The Digital School, an initiative of Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI), has launched a new programme to address the global shortage of teachers.
Launched in collaboration with the Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College for Learning and Innovation at Arizona State University, Building Educator Skills for Teaching (BEST) is an online training programme that prepares individuals from local communities to serve as teaching assistants.
The programme offers a flexible model that equips participants with essential classroom skills. It also facilitates continuity of learning, especially in environments where recruiting qualified teaching staff remains a challenge.
As part of the programme, teaching assistants are also trained to enhance classroom stability, improve learner support, and strengthen education systems.
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 phases.
Participants who complete the programme will receive a joint certificate issued by The Digital School and the Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College for Learning and Innovation. The recognised professional credential can be utilised within local education systems.