Dubai’s private schools have once again affirmed their global standing by achieving impressive rankings in financial literacy and creative thinking in the 2022 Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA), conducted by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).
Dubai private schools excel in international rankings.
These results underscore Dubai’s commitment to providing comprehensive education that prepares students for real-world challenges.
PISA, a triennial assessment, evaluates 15-year-old students’ abilities to apply their knowledge and skills in reading, mathematics, and science to practical situations. In 2022, Dubai participated for the first time in additional domains of financial literacy and creative thinking, enriching the assessment with insights into students’ practical skills beyond traditional academic subjects.
Financial literacy, a critical measure of students’ understanding of financial concepts, risks, and decision-making skills, saw Dubai’s private schools secure the second position out of 20 participating countries and regions. Achieving a score of 522 points, Dubai surpassed the OECD global average of 498 points, demonstrating a high level of competence among students in managing personal finances and setting savings goals. A remarkable 82% of the 4,478 surveyed students expressed confidence in their ability to manage money effectively, reflecting a robust understanding of financial principles early in their educational journey.
Creative thinking, another significant domain in the PISA assessment, evaluates students’ capacity to innovate, evaluate ideas critically, and devise original solutions. Dubai’s private schools excelled in this area as well, ranking sixth out of 64 participating countries and regions with a score of 36 points. This performance underscores students’ ability to generate impactful ideas and engage in creative projects effectively, with 84% of the 7,474 students demonstrating proficiency at or above the OECD baseline level.
These achievements highlight Dubai’s proactive approach to education, emphasizing not only academic rigor but also practical skills essential for personal and professional success. By integrating financial literacy and creative thinking into the PISA assessment, Dubai’s education system prepares students to navigate complex challenges and contribute innovatively to society.
The success of Dubai’s private schools in the PISA rankings reflects the emirate’s ongoing investment in educational excellence and holistic development. It underscores Dubai’s commitment to fostering a supportive learning environment that nurtures students’ intellectual curiosity, critical thinking abilities, and practical life skills.
Looking forward, Dubai remains steadfast in its dedication to enhancing educational outcomes and preparing students to excel in a rapidly evolving global landscape. By continuing to innovate and adapt educational practices, Dubai’s private schools aim to maintain their position as leaders in global education, equipping students with the competencies needed to thrive in the 21st century.
Dubai’s achievement in financial literacy and creative thinking within the PISA framework is a testament to the emirate’s educational leadership and commitment to fostering well-rounded individuals capable of contributing meaningfully to a global society. These results affirm Dubai’s status as a hub for educational excellence and innovation, paving the way for continued growth and success in the years ahead.
