Sharjah Education Academy (SEA) Company Profile
Background
Sharjah Education Academy (SEA) is a premier educational institution in the United Arab Emirates, dedicated to fostering a culture of continuous improvement within educational establishments. Established in 2020 under the directive of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, SEA's mission is to equip educators with lifelong learning competencies through diverse and innovative professional development, academic programs, and research initiatives. The academy's vision is to lead, innovate, and enable excellence within a diverse learning community.
Key Strategic Focus
SEA's strategic focus encompasses three primary streams:
1. Professional Development: Offering a variety of courses designed to enhance the skills of educators, including certifications in Early Childhood Education for both leaders and teachers, and specialized programs like the School Improvement Accelerator.
2. Academic Programs: Providing accredited postgraduate diplomas and master's degrees in education, developed in collaboration with esteemed institutions such as the University of Helsinki and the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education at the University of Toronto.
3. Research and Studies: Conducting forward-looking research to serve the educational field, with a focus on industrial intelligence and building new education models to support decision-makers.
These initiatives aim to develop adaptive skills among educators, support resilience through collaboration with government and private sectors, and foster research in education.
Financials and Funding
While specific financial details are not publicly disclosed, SEA operates under the auspices of the Sharjah government, receiving substantial support to fulfill its mission. This backing enables the academy to offer scholarships and maintain partnerships with international educational institutions, ensuring the delivery of high-quality programs.
Pipeline Development
SEA has developed and accredited several key academic programs:
- Postgraduate Diploma in Education (PGDE): Accredited in 2022, this program is designed to develop teachers' scientific and innovative thinking skills in teaching and curriculum design.
- Postgraduate Diploma in Educational Leadership: Accredited in 2024, targeting current and aspiring educational leaders, focusing on instructional leadership, operations management, and strategic leadership.
- Master of Education in Teacher Leadership: Developed in collaboration with the University of Helsinki, this program integrates advanced research in education, enabling participants to provide middle-level or informal leadership within their schools.
- Master of Education in Educational Leadership: Also accredited in 2024, this program empowers senior school and educational system leaders to manage and evaluate large-scale educational improvement efforts.
These programs are offered in both Arabic and English, utilizing a hybrid learning system that combines in-person and online study.
Technological Platform and Innovation
SEA leverages a robust digital learning platform to deliver its programs, ensuring accessibility and flexibility for educators. The academy's commitment to innovation is evident in its integration of cutting-edge research and technology into its curriculum, preparing educators to adapt to rapid changes in the educational landscape.
Leadership Team
SEA is led by a team of distinguished professionals:
- Her Excellency Dr. Muhadditha Al Hashimi: President of Sharjah Education Academy and Chairperson of the Sharjah Private Education Authority. She has been instrumental in establishing strategic partnerships and overseeing the development of accredited programs.
- Dr. Jeanine Romano: Executive Director of SEA, overseeing the implementation of academic programs and research initiatives.
- Dr. Ted Purinton: Founding Dean, contributing to the development of innovative teacher education programs.
Leadership Changes
As of the latest available information, there have been no recent significant changes or appointments within SEA's leadership team.
Competitor Profile
Market Insights and Dynamics
The UAE's education sector is characterized by a strong commitment to quality higher education, with significant investments aimed at establishing the region as an educational hub. The strategic location and dedication to innovation make the UAE attractive for international students seeking a multicultural educational experience.
Competitor Analysis
SEA operates in a competitive landscape alongside institutions such as:
- Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT): Established in 1988, HCT is one of the largest higher education institutions in the UAE, offering a wide range of programs across multiple campuses.
- International School of Choueifat, Sharjah: Part of the SABIS network, this school offers a comprehensive K-12 education system and has been operational since 1975.
- Delhi Private School, Sharjah: Established in 2000, this school offers education from Pre-K to Grade 12, following the Central Board of Secondary Education curriculum.
These institutions contribute to the diverse educational offerings in the region, each with its unique focus and curriculum.
Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships
SEA has established significant collaborations to enhance its educational offerings:
- University of Helsinki: Collaborated on the development of the PGDE and Master's programs, integrating advanced research in education.