Condolences for staff at school of murdered teacher Ibolya Ryan

Dr Amal Al Qubaisi, director general of Adec, visited teachers and staff at the school where Mrs Ryan worked.

ABU DHABI // The emirate’s top education leader visited the school of slain teacher Ibolya Ryan to console staff for their loss.

Dr Amal Al Qubaisi, director general of the Abu Dhabi Education Council, extended her condolences to teachers and staff at the Al Oula School in the Al Shawamikh area in Bani Yas, where Mrs Ryan had worked as a kindergarten teacher since last year.

Mrs Ryan, an American mother of three children, was the victim of a gruesome murder that occurred in an Al Reem Island mall last Monday. An Emirati woman has been arrested in connection with the fatal stabbing and subsequent failed bomb attempt at the home of an Egyptian-American doctor.

On Sunday Dr Al Qubaisi said that Adec has lost a loyal teacher who will always be remembered for her passion and dedication in teaching.

“Any harm inflicted on any educator affects each and every member of our big family,” said Dr Al Qubaisi.

“I am sure that the spirit of cooperation among all Adec staff, Emiratis and expatriates, who embody teamwork, loyalty and compassion, will not be affected by such a tragic incident.

“Adec has always been keen to support teachers in order to overcome any challenges or obstacles they may face.”

The education regulator will continue to provide support and care for the family members of the victim until they overcome “this critical period,” Dr Al Qubaisi said.

The director general also commended the support provided to the Abu Dhabi education sector by President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed and Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, Abu Dhabi Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces and chairman of the Abu Dhabi Education Council.

“Our UAE society is known for its tolerance and harmony towards all nationalities. We are a country that respects and encourages all cultures to live in peace and security. UAE will continue to be a safe place for different nationalities to safely live and work in,” said Dr Al Qubaisi. “We worked as one team to overcome this challenge and security forces proved their efficiency and preparedness towards any type of security threat.”

She also thanked the Abu Dhabi Police, led by Sheikh Saif bin Zayed, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, for their tireless efforts in swiftly identifying and arresting the suspect.

“It was impressive that His Highness Sheikh Saif personally followed up the incident, announced the findings, called the victim’s family and made sure that her children receive the necessary support and care needed,” said Dr Al Qubaisi.

The Al Oula kindergarten teachers thanked the director general for her condolences and warm support.

“We have always felt safe and welcomed in the UAE, and this will not change. The achievement made by the Abu Dhabi Police is remarkable and makes us feel even safer,” they said.