Adek tightens private school licensing rules

The Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) has issued a directive requiring all private schools to submit licence renewal applications at least 60 days prior to expiry.

- BY ABDULLA RASHEED

The new requirements are detailed in ADEK's updated Licensing Manual, designed to streamline regulatory oversight and ensure timely compliance.

Under the new policy, ADEK has the authority to place schools with recurring 'Acceptable' or lower inspection ratings under financial, administrative and academic supervision.

This seeks to drive consistent improvements in performance.

Strict conditions

To renew a licence, schools must settle any outstanding fines or comply with an approved payment plan. Failure to do so will classify the school as delinquent and may result in licence suspension.