Latest news with #GEMSEducation
Zawya
2 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
GEMS Education secures strategic investment from Bank Muscat's Izdihar Real Estate Fund for flagship GEMS School of Research and Innovation
Dubai, UAE: GEMS Education is pleased to announce that the Izdihar Real Estate Fund, managed by Bank Muscat, the leading financial services provider in the Sultanate of Oman, will invest in the real estate of GEMS' upcoming flagship British curriculum school, GEMS School of Research and Innovation in Dubai Sports City. Scheduled to open in August 2025, the state-of-the-art campus is being developed at a cost of USD 100 million. Strategically located in the heart of premium residential communities, the school has already seen strong early enrolments, reflecting continued robust demand for quality education in Dubai. The school brings together world-class teachers, the latest AI technologies, and unmatched facilities to reimagine education. 'We are delighted to welcome Bank Muscat's Izdihar Real Estate Fund as a strategic partner in this landmark project,' said Dino Varkey, Group Chief Executive Officer, GEMS Education. 'Their investment underlines the strength of our education platform, our continued focus on high-quality infrastructure, and our confidence in Dubai as a leading global education hub.' Khalifa Abdullah Al Hatmi, Deputy General Manager, Investment Banking and Capital Markets, Bank Muscat, said: 'We are pleased to partner with GEMS Education, a recognised leader in private education, through this investment in GEMS School of Research and Innovation, Dubai. 'This investment through our Izdihar Fund aligns with our long-term strategy of supporting essential community infrastructure and generating sustainable value for our investors. Education remains a resilient and essential asset class, and we are pleased to contribute to a project that will serve generations of students.' Ovais Chhotani, Chief Financial officer, GEMS education, said: 'Our partnership with Bank Muscat reflects a growing institutional interest in the education sector. This investment reinforces GEMS Education's commitment to expanding its network of world-class learning environments in the region and continuing our long history of investing in state-of-the-art facilities offering innovative and immersive learning experiences for our students.' CoReal Partners acted as the M&A advisor, while Eversheds Sutherland led the legal negotiations on behalf of GEMS Education. Baker McKenzie advised Bank Muscat on the transaction. About GEMS Education GEMS Education is one of the oldest and largest K-12 private education providers in the world and a trusted and highly regarded choice for quality education in the Middle East and North Africa region. As a company founded in the UAE in 1959, it holds an unparalleled track record of providing diverse curricula and educational choices to all socio-economic means. Having started with a single school run from a private home in Dubai, GEMS remains a family business to this day. Its inspiring Founder, Sunny Varkey, and his son, Dino Varkey, who is Group Chief Executive Officer, are responsible for providing vision, insight, and strategy across the organisation. Every day, GEMS has the privilege of educating students from over 176 countries through its owned and managed schools globally. And through its growing network, as well as charitable contributions, it is fulfilling the GEMS vision of putting a quality education within the reach of every learner. Every year, students graduating from GEMS schools progress to the world's best universities. Over the past five years, GEMS students have been accepted into over 1,050 universities in 53 countries including all eight Ivy League universities in the US and all 24 Russell Group universities and colleges in the UK. About Bank Muscat and the Izdihar Real Estate Fund Established in 1982, Bank Muscat is the Sultanate of Oman's leading financial institution, offering a broad spectrum of services across corporate banking, retail banking, investment banking, treasury, private banking and asset management. The Bank, with assets of more than USD 36 billion in 2025, has the largest network in Oman, exceeding 190 branches distributed across various governorates. Izdihar Real Estate Fund is the first and among the largest real estate investment trust (REIT) type of fund established in Oman and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. It was set up in December 2015, with the objective to generate sustainable and attractive long term returns to investors. The Fund manages assets under management (AUM) worth more than USD 230 million, with a strong track record of generating returns to investors since its inception.
bnok24
6 days ago
- Business
- bnok24
First School Management (FSM) by GEMS Education signs strategic partnership with Spark Education Platform (SEP) to launch GEMS-branded schools in KSA and Bahrain
First School Management (FSM), the schools advisory initiative by GEMS Education, has signed its first intellectual property agreement with Spark Education Platform (SEP) to launch the GEMS brand in selected schools in Saudi Arabia and Bahrain SEP is one of the fastest growing K-12 regional school operators. Its portfolio comprises four schools with a capacity surpassing 10,000 students and targeting to grow to over 20 schools with 20,000 enrolled students spreading across KSA and the GCC over the coming five years It is owned by the Saudi Education Fund (SEF), which is managed by EFG Hermes, an EFG Holding company and the leading investment bank in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) The partnership represents an important step in FSM's mission to share GEMS Education's 66 years of expertise in delivering outstanding educational outcomes to around half a million students worldwide, who have graduated from its schools As part of the long-term contract, FSM will provide a focused suite of services under a licensing arrangement to support SEP's operatorship of the GEMS-branded schools. The implementation of these services will play a crucial role in ensuring that the new schools adhere to the high standards synonymous with GEMS Education and safeguarding its long-standing global reputation Sunny Varkey, Chairman and Founder of GEMS Education and the Varkey Foundation, said: 'Our vision has always been to make world-class education accessible to as many students as possible. The launch of First School Management is a natural extension of this commitment, and this partnership with Spark Education Platform is the first of many. We are seeing strong global demand for our expertise and are excited about the opportunities ahead as we continue to support schools in delivering outstanding education in diverse international contexts Karim Moussa, Co-CEO of EFG Hermes, an EFG Holding company, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, commenting: 'After our great success story in Egypt, I am honored to expand our partnership with First School Management into Saudi Arabia and Bahrain as key GCC markets with significant demand for new high-quality K-12 education capacities Ahmed Wahby, CEO of Spark Education Platform (SEP), said: 'This partnership with First School Management and GEMS Education marks an exciting milestone in our mission to redefine educational excellence in Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and beyond 'By leveraging our expertise and GEMS Education's global reputation, we are committed to delivering world-class learning experiences that empower students, inspire innovation, and elevate educational standards across the region. Together, we are not just building and transforming schools – we are shaping a brighter future of education The framework agreement between FSM and SEP reflects a shared commitment to excellence in education. It marks just the beginning of GEMS' broader efforts to bring First School Management expertise to schools worldwide FSM, which launched in November 2024, is built upon the core values that have made GEMS Education a global leader in education. FSM mobilises multi-disciplinary teams of experts who provide hands-on support to schools, helping them navigate challenges and achieve operational success By combining international best practices with locally relevant strategies, FSM ensures that partner schools' benefit from a wealth of knowledge gained over decades of experience from the family-run group, which was originated by two teachers and now teaches 200,000 students worldwide every day Google News تابعونا على تابعونا على تطبيق نبض
Khaleej Times
23-05-2025
- Khaleej Times
UAE: Educators call for training teachers as AI becomes mandatory subject from next academic year
School leaders across the UAE are viewing the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into public school curricula — from kindergarten through Grade 12 — as a 'transformational opportunity' for both students and educators. Beginning in the 2025-26 academic year, AI will be introduced as a formal subject in public schools nationwide. Veteran educators have praised the Ministry of Education's (MoE) initiative, emphasising that embedding AI in the curriculum will equip students with essential skills and mindsets for the future. Baz Nijjar, Baz Nijjar, vice president – Education Technology and Digital Innovation at GEMS Education, said, 'It's a great initiative. The government and the region are always striving to be at the forefront of innovation — constantly exploring current demands, skills, and needs. He emphasised AI, like any other skill set, is evolving based on our understanding of the world around us. 'In the early years, children may be introduced to specific terminology and concepts. It's more about how we adapt the latest skill requirements to suit their developmental stage. 'For instance, while young children in kindergarten may not use AI tools directly, they still need to develop foundational skills like prompting and questioning — which go hand in hand. It's about aligning these broader, common requirements with age-appropriate learning that supports their personal, holistic, and individual development. This includes nurturing their ability to question, distinguish between real and fictional content, and to grasp basic technological concepts, as they're increasingly exposed to such ideas early on,' he added. Stages of learning Under the new initiative, each stage of learning in public schools will be thoughtfully designed to match students' developmental levels. In kindergarten, children will explore digital ideas through stories, visuals, and play. In early grades they'll start to compare human and machine abilities and build digital thinking skills. In middle school years, they'll dive deeper into AI design, bias in algorithms, and ethics. By high school, students will be tackling real-world problems and learning advanced AI concepts like command engineering. Mohammed Ali Kottakulam, principal, The Central School Dubai, said, 'Many (private) schools have already implemented AI into their curriculum, starting with the basics right from primary school, and the advanced curriculum is followed in middle and higher classes. I think the decision is praiseworthy and will benefit and empower the young generation for future requirements.' Other principals of private institutions also pointed out that for many grades the AI subject is already integrated into existing school schedules. Principal, Abhilasha Singh, Shining Star International, said, 'Schools are introducing a progressive AI curriculum from Grades 6 to 10 to equip students with essential future-ready skills. In the middle school years, learners explore AI basics through interactive activities like games and storytelling, covering topics such as data, NLP, and computer vision, along with ethics like bias and privacy. 'By Grades 9 and 10, AI is offered as a CBSE skill subject, with students learning about neural networks, machine learning, and real-world applications. A balanced 50-mark theory and 50-mark practical assessment ensures both conceptual understanding and hands-on experience — preparing students for careers in AI and beyond,' she added. Focus on teacher training However, educators emphasised one key area that requires attention is teacher training. Neetha Shetty, Principal, Al Diyafah High School, said, 'To implement this curriculum meaningfully, our educators must be empowered with the right knowledge, tools, and ongoing support. 'AI education should be introduced gradually from primary school, with age-appropriate progression into middle and high school. However, given the rapid pace of technological change, the current cohort of high school students has not had the opportunity to go through the gradual progression. Therefore, they must engage with AI education immediately to remain competitive and adequately prepared for the evolving job market.' Shetty explained AI concepts are being thoughtfully integrated into the school curriculum, ensuring that students are not only aware of emerging technologies but are also equipped to use them responsibly and effectively. 'Simultaneously, we are investing in continuous professional development for our teachers — empowering them through targeted training sessions and cultivating a mindset that embraces AI as a tool for enhancing teaching and learning. This dual approach ensures that both students and educators are well-prepared to thrive in an AI-driven world,' she added.
Zawya
20-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
GEMS Education to lead the future of AI in schools supported by Microsoft
Bespoke AI agents, fluency programmes, and curriculum integration underway 5,000+ students and educators already trained in real-world AI application DUBAI, UAE: GEMS Education is rolling out custom-built AI agents across classrooms, embedding AI skills into all major curricula, and expanding staff and student training programmes as part of its evolving collaboration with Microsoft. In line with the UAE's bold course to embed AI into its national school curriculum, GEMS' latest move means practical tools and AI fluency are now reaching every school in its network to deliver a transformative AI-powered learning experience for all students. GEMS first announced its pioneering initiative to train students, teachers, and school leaders in AI in July 2024. Today, that collaboration with Microsoft has matured into a system-wide strategy – one that positions GEMS not merely as a participant in the AI revolution, but as a driving force in shaping what AI-powered education can, and should, look like. Dino Varkey, Group Chief Executive Officer, GEMS Education, said: 'Our partnership with Microsoft positions us at the forefront of AI-powered learning. We recognise that technology is no longer an accessory to education – it is the force reshaping it. That's why we are unwavering in our mission to empower every educator and student with the tools, knowledge, and mindset needed to thrive in a world driven by AI. 'Through advanced training, enriched curricula, and purposeful innovation, we are preparing our learners not just to participate in the future, but to define it. Our vision is to harness the full potential of AI to transform education, unlock opportunity, and inspire the next generation of creators, leaders, and changemakers.' Real-World Impact GEMS and Microsoft are working in lockstep to integrate AI across the teaching, learning, and leadership spectrum. The collaboration includes: Expanded access to Microsoft AI platforms across GEMS schools Ongoing collaboration on the development of AI-powered learning agents and content Leadership training using Microsoft Copilot to streamline workflows and drive strategic decisions Structured AI fluency programmes for all teachers, support staff, and students aged 13+ Use of Microsoft Copilot by school leaders to automate admin and focus on pedagogy AI concepts woven into British, IB, American, and Indian curricula, with a focus on creativity, ethics, and problem-solving Naim Yazbeck, General Manager of Microsoft UAE, stated: 'At Microsoft, we aim to responsibly leverage AI to enhance education and support the country's leadership in equipping students with relevant skills, evident in the government's recent announcement on introducing AI skills into the national curriculum. 'In collaboration with GEMS Education, we are establishing a new benchmark in AI-driven education and preparing the next generation for a rapidly changing world, while ensuring high standards of security and data protection.' Lisa Crausby, Group Chief Education Officer, GEMS Education, said: 'We are setting a new standard in AI integration by embedding AI fluency across all subjects, with a strong emphasis on transferable skills, ethical use, and cultural relevance, including advancing AI education in Arabic. Our comprehensive AI training programme equips teaching staff and students with the fluency and competency needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving world. 'Through the leadership of our AI Excellence Fellows, we are not only innovating in teaching and learning but also redefining assessment strategies to better support student mastery and personalised progress. This commitment ensures our pedagogical practices remain ahead of the curve and truly distinguish GEMS as a pioneer in future-focused, inclusive education.' Bespoke AI Tools for the Classroom GEMS is developing custom AI agents to support differentiated instruction, formative assessment, and lesson planning. Early pilots are running across selected schools, with phased rollout beginning in the 2025-26 academic year. AI agents will be embedded into subject-specific tools, co-developed with Microsoft's education specialists. Inclusive AI Tools To ensure all learners benefit from AI, GEMS is leading the development of Arabic-language AI tools. Projects include AI-assisted Arabic translation, content creation, and Minecraft-based language modules, with cultural relevance and linguistic inclusivity central to the programme's design. Scaling AI Skills Across the Ecosystem The Microsoft AI Skills Initiative is now embedded across the GEMS network. More than 5,000 students and staff have already begun their training, with plans in place to extend access to families and the wider GEMS community in the future. In addition, GEMS is exploring and integrating transferable knowledge of AI fluency across all year groups to enable even the youngest learners to acquire AI-related skills. GEMS School of Research and Innovation (SRI) Opening in August 2025, the flagship GEMS School of Research and Innovation will be a living lab for education innovation. The state-of-the-art campus will be home to AI/XR immersive learning spaces and student-led tech incubation. It will host research partnerships, educator training hubs, and a full-stack digital ecosystem built with Microsoft. Baz Nijjar, Vice President – Education Technology and Digital Innovation, GEMS Education, said: 'We are proud to lead the way in redefining education through responsible and innovative AI integration. As market leaders for innovation in education, we're embedding AI fluency across all our schools – not just as a technical skill, but as a foundation for ethical, purposeful learning. 'We are developing bespoke AI agents to enhance curriculum delivery, personalise assessment, and support every learner, while ensuring students continue to build essential human qualities such as empathy, critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration. SRI will exemplify this balanced vision, bringing together world-class teaching, cutting-edge facilities, and student-led innovation to set new standards in AI-driven, values-based education.' GEMS and Microsoft are now advancing into the next phase of their collaboration, with planned innovations including: A dedicated AI and Emerging Technologies curriculum Scaled use of AI agents across classrooms and subjects Joint innovation projects with universities, startups, and industry leaders AI Ethics and Safety resources for students, parents, and educators About GEMS Education GEMS Education is one of the oldest and largest K-12 private education providers in the world and a trusted and highly regarded choice for quality education in the Middle East and North Africa region. As a company founded in the UAE in 1959, it holds an unparalleled track record of providing diverse curricula and educational choices to all socio-economic means. Having started with a single school run from a private home in Dubai, GEMS remains a family business to this day. Its inspiring Founder, Sunny Varkey, and his son, Dino Varkey, who is Group Chief Executive Officer, are responsible for providing vision, insight, and strategy across the organisation. Every day, GEMS has the privilege of educating students from over 176 countries through its owned and managed schools globally. And through its growing network, as well as charitable contributions, it is fulfilling the GEMS vision of putting a quality education within the reach of every learner. Every year, students graduating from GEMS schools progress to the world's best universities. Over the past five years, GEMS students have been accepted into over 1,050 universities in 53 countries including all eight Ivy League universities in the US and all 24 Russell Group universities and colleges in the UK. For further information about GEMS Education, visit or contact: Leen Haffar, Senior Account Executive, Four
Zawya
19-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Pioneer Scholar Programme launched at GEMS School of Research and Innovation
Designed to build a legacy of leadership, purpose, and global impact First cohort will be selected by 1 June ahead of the flagship school's August 2025 opening DUBAI, UAE – GEMS Education today launched the Pioneer Scholars Programme, a transformational new scholarship initiative at its flagship GEMS School of Research and Innovation (SRI), opening in August this year. Open to students entering Years 5 to 8 in the 2025–26 academic year, the programme is designed to identify, develop and continue to support outstanding young students who demonstrate not only exceptional ability, but also the values of curiosity, courage, creativity, and contribution. The first cohort of Pioneer Scholars will be selected by 1 June, with applications now open and a fast-tracked assessment window in place to support the programme's pilot launch. Rooted in SRI's vision of purposeful excellence, the Pioneer Scholars Programme mirrors the legacy-building scholarship frameworks of the world's most revered independent schools, offering tailored pathways in academics, the arts, technology and innovation, and elite sport. Scholars will receive not just financial support, but also structured mentorship, access to exclusive masterclasses and events, and a platform for national and global recognition. Sunny Varkey, Chairman and Founder of GEMS Education, said: 'At GEMS Education, we have always believed that every child has greatness within them. The Pioneer Scholars Programme is our way of shining a light on that greatness – of nurturing brilliance, raising aspirations, and giving the leaders of tomorrow the opportunities they deserve today.' The programme comprises four main scholarship categories: Academic Excellence: Recognising high achievers in mathematics, sciences, humanities, literature, and languages. Creative Arts: Celebrating originality in music, drama, dance, fine arts, and creative writing. Technology & Innovation: Honouring students with talents in robotics, AI, software development, engineering design, and sustainable tech. Sports Leadership: Supporting athletes who demonstrate exceptional ability, perseverance, and team spirit across multiple disciplines. Each scholarship is offered in one of two tiers – Emerging Scholars (Years 5-6) and Distinguished Scholars (Years 7-8) – and is backed by a robust review framework led by the Pioneer Scholars Council. In addition to academic performance and demonstrable talent, successful applicants must undergo a formal multi-step selection process, including personal statements, portfolios or performances, assessments, and interviews. James Monaghan, CEO and Founding Principal of GEMS School of Research and Innovation, said: 'To be named a Pioneer Scholar is to be recognised not only for what you have achieved, but for the impact you are yet to make. This is a powerful statement of belief in our students' futures – and we are proud to be the school that helps shape them.' Pioneer Scholars are expected to serve as role models within the school and wider community, upholding the values and ethos of SRI and GEMS Education at all times. The enrichment opportunities available to scholars include: Personalised mentorship Access to innovation labs, elite sports clinics, and creative showcases Annual gala celebration Public speaking and leadership development Opportunities to represent SRI and GEMS on global platforms Opening in August 2025, GEMS School of Research and Innovation (SRI) is the most ambitious new school in the GEMS portfolio to date – combining exceptional teaching, cutting-edge facilities, and a global outlook to prepare students for lives of purpose and impact. From its innovative curriculum to its pioneering programmes, SRI is designed to set a new benchmark in English curriculum education both regionally and globally. Each Pioneer Scholar will receive a bespoke lapel pin and certificate of conferment, and be formally recorded in the SRI Book of Scholars – a living testament to excellence that will be built on year after year. The inaugural 2025 cycle will culminate with the first official cohort announcement on or before 1 June 2025, ahead of a full annual cycle beginning September 2025. Plans are already in motion to expand the programme to include Sixth Form scholarships and to establish a dedicated endowment fund to support its long-term growth. To learn more about the Pioneer Scholars Programme or to apply, please visit About GEMS Education Every day, GEMS Education has the privilege of educating more than 200,000 students from more than 176 countries through its owned and managed schools around the world. With nearly half a million alumni who in turn have influenced countless millions of lives, GEMS has been recognised as one of the most impactful companies in any sector globally. Founded in the UAE in 1959 and now the largest and most respected K-12 private education group in the world, it holds an unparalleled track record of providing diverse curricula and educational opportunities to families from all socio-economic backgrounds. What began as a single school in a private home in Dubai remains a family business to this day. Its inspiring Chairman and Founder, Sunny Varkey, and his sons, Dino Varkey, the Group Chief Executive Officer, and Jay Varkey, the Deputy Group Chief Executive Officer, continue to provide vision, insight and strategic leadership across the organisation. Through its growing school network and philanthropic initiatives, GEMS is committed to fulfilling its vision of putting a quality education within the reach of every learner, everywhere. Each year, GEMS students graduate to join the world's leading universities. Over the past five years alone, they have been accepted into over 1,050 universities in 53 countries – including all eight Ivy League institutions in the United States and all 24 Russell Group universities in the United Kingdom. GEMS alumni have gone on to successful careers in all sectors around the world, including a large proportion reaching CEO and C-suite status. For further information about GEMS Education, visit or contact: Leen Haffar, Senior Account Executive, Four
