Dubai unveils 15-member student council to represent all private schools

Dubai will soon have a 15-member student body, selected from across all private schools, nationalities and curricula, to "help shape the education journey" and "nurture leaders of tomorrow".

It's part of the Leaders of Tomorrow game changer initiative under the Education 33 strategy. 

In a statement, the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) said the members of the Dubai Students Council (DSC) will be selected based on nominations and an intense review process.

It will be open to students from Grade 9/Year 10 to Grade 12/Year 13, with every Dubai private school allowed to nominate one student as long as they meet the eligibility criteria that includes good conduct, strong leadership potential, effective communication and teamwork skills, and active participation in school or community initiatives.

Eligible students are also encouraged to discuss the nomination process with their school leadership. 

“We encourage all eligible students, including Emiratis, to step forward and express their interest for the 2025-26 academic year," said Dr Amna Almaazmi, CEO of Growth and Human Development at KHDA.

"Your ideas and perspectives matter, and your voice can help shape and enrich the education journey of every learner in Dubai." 

Once the nominations are in, a team from the KHDA will review and finalise the 15 members, who will begin their term from the 2025-26 academic year.

Each student will serve a one-year term, with the option to reapply for a second term, subject to eligibility and their performance within the team. 

Announced by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai, the Education 33 strategy is built on the belief that students are not just participants in education but are partners.

The DSC members will act as a bridge between KHDA and students, fostering open communication and collaborative problem-solving.

Game Changer initiatives will be rolled out in several phases over the next decade to support the E33 goals, redefine educational experiences and outcomes, and foster innovation and excellence across all levels of education.