In a groundbreaking move, Abu Dhabi’s Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) has rolled out a mental health and well-being curriculum in public and private schools across the emirate. The initiative, launched on World Mental Health Day, aims to foster emotional resilience and improve overall mental health awareness among students, educators, and parents.
The new curriculum is designed for students from Grades 4 to 12 and includes modules on stress management, emotional intelligence, coping with anxiety, and mindfulness practices. It also provides training for teachers to better identify signs of mental distress in students and offer timely intervention.
H.E. Sara Musallam, Chairperson of ADEK, highlighted the importance of mental well-being in the learning process: “Students’ mental health is just as important as their academic achievements. By integrating mental health education into our schools, we are equipping the next generation with the tools they need to manage the pressures of modern life.”
The initiative has received praise from education experts and parents, with many welcoming the focus on mental health as a crucial step in holistic education. ADEK plans to expand the curriculum further in the coming years based on feedback and the evolving needs of students.
