New School-Parent Contract Introduced in 24 Dubai Private Schools

Dubai’ Knowledge and Human Development Authority extended the contracts between educational institutions and parents, which were launched last year to a limited number of schools. The new school-parent contract is now introduced in 24 schools across Dubai for the 2014-2015 academic year.

The contracts between schools and parents are designed to clarify the rights and mutual responsibilities of the two parties and eventually to reduce the number of complaints. Education is a big and very profitable business in Dubai. According to KHDA, the first phase of the project which launched in 6 schools last year was successful, with a decline of parent-school disputes from 40 to 32. After reviewing the results, small changes were made and now the new arrangement is mandatory for both schools and parents and is legally binding for the two parties. Available from June 1, the contract allows parents to go through every clause and to understand it, as signing the papers is required before students can register for the next academic year.

The arrangements between the school and the family of the student will be updated annually, so it would benefit all, based on the agreed terms and conditions. The main issues outlined in the contract are the rights and responsibilities of schools and parents, the fees, as well as the curriculum and educational programmes. Other clauses refer to the students’ attendance and punctuality, appropriate attitudes and behavior, health and safety, transport and communication. An additional clause states that all students above the age of 15 should also sign the paper along with their parents, saying they have read and understood it. However, students cannot be held responsible for breaching the rules after all, so parents will be called to account.

The contracts are mandatory for 24 schools in Dubai, mostly with Emirati students because as Amal Belhasam, head of KHDA’s compliance and resolution commission, said “UAE nationals are a top priority”. One of new rules, according to the contracts, takes “cyber-bullying” seriously – parents and students are expected to behave in social media and forums and to “demonstrate respect for all members of the school community”. This clause however, although sounding genuine, will find it hard to address kids’ behavior and communication. The contracts are believed to influence pupil attendance – students now should be able to understand the direct consequences of their actions.

For the 2014-2015 academic year, the project will involve 24 schools and a total of 38,624 students. Outlining the major issues and possible misunderstandings between families and institutions, it should at least improve the communication between schools and parents.