United Arab Emirates Undersecretary of the Ministry of Education, His Excellency Eng. Mohammed Al Qasim, completed an official visit to the Republic of Korea focused on AI integration in education, teacher development, and future skills preparation. The visit signals deepening cooperation between two nations that view AI as central to building education systems capable of producing workforce-ready graduates for the knowledge economy.
During the visit, Al Qasim met with Her Excellency EunOk Choi, Vice Minister of the Ministry of Education of the Republic of Korea, along with leaders from research institutions and universities. The discussions zeroed in on joint efforts in AI deployment, curriculum modernization, and data-driven approaches to improving educational quality and operational efficiency.
AI policy and teacher preparation
At Seoul National University, Al Qasim examined advanced programmes for teacher qualification and educational leadership. The briefings covered how scientific research feeds into pedagogical practices - specifically, the integration of AI for Education into teacher-training programmes and teaching methodologies. Both countries face the same challenge: helping teachers adapt as classrooms shift toward AI-augmented instruction.
Al Qasim said artificial intelligence is no longer merely a technological choice, but "a primary driver reshaping global education." He added that educational systems best positioned to use its potential "will be the most successful in equipping generations with the knowledge, skills and agility required to lead the future."
Early childhood and STEM pipelines
Meetings with the Korea Institute of Child Care and Education (KICCE) highlighted evidence-based policies for school readiness and early childhood education quality. The visit also included sessions with the Korea Foundation for Science and Creativity (KOSAC) and Seoul Science High School, where Al Qasim reviewed national programmes that develop critical thinking and scientific research capabilities through STEM pathways.
The Korean model links classroom outcomes directly to economic needs - an approach Al Qasim described as instructive for the UAE's own ambitions. He said the Republic of Korea's record in teacher training, AI integration, curricula, assessment design, and talent cultivation "present an inspiring model."
Vocational pathways and system management
Beyond academic tracks, discussions examined technical and vocational education tied to strategic industries. Korea's experience in managing education systems, supporting gifted students, and building scientific and technological capabilities across different student populations provided a framework for UAE planners evaluating their own reform timeline.
Teachers looking to build similar skills can explore a structured AI Learning Path for Teachers designed specifically for professional development in classroom AI integration.
Why this matters for education professionals
The visit confirms that ministries are treating AI literacy not as an optional add-on but as infrastructure - the same way broadband or electricity became non-negotiable. For teachers, curriculum designers, and school administrators, the message is concrete: professional development in AI tools and data-informed instruction will become a baseline expectation, not a specialization. The countries moving fastest are embedding this into teacher training, assessment systems, and early childhood policy simultaneously. Practitioners who build these competencies now will be better positioned as national systems formalize their requirements.
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