Latest news with #ADEK
Gulf Insider
2 days ago
- Business
- Gulf Insider
New Policy: Abu Dhabi Schools Can Halt Operations For Up To 3 Years
The Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) has confirmed that private schools in the emirate may temporarily suspend operations for a minimum of one academic year and up to a maximum of three academic years, subject to prior approval from the Department. The revised school licensing policy, now available on ADEK's official website, provides detailed guidance on the temporary closure process and associated responsibilities. According to the policy, any school intending to temporarily close must submit a formal request addressing four key components: The reason for closure The proposed date of closure (which must coincide with the end of the academic year) Proposed arrangements to facilitate the transfer of students to other schools Submission of the request no less than six months before the academic year concludes Once ADEK grants approval, the school is required to inform all stakeholders—including staff and parents—within seven days. If a school remains closed for longer than three academic years, its licence will be automatically revoked. To resume operations, it must apply for a new licence. Permanent closure is also permitted, provided the school submits a formal cancellation request to the Department. Schools granted approval for temporary closure must meet the following eight obligations: Fulfil all legal and contractual obligations towards staff, parents, students, and external parties Obtain all required legal and financial clearances Settle outstanding dues to staff in accordance with contract terms and the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation's regulations Refund any unearned fees to parents Remove any transfer restrictions on students through the Electronic Student Information System (eSIS) Cancel staff work permits via the Private Schools Staff System (PASS) at least 20 working days prior to closure Submit all student records and files to ADEK within 20 working days of the closure date Provide parents with their children's academic reports and transfer certificates In the case of voluntary permanent closure, schools must formally request the cancellation of their licence in accordance with ADEK's policy. If a school wishes to resume operations after a temporary suspension, it must reapply and fulfil all licensing requirements. In instances of non-compliance, ADEK may enforce a forced closure and revoke the school's licence, as stipulated in its compliance policy. As outlined in Article (8) of the Private Schools Regulatory Framework—introduced under Executive Council Resolution No. (26) of 2013—ADEK issues three categories of licences for private schools: A Provisional Licence may be issued to new schools upon submission of a complete and compliant application, in line with the Private Schools Policy and Guidelines Manual. This licence is valid for one academic year and may be renewed once, subject to the school's adherence to its approved operational plan and any additional conditions imposed by ADEK. Schools seeking to renew their Provisional Licence must apply at least 60 days before the licence expires. ADEK may inspect the school to assess its progress. Notably, the provisional period cannot extend beyond one academic year from the commencement of educational activities. This updated policy came into effect in the first term of the 2024/2025 academic year. Full compliance is expected by the beginning of the 2025/2026 academic year. Schools are required to obtain a General Licence within two years of starting operations. This licence, valid for two years, is granted to schools that have undergone inspection and received a minimum rating of 'acceptable.' Renewal applications must be submitted at least 60 days prior to expiry, and ADEK reserves the right to conduct inspections as part of the review process. An Accredited Licence may be issued following a comprehensive inspection and evaluation by ADEK or an authorised third party. To qualify, a school must meet ADEK's minimum accreditation standards. This type of licence is valid for up to five years. The Director General of ADEK is authorised to revoke any type of school licence—Provisional, General, or Accredited—at any time if the institution fails to comply with the requirements set out in Executive Council Resolution No. (26).
Gulf Today
2 days ago
- Business
- Gulf Today
Abu Dhabi private schools can suspend operations for up to 3 years after providing valid reasons
Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) has affirmed that private schools are permitted to temporarily suspend their operations for a period of at least one academic year and up to three academic years, provided they obtain approval from the department. ADEK clarified that schools opting for temporary closure (1-3 years) must adhere to the requirements outlined in the department's licencing guide. Schools exceeding the maximum temporary suspension period of three academic years will have their licences automatically revoked by ADEK. In such cases, schools must reapply for a licence if they wish to resume operations. Regarding permanent voluntary closure and licence revocation, schools have the right to cease operations permanently after submitting a request. ADEK emphasised that schools seeking temporary or permanent closure must submit an application meeting four requirements: the reason for closure, the proposed closure date, arrangements to facilitate student transfers to other schools, and submission of the application at least six months before the end of the academic year. Additionally, schools must also notify relevant parties, employees, and parents within seven days of receiving ADEK's approval. ADEK outlined additional closure requirements including fulfilling all legal and contractual obligations toward employees, parents, students, and external parties, obtaining legal and financial clearances, paying all dues to employees in accordance with contract terms and Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation requirements, refunding any unearned fees collected from parents, lifting transfer restrictions on the Student Data System (eSIS) and cancel work permits for school staff on the Private School Staff Data System (PASS) at least 20 working days before closure, submitting all student records and files to ADEK within 20 working days of closure and providing relevant student reports and transfer certificates to parents. For permanent voluntary closure, schools must apply for licence revocation in line with this policy. ADEK further explained that under the licencing policy, schools permitted to resume operations must reapply for a licence whose approval depends on the school meeting ADEK's requirements. In cases of forced closure and licence revocation, ADEK may require a school to cease operations in accordance with its policy, leading to licence cancellation. The department affirmed that this policy came into effect at the start of the 2024/2025 academic year (first semester).
Al Etihad
21-05-2025
- Sport
- Al Etihad
33,000+ students participate in 4th Abu Dhabi Sports Championship
21 May 2025 13:44 ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)The fourth edition of the Abu Dhabi Sports Championship for Schools and Universities has marked its biggest and most successful season yet, with more than 33,000 students from 389 schools and 13 universities across Abu Dhabi, Al Ain Region, and Al Dhafra competed across 18 sports disciplines through a series of competitions held from November 2024 to May closing awards ceremony, hosted by the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) and Abu Dhabi Sports Council (ADSC), in partnership with the Ministry of Education (MoE), was attended by the leadership from across the three entities. Outstanding schools were recognised for their participation and performance through a dedicated championship leaderboard featuring public, private, and charter schools. Over 500 students were celebrated as part of the medal ceremony as well, recognised for their performance and their sportsmanship and perseverance throughout the flagship event welcomed more than 10,000 attendees, including families, sports enthusiasts, and members of the wider community. Visitors experienced student competitions and enjoyed student-led entertainment, live performances, and a fan zone featuring tech-powered challenges and interactive Bashaer AlMatrooshi, Executive Director – Talent Enablement Sector at the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK), said: 'This championship reflects our unwavering commitment to nurturing student potential through sports." He added, "With over 33,000 participants, this was our biggest and most inspiring edition yet. We are proud of every student who competed, and especially those who earned recognition for their talent and determination. These students represent the best of Abu Dhabi's future.'For his part, Talal Mustafa Al Hashemi, Executive Director of the Events Sector at Abu Dhabi Sports Council (ADSC), said: "The Abu Dhabi Sports Championship reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting the school and university sports ecosystem, which is the foundation for building a promising generation of athletes. Al Hashemi further added, "The record-breaking participation and strong engagement this season confirm the tremendous potential that exists among our youth. We are proud to partner with ADEK and the Ministry of Education on this pioneering initiative that promotes a culture of sports among students and provides a platform to discover and nurture talent that will serve the future of sports in the UAE." The championship comes as part of ADEK's broader talent development program. It brings to life the vision behind ADEK's Physical Education and School Sports Policy; to foster a culture of activity and well-being in schools through a comprehensive PE curriculum, a physical literacy framework, and active parent engagement.
Al Etihad
06-05-2025
- Sport
- Al Etihad
Abu Dhabi Sports Championship to conclude year-long school season on May 10
6 May 2025 09:26 ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD) The fourth edition of the Abu Dhabi Sports Championship for Schools & Universities will conclude in a thrilling finale on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at ADNEC Marina Hall, following record participation of 33,000 students from across Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra. This flagship annual event will bring together top talent for the final competitions in six sports disciplines: Jiu jitsu, judo, futsal, archery, fencing, and laser to families, educators, sports fans, and the wider community, the event promises a vibrant celebration featuring an athlete parade, special closing awards ceremony, and thrilling activities for all ages — from interactive zones and tech-powered challenges to competitions, live performances, and a buzzing fan zone with food, entertainment and fun activities for all ages. Hosted by the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) in partnership with the Abu Dhabi Sports Council (ADSC) and collaboration with the Ministry of Education (MoE), the 2024/25 season expanded to feature 18 sports disciplines highlighting ongoing efforts to promote student wellbeing, leadership, and personal growth through physical activity and inclusive participation. Twelve of these disciplines have already concluded their finals, with the remaining six set to take place this weekend during the championship championship comes as part of ADEK's broader talent development programme, providing student-athletes with opportunities to be scouted by local and international experts. It also helps open pathways to competitive sports and scholarships aligned with students' academic and athletic goals. Top performers will also be selected for elite All-Star teams representing the UAE in football, basketball, table tennis, and badminton at both national and international by a common goal, the year-long championship brought to life the vision behind ADEK's Physical Education and School Sports Policy, which aims to foster a culture of activity and wellbeing in schools through a comprehensive PE curriculum, a physical literacy framework, and active parent engagement. The policy empowers students of all abilities to stay active throughout the school day, participate in community competitions, and benefit from qualified
Mid East Info
02-05-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
H.E. Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah
Q1 2025 Revenues up 2% YoY, reaching AED 179.7 million driven by new contract wins. Q1 2025 Net Profit up 2% YoY to AED 115.3 million, on the back of consistent revenue growth and cost optimization. 90% of FY 2024 Net Profit distributed in dividends, totaling AED 402.8 million and yielding a strong ~ 10% dividend yield with AED 135 million (~ 10 fils per share) distributed to free float shareholders, and an equivalent amount guaranteed for FY 2025 reflecting Alef Education's disciplined growth strategy. 3-year ADEK contract extension secures UAE core revenue through 2033. New contract wins with growth drive momentum across UAE, Indonesia, Senegal and beyond. Miqyas Al Dhad reaches 86% completion and is on track for Q3 2025 launch, unlocking a new revenue stream in Arabic language literacy. Alef Education Holding Plc (the 'Company' or 'Alef Education' or 'ADX: ALEFEDT'), an award-winning AI-powered learning solutions provider redefining the educational experience for K-12 students, based in Abu Dhabi, today announced its financial results for the three-month period ending 31 March 2025. This marks the Company's fourth earnings announcement since its debut on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange ('ADX') in June 2024. It also follows the successful distribution of a AED 199.2 million cash dividend for H2 2024 in April 2025, as approved during Alef Education's Annual General Meeting ('AGM'), bringing the total FY 2024 dividend to AED 402.8 million, representing 90% of the Company's full-year Net Profit. Geoffrey Alphonso, Chief Executive Officer of Alef Education, stated: 'As we move through 2025, we're building strong momentum across both our B2G and B2B segments, supported by ongoing investment in innovation and global expansion. Our Q1 2025 results, marked by steady revenue growth and improved efficiency, underscore the strength of our long-term strategy and disciplined execution. With expanding presence in markets like Indonesia and continued progress in the UAE, Alef Education remains focused on transforming education through AI and delivering meaningful value across the education ecosystem and to all our stakeholders.' Strong and Profitable Q1 Growth Builds on the FY 2024 Momentum Reinforcing its position as a trusted partner for governments and private schools in the UAE and globally, Alef Education continues to see strong demand for its suite of innovative, bespoke education solutions. In Q1 2025, the Company reported Revenues of AED 179.7 million, marking a 2% year-on-year ('YoY') increase. This was primarily based on the stable contributions from the core UAE portfolio, Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge ('ADEK') contract, and further driven by robust growth in other business and government contracts outside of ADEK, locally and internationally. Alef Education continued to execute on its growth strategy during Q1 2025, with a strong focus on revenue diversification. EBITDA rose 2% to AED 132.8 million in Q1 2025, with a market-leading margin of 74%. Net profit reached AED 115.3 million, reflecting a 2% YoY increase, supported by consistent revenue growth and a strong 64% margin, underscoring Alef Education's ongoing commitment to cost discipline and operational optimization. Alef Education's strong, unlevered balance sheet, solid financial foundation, and robust cash flow generation continue to support its growth strategy. With AED 402.6 million in cash, no debt and a low liabilities-to-assets ratio of 18%, the Company is well-positioned to fund growth ambitions, while sustaining consistent dividend distributions. A Core Foundation Further Enhanced by Strategic Growth & Strategic Alliances The Company's recent contract extension with ADEK provides significant revenue visibility until 2033, provisioning for a minimum of 80,000 students with a fixed fee per student. While the ADEK contract constitutes the core of Alef Education's business, the Company is actively pursuing an opportunistic global growth strategy, particularly considering high-margin and value accretive opportunities. To support its goals of geographic expansion, revenue diversification, and customer and product portfolio growth, Alef Education secured a substantial pipeline of high-value leads across both public and private sectors in the MENA region and internationally during Q1 2025. Supporting its focus on deepening public sector partnerships, Alef Education marks expansion into Morocco in support of the Education Reform Plan 2022–2026, and progress on the MOU with Nahdet Misr to collaborate across the GCC, Levant, and North Africa. Alef Education strengthened its footprint in Indonesia in Q1 2025, aligning with national digital education goals through high-level ministerial talks aimed at long-term collaboration. Strategic partnerships were also forged to advance human capital development and equip students with future-ready skills. Additionally, the Company engaged in ongoing strategic dialogue with the Senegalese government about a potential long-term collaboration, following the visit of Senegal's President to Alef Education in November 2024. Continuous Innovation Transforming Learning Outcomes To meet rising demand for its expanding product portfolio, Alef Education is developing new variants of Alef Pathways and enhancing its Arabic learning offerings with additional content and resources. As part of its innovation agenda, Alef Education partnered with MetaMetrics® to develop Miqyas Al Dhad , the region's first Arabic reading scale aimed at improving literacy for Grade 1–12 Arabic speakers. Created in collaboration with regional ministries, the initiative supports Alef Education's growth strategy by opening new, sustainable revenue streams in Arabic language proficiency. Now 86% complete, Miqyas Al Dhad has engaged over 110,000 students across nine countries, with seven MOUs signed to date. The launch is on track for Q3 2025. Consistent Shareholder Returns and Significant Value Creation Beyond driving growth, Alef Education's strong financial foundation allows the Company to deliver sustained value to shareholders through a transparent and robust dividend policy. In line with its IPO commitment, Alef Education guarantees a minimum annual dividend payout of AED 135 million to its 20% free-float investors for FY2024 and FY2025, distributed semi-annually. Alef Education holds a leading position in the UAE's K–12 EdTech space, deeply embedded in the national education framework via ADEK. With guaranteed payments from ADEK, the Company enjoys stable, predictable cash flows, enabling consistent dividend payouts with an attractive yield driving long-term shareholder value. Following the Annual General Meeting ('AGM') held on 27 March 2025, Alef Education successfully distributed a cash dividend of AED 199.2 million for H2 2024 in April 2025. This brought the total FY 2024 dividend payout to AED 402.8 million, representing 90% of the Company's full-year net profit, reflecting ~ 10% dividend yield with AED 135 million (~ 10 fils per share) being distributed to free float shareholders, and an equivalent amount is guaranteed for FY 2025, reflecting Alef Education's disciplined growth strategy. Outlook: Alef Education enters the remainder of 2025 with a strong outlook, supported by long-term government contracts, a growing international presence, and continued innovation. Revenue is expected to witness 3-4% growth in FY 2025 YoY. EBITDA for the year is expected to increase by 8-9%, generating a higher margin of 70% backed by strict cost optimization efforts coupled with revenue growth. Similarly, Net Profit is expected to increase by 6-7% resulting in a strong and consistent margin of 60%. With predictable cash flows and a proven model, Alef Education is uniquely positioned to fuel innovation, scale globally, and lead the next era of digital learning, while sustaining attractive dividends and delivering long-term value to shareholders. AED millions Q1 2025 Q1 2024 % Change Revenues 179.7 176.7 1.7% Total Expenses 56.4 55.7 -1.3% EBITDA* 132.8 130.7 1.6% EBITDA Margin 74% 74% – Net Profit 115.3 113.0 2.0% Net Profit margin 64% 64% – * EBITDA is earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, amortization and lease expenses (interest and depreciation on right of use assets).
