Minister of State for FNC Affairs emphasizes importance of debate during FNC Sessions

He also expressed his satisfaction with the excellent attendance and participation at the session that demonstrate society's interest in education affairs. The debates also highlighted the prominent role of education in the UAE federal strategy.

Dr. Gargash pointed to the distinguished performance and participation of the FNC members and commended their sincerity in discussing public affairs without succumbing to emotions and rhetoric. Through such rational and committed discussions the modernized FNC aims to create a forum to promote debate amongst UAE citizens in order for them to contribute to the policy making process.

He also pointed to the positive performance of the government during the session represented by H.E. Dr. Hanif Hassan, UAE Minister of Education, and H.E. Dr. Maryam Mohammed Khalfan Al Roumi, UAE Minister of Social Affairs.

'Education is a fundamental issue that is imperative to UAE society's development in a highly competitive environment. The Minister of Education has patiently welcomed all questions and comments and responded with clarity,' said Dr. Gargash.

There were three major areas highlighted during the session; the first of which concerned education councils. Dr. Hanif Hassan verified their importance in supporting growth of the educational sector in the UAE and reassured FNC members that these councils will not create inequalities in educational opportunities. The second area dealt with utilization of external expertise in the education sector, and here the Minister emphasized that the expertise is essential and does not diminish local skills.

The third core of discussion was a comprehensive outline of the structure and framework of the educational sector. Dr. Gargash stated that the contrast of opinions around these matters is natural and that the Minister of Education welcomes the comments, as they will help support national educational policy making.

The ministerial presence, Dr. Gargash added, is an indication of the government's commitment to clarify its policies to the UAE people. The question-and-answer sessions with the ministers enables Council members to get an accurate picture of the current situation directly from ministers, he said.

'The high level of coordination between the Ministerial Cabinet and the Federal National Council strengthens the parliamentary experience and helps cement the Council's role in the federal government,' Dr. Gargash said. 'The FNC is committed to raising and discussing issues that affect our society and proposing solutions for the common good.'

FNC members also considered six draft laws during the session and forwarded them to the Ministry of Presidential Affairs for the necessary approvals. The Ministry for FNC Affairs will pass the draft laws to UAE President, H.H. Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan.