It’s not enough for students to only know facts

Education is a partnership between all members of society, a reder says. Other topics: WHO alert on meat, Dubai, Emirati entrepreneur

Education is a partnership between all members of society, a reader says. Reem Mohammed / The National

Teachers must address the "why do I need to know this stuff" question (Ministry of Education recruits engineers to guide students, October 28). It is not enough for students to simply know facts to earn high marks in exams. They must also be able to demonstrate how the facts are applied in real world situations. This applies to all subjects, not just Stem. Education is a partnership between all members of society, not just the teacher and pupil.

Anita Welch, Dubai

Verdict on food is contradictory

I refer to your editorial Meat plays a role in healthy living (October 28). Fortunately, I don't eat meat, so I need not worry. I find it ironic, though, that only two days ago you were calling for restrictions on advertising fast food – often based on processed meat – but are now reassuring readers it's perfectly fine to consume cancer-causing food.

Jeffrey Martin, Dubai

There is no place like Dubai

In response to the letters on the editorial A view from afar (October 21), I would like to reiterate that I am proud that I was born and raised in Dubai and have always considered it my home. I think it is one of the best places in the world to live and work. I agree that the article by the British writer is rubbish.

However, there is one thing that I have witnessed at the airport in Dubai on more than one occasion and feel it gives out a wrong impression about the emirate. Just a couple of days ago, I was at Terminal 1 waiting in the queue for my immigration when I heard an officer at a counter yell at a man who had unknowingly crossed the yellow waiting line. The man was left embarrassed while I kept thinking if such behaviour was acceptable.

This behaviour was repeated by another officer who shouted at another man and spoke to him very rudely.

I wasn’t quick to reach any conclusion since I know the real Dubai and its friendly citizens who are very accommodating. But for first-timers, it didn’t leave a good impression.

Fatima Suhail, Sharjah

You will be hard pressed to find a perfect place in the world. I have been here for 18 months and I love it. I have enjoyed every emirate. I plan to stay as long as I am employable. Open mindedness and a positive attitude is required to enjoy any place you visit.

David W Blandford, Dubai

I read the article on Dubai and that’s one man’s opinion. There have always been people like him and there always will be. But it’s undeniable that this is one of the greatest places to live. I can say this as I have travelled to many countries in the world. People like the journalist in question should highlight the job opportunities that thousands of unskilled expatriates are given here.

Ghaith Zeidan, Dubai

Entrepreneur is an inspiration

The more you give the more you get (The culture of giving, October 24). May the restaurateur who gives free food to the poor get success and prosperity in his business.

Prem Kumar Limbu, Dubai

The gesture of the Emirati entrepreneur has inspired me to think of establishing a charitable school here for the middle-income people.

I want that school to meet high standards.

Abbas Ali, Dubai

Hopefully people will not abuse this gesture of generosity and also not waste the food they are served with. May God bless him.

Mj Uy, Philippines

The world moves because of these good Samaritans. I hope he inspires many more people to help the poor.

Mathew Litty, Dubai