As the new academic year begins amidst the ongoing US-Israel-Iran war, several Indian schools in the UAE are implementing practical solutions to keep students on track. With many families reluctant to send their children back to campus, schools are taking the initiative to deliver textbooks directly to homes, a move that has been positively received by parents eager to maintain educational continuity.

Schools are not only focusing on academic support; they are also enhancing their systems to address student wellbeing. This includes organized logistics for distributing resources and providing free virtual counseling for students preparing for university. By adapting quickly, schools aim to minimize disruptions and alleviate the anxiety families are experiencing during these uncertain times.

For numerous parents, these initiatives have fostered a sense of stability. With learning materials arriving before classes commence and readily available online guidance, students are starting the year better equipped despite the extraordinary circumstances. Schools are clear about their priorities: to sustain academic momentum while supporting student wellbeing, both of which are crucial as communities face a challenging start to the year.

Home Delivery Ensures Uninterrupted Learning

Some schools have even opted to physically distribute books to students due to limited campus attendance. At Global Indian International School (GIIS) Dubai, Principal Anita Singh explained that this decision was influenced by safety and continuity concerns. She emphasized that "learning should not be hindered due to lack of resources" and highlighted the school’s response to parent requests while adhering to regulations.

"In alignment with directives from the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), we made the vital decision to distribute books to parents at home. Parents appreciated this initiative as it ensured a seamless learning experience without gaps that could affect student performance," she noted.

Similarly, The Indian Academy, Dubai, part of the LEAMS Education Group, established a systematic approach for textbook distribution. Through early procurement, staggered deliveries, and a centralized online ordering platform, the school ensured that resources reached students well ahead of the academic year.

Hajera Lahir, Director of LEAMS Education, emphasized the meticulous planning behind the initiative, stating, “Our key priority is to ensure that every student is fully prepared from day one of the academic year. Through structured planning and coordinated execution, we’ve ensured that learning resources are delivered in advance, fostering continuity, confidence, and consistent academic progress for all students.”

Virtual Counseling Supports Students and Parents

In addition to logistical support, schools are also addressing the emotional and academic pressures students are facing, especially those who were unable to sit for the Grade 12 board exams in the UAE due to the ongoing war but are now applying to universities.

At GIIS Dubai, virtual counseling sessions were introduced after educators observed increasing anxiety levels among students. Singh noted that "students felt the pressure," which led the school to proactively provide support for both career guidance and mental wellbeing.

"Counseling sessions were conducted online to assist students with applications for various universities," she explained, adding that flexible scheduling allowed parents to be actively involved in decision-making.

She further emphasized the importance of accessible guidance, stating, "In a competitive market where counseling services can be costly, we take the responsibility of making it available to all students. Our approach is holistic, ensuring that students are not only well-prepared but also confident and resilient as they navigate life-changing decisions."