Education & Community Development

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    Overview

    A key part of the Al Qasimi Foundation’s mission is creating opportunities for people and communities across Ras Al Khaimah to learn, develop and thrive. Through education and community development programs, the Foundation supports the professional growth of educators and government professionals through training, networks, international exchanges and opportunities for continued learning. We recognise educational excellence and encourage effective practice, while creating opportunities for young people to develop their skills, broaden their perspectives and realise their potential. Our work also extends to individuals and groups who may face barriers to education and opportunity, including inmates, through programmes that support learning, rehabilitation and community reintegration. Across these areas, we work with local, regional and international partners to respond to evolving community needs, strengthen individual and institutional capabilities, and contribute to the continued social and economic development of Ras Al Khaimah.

     

    Education & Community Development Team

    RAK Awards for Educational Excellence

    Established in 2004 under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, the RAK Awards for Educational Excellence celebrate excellence and innovation across the Emirate’s education sector. An initiative of the Al Qasimi Foundation, the Awards recognise outstanding students, educators and institutions, promote effective educational practice and encourage continued improvement across Ras Al Khaimah.

    In 2026, the Awards successfully marked their 20th edition, recognising 68 recipients across 26 categories from across Ras Al Khaimah’s education community.
     
    Following the completion of its 20th edition, the Award will move to a biennial cycle, taking place every two years. The new format will provide schools, educators and participants with more time to develop and implement practices, demonstrate measurable impact and prepare their submissions. It will also provide additional time for the continued development of the Award’s categories and evaluation process.

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    Educators

    Since 2010, the Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi Foundation for Policy Research has provided professional development programs for teachers at government and private schools in Ras Al Khaimah. The programming has sought to help them solve the challenges they face in their schools and increase student engagement and learning, thus raising the overall standard of education in the emirate. Presently, activities include professional development courses and workshops, a virtual platform called the Ras Al Khaimah Teachers Network, and an international teacher exchange program. In 2018, the Al Qasimi Foundation signed a memorandum of understanding with the Ministry of Education (MOE) to formalize our ongoing collaboration in professional development programming.

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    Youth Supporting Programs

    The Al Qasimi Foundation’s Youth Supporting Programs are designed to uplift and support students across the UAE, particularly those facing social, emotional, or academic challenges. From the innovative Hands-on Learning (HOL) model and the transformative Annual Summer Camp for children of inmates, to the creative outreach of ART Exploration 2025 and the life-changing "Inspiring Journey" Mentorship Program, each initiative plays a vital role in fostering resilience, self-expression, and personal growth. These programs not only support at-risk youth but also strengthen community ties and promote inclusive, holistic education across the nation.

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