moments such as transitioning into school, selecting academic pathways, or navigating personal challenges.
"We don't just deliver decisions to families; we walk the journey with them," he said. "This is their school too, and it needs to feel like a safe, inclusive space for everyone."
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