Zayed National Museum celebrates teachers' role in shaping UAE's heritage education
Abu Dhabi: When students walk into Zayed National Museum in Abu Dhabi, history is no longer confined to their textbooks. But turning a collection spanning more than 300,000 years into something children can learn from took more than curatorial expertise, the museum said. As the UAE marks World Teachers' Day on 5 October, the museum is highlighting the role educators played. "Teachers have a…
When students enter the Zayed National Museum in Abu Dhabi, they are greeted with a world of history beyond their classroom textbooks. The museum strives to transform a collection that spans over 300,000 years into an engaging educational experience for children.
The museum's Acting Section Head of Learning Programmes, Leqa Al Zaabi, emphasizes the importance of teachers in shaping the museum's learning program. Zaabi explains that teachers possess a deep understanding of their students, making their input crucial for developing engaging educational content.
The museum allows young people to ask questions, closely examine real objects, and make connections themselves. Visitors can observe archaeological evidence of ancient communities, explore the UAE's trade history, and learn about the country's founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The goal is to spark curiosity rather than merely providing information.
Zaabi underscores that the role of museum staff is not to simply disseminate knowledge but to foster a sense of wonder and inquiry among visitors. She believes that leaving a student with a desire to learn more about their heritage signifies a successful visit.
This approach aligns with a broader trend in the UAE towards hands-on learning. The Ministry of Education has introduced Project-Based Learning and Assessment in the 2026-27 school year, impacting over 129,000 students across 366 schools. The Zayed National Museum's programme complements this shift by offering guided gallery visits, workshops, and learning resources such as "Baba Zayed" and "Unearthing History."
Open to all, the museum provides free access to students and faculty, as well as after-school activities for children and families. The Museum Membership for Teachers, available to educators in K-12 schools, higher education, and People of Determination centers, includes unlimited gallery access, workshop invitations, and early notice of education-themed events. By involving teachers in the museum experience, the institution ensures that its stories reach classrooms and the next generation.
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