74 Excellence in Schools
A s schools across the UAE and beyond face a concerning rise in student vaping, the need to move beyond passive awareness into decisive, sustainable action has never been more urgent. At GEMS Education, we have responded with a comprehensive, multi-faceted strategy designed not only to curb vaping but also to foster a healthier, more focused school environment. Our approach centres on collaboration, education, infrastructure, and accountability, essential pillars in combating this harmful trend and safeguarding student wellbeing. Understanding the Context Vaping is strictly prohibited in all educational institutions across the UAE, as part of a wider national ban on smoking and vaping in public areas. While legislation is clear, the reality in schools presents complex challenges. Vapes [often discreet and easy to conceal] make it possible for students to use them during the school day, particularly during unmonitored times such as breaks and toilet visits. Within the GEMS network, patterns began to emerge: students frequently rushing to toilets in groups, particularly during lesson times, raising suspicion. Even with limited direct evidence, the implications were unmistakable, we needed to act. Firm Measures, Clear Results Our first step was the installation of vape detection alarms in student toilets, a rollout that will expand across our network in the coming year. These devices brought the accountability we needed. Alongside the launch of the GEMS zero-tolerance policy, students quickly understood the seriousness of our commitment. Within weeks, vape- related incidents dropped sharply. In the first month alone, we saw a significant decrease in alerts, with numbers remaining consistently low. By the start of the 2025/26 academic year, our goal is to make vape alarms redundant. However, technology alone was not enough. Education proved critical. In many schools, we invited health professionals and addiction specialists to speak directly to students, highlighting the hidden dangers of vaping. The results were immediate, not only did alerts drop further, but students also began self-referring, seeking help for nicotine dependency. This was a turning point. By creating safe spaces for open dialogue, we built trust between staff and students, shifting the focus from punishment to prevention.
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Student made designs for the outer casing of vapes to deter young people. Posters made to stop and make our young people think before they puff.
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“We needed mor and reminders. W daily structures t young people.”
Structural Changes to Discourage Misuse Inspired by urban design initiatives in the UK- such as Croydon’s use of outdoor gyms and activity zones to reduce youth loitering - GEMS Wellington Academy, one of our premium schools, adopted a similar mindset. We redesigned toilets, replacing large, multi-cubicle layouts with single, private units, monitored by CCTV at entry points
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