CBSE Launches Its First Regional Office Outside India, In Dubai

In a big boost to Indian education in the UAE, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) launched its first Regional Office (RO) and Centre of Excellence (CoE) outside India, in Dubai. On the occasion of Teachers’ Day on September 5, a special orientation session was conducted between the CBSE officials, representatives from the Indian Mission in Dubai, and principals from 78 schools across Dubai and the Northern Emirates. The session provided a platform to discuss the new office’s goals, scope, and its expected impact on the region.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the opening of the CBSE RO & CoE in Dubai on February 13, 2024, during his visit to the UAE, and it began its official operation on July 2, 2024, at the Consulate General of India, Dubai, UAE.

According to an ANI report, Dr. Ram Shankar, Director of CBSE RO & CoE in Dubai, presented a detailed overview of CBSE’s mission in the region at the orientation. He highlighted the board’s key objectives, particularly its role in promoting learning outcome-based education and fostering new dimensions in teaching.

He highlighted that CBSE will implement a model focused on outcome-based learning, offering subjects at multiple levels to cater to different student abilities. The board will also promote art-integrated learning and health education as part of a more holistic educational approach, alongside the introduction of new skill subjects aligned with global educational trends, reported ANI.

The CBSE Regional Office is also engaged in a series of assessment reforms designed to make education more competency-based and student-friendly.

This includes the implementation of case-based and competency-focused questions, strengthening internal assessments, and developing Annual Pedagogical Plans. The board also aims to promote experiential learning through innovative methods such as sports, storytelling, and toy-based learning.

The new regional office in Dubai will play a crucial role in overseeing examinations in the region. The Centre of Excellence will focus on in-service teacher training, equipping educators with the skills and knowledge necessary to stay ahead of educational innovations and global teaching methodologies.

In his address, the Consul General of India in Dubai, Satish Kumar Sivan, emphasised the importance of this new development, stating, “The Centre for Excellence will empower teachers with cutting-edge training, enabling them to stay updated on best practices and innovative technologies.

“This will enrich the learning experience for students.”

Underlining its importance, Sivan said that the office will help CBSE in providing support and resources to students, educators, and parents in the region. “It represents the hopes, dreams, and aspirations of thousands of stakeholders who will benefit from its operations. The CBSE office will serve as a beacon of excellence and a hub for academic support for years to come,” said Sivan.