Dubai Students Log on from Home As Extreme Weather Forces Virtual Classes
Dubai students found themselves back in front of their laptops and iPads on Friday as extreme weather conditions once again led to virtual classes. Reminiscent of the time when distance learning was the norm, many parents received circulars late Thursday evening informing them that their kids’ classes would be moved online due to the rain.
The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) had urged all private educational institutions in Dubai to be flexible on Friday, taking into account the extreme weather conditions. As a result, some schools provided an online alternative, while others opted for a hybrid model and a few even cancelled classes altogether.
Ninu Hyder, whose son attends Safa British School in Dubai, shared that the switch to remote learning was prompted by reports of floods onsite and on surrounding roads. Describing the scene at home, Hyder commented, “My house was chaotic today. My children were excited, it reminded me of a time when we were pupils and declaring a holiday on a rainy day was such a delightful experience, except that we didn’t have remote learning back in the day, and I think that made it even more exciting.”
Ben Lebig, whose daughter attends GEMS Cambridge International School (CIS), reported that classes were cancelled to allow maintenance teams to make necessary repairs after the heavy rains. However, he expressed gratitude that the school quickly provided materials for students to work on at home, prioritizing safety.
One student at the Safa British School, Abhay Sundar, spoke about the relaxed school day he enjoyed, saying, “Honestly, I hardly did anything during my online classes today. I just kept the iPad on and paid attention only while doing Math, which is my favourite subject. It reminded me of Covid times except that this time it was without restrictions, and I knew I would return to school soon.”
Many parents, such as British expat Emma Smith, opted to keep their children at home. She explained, “My daughter’s school anyway ordered suspension of classes early on Thursday. We received a notification from her school stating that some activities on Friday are cancelled due to adverse weather conditions.”
Overall, the unexpected move to virtual classes due to extreme weather conditions disrupted the usual routine for students and parents, but many managed to adapt and make the most out of the situation.
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