The Digital School, an initiative of Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, has launched a new digital training programme aimed at tackling the global teacher shortage by preparing community members to serve as teaching assistants, strengthening classrooms in underserved regions worldwide.
Announced at the World Governments Summit 2026 in Dubai, the Building Educator Skills for Teaching (BEST) programme is developed in collaboration with the Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College for Learning and Innovation at Arizona State University. The self-paced online initiative offers a flexible and scalable model that equips participants with essential classroom skills to support lead teachers and ensure continuity of learning.
Dr. Waleed Al Ali, Secretary General of The Digital School, said the programme reflects the organisation’s commitment to empowering individuals with practical skills that enable them to contribute meaningfully to their communities and support sustainable development. He emphasised that strengthening those who lead learning is a critical step toward expanding access to education.
Dr. Chris Howard of Arizona State University noted that the programme aligns with the university’s mission to ensure innovation serves the greater good, describing BEST as a high-impact approach that expands educational opportunity where it is most needed.
In its first phase, the programme offers ten micro-courses in Arabic and English covering core teaching skills, learner support, student-centred education, and classroom management. Additional languages will be introduced in later stages to broaden access.
Participants who complete the programme receive a joint certificate from The Digital School and Arizona State University, providing a recognised professional credential for use within local education systems.
Designed as a low-cost and highly scalable digital model, the programme supports rapid deployment across countries and contributes to advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Quality Education, Reduced Inequalities, and Partnerships for the Goals.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
