The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) in India has asked all affiliated schools to urgently speed up the rollout of the third language (R3) for Class VI students ahead of the 2026–27 academic year.

In a fresh directive, CBSE said several schools are yet to complete the required process under the National Curriculum Framework for School Education 2023, while some institutions have submitted language options that do not comply with policy guidelines.

May 31 deadline for schools

The Board has now made it compulsory for all schools, including schools in UAE, to upload and finalise their third-language selections on the OASIS portal by May 31.

Schools that entered incorrect or non-approved language options have also been instructed to correct their submissions before the deadline.

Textbooks to arrive by July

The Board said textbooks for scheduled Indian languages will be available on the CBSE and National Council of Educational Research and Training platforms from July 1.

For non-scheduled languages, schools can use SCERT or state-approved textbooks, provided they align with the learning outcomes set under NCFSE-2023.

Focus on Indian languages

The Board reiterated that schools must offer at least two Indian languages under the R1, R2 and R3 language structure. Institutions that have not yet begun implementation have been directed to start teaching on July 1.

Push for full implementation

With timelines now clearly defined, CBSE is increasing pressure on schools to complete all pending formalities before the new academic session begins.

Students across the UAE will temporarily return to distance learning from May 5 to May 8, as authorities take precautionary steps to ensure safety and continuity in education.

In Dubai, the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) confirmed that all private schools, nurseries and universities will switch to online learning during this period.

The move aligns with a nationwide directive from the Ministry of Education, which applies to both public and private institutions across the country.

Schools have been instructed to activate their remote learning plans, ensuring that classes, assignments and administrative operations continue without disruption.

What about universities?

The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research also confirmed that higher education institutions will follow the same approach.

However, some programmes will continue on campus, particularly those that require:

• Clinical training
• Laboratory work
• Practical or field-based learning
• In-person examinations

Why the shift?

Officials said the decision is part of precautionary measures to safeguard students, staff and the wider community, with authorities continuing to monitor the situation closely.

The move follows a statement from the Ministry of Defence regarding the interception of aerial threats, after which authorities emphasised that safety systems responded effectively.

What parents and students should expect

For families, this means a short return to online classes, similar to previous remote learning setups. Schools are expected to provide schedules and guidance directly to parents and students.

Authorities said the situation will be reviewed on May 8, with the possibility of extending remote learning if required.

Authorities in Abu Dhabi are reminding motorists to exercise extra caution when driving near schools, highlighting the risks posed by distractions and heavy traffic during peak hours.

Abu Dhabi Police stressed the importance of staying fully focused on the road, particularly during morning drop-offs and afternoon pick-ups, when congestion and pedestrian activity increase significantly.

Drivers have been advised to reduce speed, respect pedestrian crossings and come to a complete stop when school bus stop signs are displayed. Officials warned that using mobile phones or engaging in other distractions while driving can pose serious dangers to students and other road users.

Police also emphasised that road safety is a shared responsibility, calling on parents and the wider community to support safe driving practices and help create a secure environment around schools.

Authorities added that awareness and enforcement campaigns will continue as part of broader efforts to enhance road safety and community wellbeing across the emirate.