Dubai: Private schools and other educational institutions in Dubai will have to follow new safeguarding requirements aimed at protecting learners, identifying potential risks earlier and ensuring concerns are properly reported and addressed.
The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) has introduced the Policy Framework for Safeguarding and Learner Protection in Dubai’s Private Educational Institutions, setting out mandatory requirements for how institutions prevent, identify and respond to safeguarding concerns.
The framework also establishes clearer responsibilities for school leaders, staff and governing bodies, with a phased implementation period of up to 12 months.
Here is what the new framework means, how it will work and what happens if institutions fail to comply.
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What is the new safeguarding framework?
The framework establishes a common set of safeguarding standards across Dubai's private education sector. It focuses on four areas:
Prevention: Creating safer learning environments and reducing potential risks.
Early identification: Recognising warning signs and safeguarding concerns.
Reporting and response: Ensuring concerns are reported, escalated and addressed appropriately.
Accountability: Monitoring safeguarding practices and holding institutions responsible for compliance.
Safeguarding will no longer be treated solely as the responsibility of a designated staff member. It must be integrated into an institution's policies, leadership, recruitment, training and everyday practices.
