As the new academic year 2026-2027 kicks off on 31 August, the private education sector in Sharjah is poised to welcome more than 204,000 students. This significant influx is accompanied by the introduction of new educational facilities, enhanced school transportation readiness, and intensified oversight visits as part of the “My School is My Family” campaign.
Expansion of Educational Facilities
The Sharjah Private Education Authority has confirmed the full preparedness of the private education system for the upcoming year, which will see the opening of six new private schools. This expansion will raise the total number of licensed schools to 135, thereby increasing capacity and providing families with more diverse educational options.
Advancements in Early Childhood Education
The growth extends into the realm of early childhood education, with the launch of seven new nurseries, consequently bringing the total number of licensed nurseries in the emirate to 161. Additionally, five new licensed early childhood centres have been established.
Ensuring Operational Readiness
Preparation for the new academic year also includes rigorous checks of school readiness. The authority conducted 132 on-site visits to assess the operational readiness of schools prior to student arrivals. These inspections were essential in verifying compliance with accepted requirements and ensuring a smooth transition from preparation to actual operation as students return.
Transportation Preparedness
Regarding transportation, 2,737 school buses have been equipped in accordance with the mandated safety standards, ensuring that student transportation will be seamless as classes commence. The smooth operation of transport during the initial days is crucial, with measures in place to mitigate any challenges that may affect the punctual arrival and departure of students.
Focus on Educational Staff Development
Alongside infrastructure developments, significant attention has been paid to enhancing the preparedness of educational staff. A total of 321 training courses have been delivered, aimed at upgrading the skills and professional readiness of personnel in the educational sector before the students return. An additional 114 teachers have been recruited as part of the “Be Proud, Teacher” programme, reinforcing schools with talented educators and bolstering the human resources available for the new academic year.
Looking Ahead
The Sharjah Private Education Authority has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the system is ready to welcome students, wishing them a year filled with success. The preparations for the 2026-2027 academic year showcase a blend of expanding facilities, thorough readiness evaluations, secure school transport, and upgrading the capabilities of staff, all aimed at facilitating a stable start to the educational process.