The ministry has denied reports circulating on news websites and social media sites.

The Ministry of Education has denied reports circulating on some news websites and social media sites that schools will be disrupted for three days due to the ongoing implementation of the distance learning initiative (e-learning).

The ministry has clarified that the information that has circulated online is false because the new initiative, which will be conducted through the 'smart learning portal', will not affect the normal school programme for teachers and students.

The ministry had on Monday announced the launch of the distance learning programme in some public schools across the country as part of efforts for continuity and to fulfill the requirements of Emirati schools in the event of disasters.

According to the ministry, a pilot project for the e-learning programme is being implemented in some Emirati schools with the second phase scheduled for March 4, for pupils from grades 5 to 8, from 5pm-7pm.

The third phase of the distance learning initiative is scheduled for Thursday, March 5 and targets students from grades 9 to 12. Students in these classes will remain home that day and attend classes through the e-learning initiative. For teachers, their school hours will remain normal and won't be affected.

"The initiative aims to achieve the requirements of the Emirati school, and to ensure the continuity of learning through distance learning- a method of self-learning without facing difficulties. This promotes the open-education system and ensure its continuity," the ministry said in a statement.



ismail@khaleejtimes.com