Parents unhappy with school fees: Adec public opinion survey

Adec public opinion survey sees participation of 52,534 parents and guardians from across 445 private and public schools in Abu Dhabi.

by

Olivia Olarte-Ulherr

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Published: Wed 18 Dec 2013, 12:26 AM

Last updated: Sat 4 Apr 2015, 10:54 AM

Many parents have expressed unhappiness over the fees and management methods of some private schools, according to a survey carried out by the Abu Dhabi Education Council (Adec) last academic year.

The public opinion survey, the results of which was released on Monday, saw the participation of 52,534 parents and guardians from across 445 private and public schools in Abu Dhabi, 40.2 per cent (21,187) of whom are UAE nationals.

A total of 18,774 students, studying in Grades 5 to 7 in public schools, also responded to the questionnaire. This is not the first time that parents have expressed dissatisfaction on the issue. In the 2011-12 parents’ survey, only 56.22 per cent said the tuition fees matched the quality of education their children receive in private schools.

Dr Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili, Adec’s Director-General, said he is not satisfied with these findings and has instructed schools to “handle issues, complaints and obstacles in a respectable and understanding manner, keeping in mind the interest of students.”

Adec noted that guardian satisfaction is improving across private and public schools. Other issues that need immediate solutions includes the treatment of children with special needs, shortage of extracurricular activities at some schools, strict monitoring of students for any types of abuse, and parent-teacher support. “School hours must be enriching and entertaining, full of knowledge and enhancement with focus on mental, practical and life skills. Students and guardians should not be bombarded with too much homework after school hours,” the Adec advised.

Noting the importance of the survey, the Adec said this is aimed at “reaching high standards”, and to meet labour market demands.

The council is currently working on an academic guide manual ‘Your Guide to Future Profession’ to assist students in selecting courses that are in line with their competencies, desires and capacities.

olivia@khaleejtimes.com


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