The Ministry of Education has informed all public and private schools across the UAE that it has approved eight categories of acceptable student absences. These absences will not be considered violations, nor will they subject students to disciplinary action. The policy also outlines clear procedures for documenting and verifying the authenticity of such excuses.
As stated by the ministry, the approved cases include: documented illness, chronic health conditions, accompanying family members for medical treatment, participation in national service or duties, bereavement, emergencies such as natural disasters, exceptional personal situations, and cases related to students of determination.
Recognized Excuses
The ministry explained that illness is one of the most acknowledged reasons for student absence, as long as the student presents a medical certificate issued by an accredited authority either within or outside the UAE. Students suffering from chronic health conditions will be accommodated through customized academic plans, ensuring their education continues smoothly without interruption.
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Structured Regulations
Students can also be excused for accompanying family members receiving medical treatment abroad, with absences limited to one week per academic year and supported by an official document from the relevant authority.
Absences related to participation in national duties or official events, whether within the country or abroad, will also be permitted, provided there is official documentation specifying the nature and duration of the involvement.
Bereavement Leave
Students are allowed leave in the event of the death of a first- or second-degree relative, provided the absence is documented according to the approved regulations.
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Emergency Situations
The ministry also recognizes that emergencies, such as natural disasters or other force majeure events preventing students from attending school, as well as exceptional personal circumstances reviewed by specialized committees, constitute valid reasons for excused absence.
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New Regulations
The ministry highlighted the significance of these newly introduced regulations, which balance school discipline with humanitarian and social considerations for students and their families. The rules clearly outline acceptable absence scenarios and the procedures for properly documenting them.
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Individual Support Plans
Schools must closely monitor absent students by providing access to learning materials through digital platforms or personalized academic support plans to ensure continuity of education. Students are also required to complete make-up assignments to maintain academic integrity.
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Unexcused Absences and Disciplinary Measures in the UAE
Students who exceed five unexcused absences per semester or 15 days in an academic year may face progressive disciplinary actions. Penalties can include written warnings, conduct grade deductions, or repeating the academic year.
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Steps for Handling Unexcused Absences:
- 1 Day Absent: Written warning issued to the student and guardian.
- 3 Days Absent: First official warning issued; guardian notified immediately.
- 6 Days Absent: Second warning issued; case referred to the Child Protection Unit.
- 10 Days Absent: Third warning issued; case referred again to the Child Protection Unit; conduct grades may be affected.
- 15 Days (Cumulative): Case escalated to school administration and external authorities; student may be required to repeat the academic year.
- Exceeding Maximum: The student may face expulsion from the formal education system.
Important Notes
- Students of Determination and Chronic Illness Cases: Schools must provide individualized support plans, including psychological and educational assistance.
- Accepted Excuses: Certified medical reasons, bereavement within the family, and justified travel.
- Parents’ Role: Guardians must update contact information, submit official absence justifications, and ensure their child’s attendance.
- Right to Appeal: Parents may appeal within five working days of receiving notification about their child’s absence.
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Source: Gulf News.