UAE government schools to replace exams with practical assessments for some students

The UAE government will replace certain exams for students aged 11 to 13 with project-based assessments in the upcoming academic year, as part of a broader effort to enhance public education standards.

Sarah Al Amiri, Minister of Education, announced that the second term central test for Cycle 2 pupils — covering grades 6 to 8 — will be replaced by a new assessment model, encouraging students to apply theoretical knowledge in practical ways.

This initiative was introduced as the Ministry of Education unveiled its back-to-school action plan on Tuesday. Hundreds of thousands of public and private school students are set to return to classrooms on Monday, August 26, following the summer break.

As part of the school expansion plan, the ministry will open 12 additional government schools in the new school year. Thirteen more will reopen after undergoing comprehensive maintenance. Mohammed Al Qasim, undersecretary at the ministry, stated that further upgrade work has been completed at 311 public schools across the Emirates. Additionally, thousands of school buses have been inspected to ensure they meet the highest safety standards.

"In collaboration with service providers, the ministry conducted thorough maintenance for all school buses ensuring their adherence to the highest safety standards, with over 5,000 school buses made available this year," according to a statement from the UAE Government Media Office.

"Furthermore, school transportation routes were optimised to ensure a smooth and comfortable daily commute for students."

The ministry also launched its largest-ever field survey to develop a strategic framework for pupil wellbeing and announced a program of school-based and extracurricular activities to enhance students' cognitive, cultural, and social skills.