Dubai's private education sector will introduce an automated system to manage safeguarding concerns in the first quarter of 2027, under a new framework aimed at protecting learners from abuse, neglect, exploitation and cyberbullying.

The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) announced the Policy Framework for Safeguarding and Learner Protection at a media briefing on Friday, November 13.

It sets common protection standards for private early childhood centres, schools and higher education institutions across the emirate.

Its scope extends beyond schoolchildren to include learners aged 18 and above, bringing safeguarding responsibilities into higher education.

An automated case management system, scheduled for introduction in the first quarter of 2027, will standardise how institutions escalate safeguarding concerns, manage cases and follow up on action taken.

KHDA indicated that reporting mechanisms could include a dedicated hotline or an electronic case management platform.

The aim is to establish a consistent response across the private education sector, helping institutions recognise risks and act when a learner needs protection.

That responsibility extends beyond the classroom. Institutions will also need to recognise warning signs of harm that may occur off-site or online.

Training will be a key part of implementation, helping staff understand their responsibilities and the steps they must take when concerns arise.

Protecting a learner can involve several people, including safeguarding leads, pastoral teams and other professionals providing support. Clear accountability and coordination are intended to ensure each person understands their role.

The framework recognises that abuse, neglect and exploitation can have lasting consequences for a learner's physical and emotional wellbeing, relationships and education.

It also places learner protection within a wider community effort, with parents, guardians, education leaders and the media helping to raise awareness, recognise concerns and support appropriate action.

Institutions will begin with familiarisation sessions in November and December 2026 to understand the framework and its requirements.

Additional guidance, templates and resources will be introduced through the Safe Space platform in the first quarter of 2027. Safeguarding leads and their deputies will receive role-specific training during the same period.

Under the framework, safeguarding information should be stored separately from academic records and shared only when necessary and in the learner's best interests.

If a learner moves to another school and requires continued support, relevant information should be passed to the receiving institution so it can provide that help.

Confidentiality remains central to the process, including when concerns are escalated to KHDA or other relevant government entities.

(Source: Khaleej Times)