Latest news with #UAE-specific
Gulf Today
15-03-2025
- Gulf Today
556m children could be at risk of being contacted by strangers online: Research
More than half of children have been regularly contacted online by someone they don't know, new research from HMD and Perspectus Global has revealed.1 One in three children has been asked to take conversations to private messaging apps, and nearly 40% have been exposed to harmful online content, including explicit or violent material. The results have emerged from a global survey of 25,000 children and adults in the UK, US, Germany, India, Australia and UAE. When the figure is extrapolated and combined with the latest UN Global population data, it is estimated some 556 million children could be at risk of being contacted by strangers online through their smartphones. These findings highlight an urgent need for change. For too long, parents have faced a difficult choice: either hand their kids a fully-fledged adult smartphone—with all the risks of unrestricted internet, social media pressure, and digital addiction—or keep them disconnected entirely. It's clear that we need a better way forward. That's why HMD is introducing a new category of phones designed with parents for a younger audience. The first of these, the HMD Fusion X1, will debut at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona—a phone built as a 'first step' into the digital world, designed to give teens independence while ensuring parents have the controls they need for peace of mind. Sanmeet Singh Kochhar, Vice President of HMD Global in the AMEA Region said: "At HMD, we recognise that digital safety is a growing concern for parents and children alike. Our commitment goes beyond just selling phones—we are investing in safer digital experiences that align with the values of families worldwide. The launch of the HMD Fusion X1 is part of our vision to provide secure, responsible technology that empowers children while giving parents peace of mind. The findings from our global study reinforce the urgent need for change, and we are proud to take the lead in shaping a safer digital future." For nearly a year, HMD has worked with thousands of parents through The Better Phone Project, developing real solutions for families. Research found that the average age for a child's first smartphone is 11, yet 54% of parents regret giving their child a smartphone too soon. Concerns include reduced physical activity, poor sleep, and increased exposure to online risks. Now, after engaging with parents and teens across 84 countries, HMD is launching two new devices in 2025, starting with the HMD Fusion X1 – a phone that helps kids build healthy digital habits while keeping them safe online. The UAE-specific research reflects broader global trends. A recent international study of nearly 25,000 parents and children revealed: 51% of children worldwide have been contacted online by strangers. One in three has been encouraged to take conversations to private messaging apps. 56% of kids report being insulted or made to feel small online. 40% have been exposed to harmful explicit or violent content. 52% of children feel addicted to their screens. While regulations are tightening worldwide, including in the UAE, parental control solutions remain critical. HMD is responding by creating safer, smarter technology tailored to families' needs.
Khaleej Times
23-02-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Dubai: Educators call for 'play-based' teaching to help students up to 6 years learn Arabic language
Teachers in Dubai are advocating for student-centered and play-based cultural experiences to boost early Arabic language learning. This follows the announcement of a new policy by Dubai's Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) aimed at improving Arabic language education in early childhood settings. The policy requires Arabic language instruction for children from birth to six years old at all private schools and early childhood centers in Dubai. The goal is to promote the use of Arabic in schools and society, fostering pride in Emirati culture, language, and heritage. These changes will take effect in September 2025 for schools that begin their academic year in September and in April 2026 for schools that start in April. Dr Vandana Gandhi, CEO and Founder of British Orchard Nursery, reinforced the vision and said, 'Our curriculum already incorporates Arabic learning through twice-weekly sessions, led by experienced and qualified educators who integrate language with the rich cultural heritage of the UAE. We are proud to have partnered with the Emirates' government, The Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department in Dubai and KHDA to open and operate UAE's first Arabic and Islamic nursery in line with national identity and culture.' She highlighted recognising the diverse linguistic backgrounds of their students, BON differentiates Arabic instruction and Islamic studies for native and non-native speakers. 'For younger learners, Arabic is introduced through play-based activities, songs, and storytelling, fostering early engagement and familiarity with the language.' Gandhi explained in FS1 and FS2, the focus expands to including reading and writing milestones, gradually building foundational literacy skills. Cultural experiences for students 'Our holistic approach extends beyond the classroom, incorporating cultural experiences such as visits to local heritage sites and interactive projects that deepen children's connection to Arabic language and traditions,' she added. As part of innovation, the group has also enhanced its project-based learning approach for the 2024-25 academic year to ensure learning contexts reflect UAE-specific topics and the experiences of young children living here. Others early learning centres (ELC) also welcomed KHDA's phased implementation strategy and aim to further develop the Arabic provision in alignment with the curriculum design standards that KHDA will release. Heba ElKholy, Founder of the Arabic Department at Creative Nest, Deputy Principal, said, 'We focus on building a strong linguistic foundation from an early age, as research shows that children's brains naturally absorb multiple languages when immersed in a rich and engaging environment. This approach nurtures their love for the language, fosters academic readiness, and instills a deep sense of belonging, ensuring that Arabic remains vibrant and relevant in an evolving world.' 'The KHDA will oversee the quality of Arabic learning, continuing the Ministry of Education's (MOE) previous role in setting foundation stage guidelines. Language acquisition in the early years follow universal principles across all curricula. It depends on the amount of time a child is exposed to the language and whether the surrounding environment is rich and enabling. A well-structured approach, where Arabic is naturally integrated into daily interactions, play, and learning experiences, will be key to fostering proficiency and engagement among young learners," said the founder. Ongoing professional development, assessment Experts highlighted ongoing professional development is also key to equipping educators with the skills they need. 'For example, recent phonics workshops saw Arabic and English teachers applying what they learned in their classrooms. The growing availability of Arabic resources shows a commitment to preserving the language, and events promoting Arabic learning at home further support this. Expanding such workshops will help families reinforce Arabic learning, amplifying the impact of the new policy,' added ElKholy. Headteachers stressed, like any other language, Arabic will be measured through ongoing assessments of language acquisition, tracking students' progress in speaking, listening, reading, and writing. This will involve regular observations, formal evaluations, and feedback from educators and parents. Sheela Menon, Principal, Ambassador School Dubai, said, 'The policy states that a standardised end-of-phase assessment targeting sample cohorts will track overall sector improvements in Arabic language development so that appropriate timely interventions and policy changes can inform further decisions. Moreover, schools will develop phase appropriate assessment strategies and track progress to ensure learner-based adaptations as and when required.' Why non-Arabic-speaking expat families prioritise Arabic Meanwhile, non-Arabic speaking expatriate parents believe that being multilingual is beneficial for children, as it will stand them in good stead in the future. Notably, Arabic, spoken by 380 million native and non-native speakers across the Arab world, ranks as the fifth most spoken language globally. Arijit Nandi, father of an eight-year-old, said, 'My son was struggling with Arabic in school as he didn't pick up the language well in his early years. So, we decided to hire a private tutor to help him improve before it's too late. I believe it's essential to learn the language of the country where you're born, raised, or even where you work. It gives you a deeper connection to the culture, a stronger sense of belonging, and a competitive edge for the future. It's more than just a language, it's the key to meaningful relationships, broader career opportunities, and a richer experience of life in this region.' French resident Marie Dubois explained her 13-year-old daughter loves history and has already picked up Arabic to quite an extent. 'I feel Arabic is deeply tied to rich literary, historical, and religious traditions. Understanding Arabic will help her in appreciating Middle Eastern and Islamic culture, poetry, and philosophy. It would also enable her better communication and connection with Arabic-speaking communities that might help her in her career going forward, if she wants to continue living here. Therefore, introducing children to the language at an early age is crucial, as they can absorb it more effectively, much like a sponge,' she said.
