IB Results 2023: UAE IB students have shown “remarkable resilience”, says Chair of IB Heads Association

As the IBDP and IBCP results roll out today and tomorrow, statements have started to come in from educationalists and teachers responding to the performance of this year’s May 2023 cohort.

One of the first among them is a comment from Richard Drew, Principal of Jumeira Baccalaureate School, and Chair of the IB Heads Association for the UAE. 

While the pandemic might seem like a distant memory to us now, it’s easy to forget that students were still grappling with intermittent online schooling and disruption at the beginning of this school year.

Richard Drew is Principal of Jumeira Baccalaureate School

Mr Drew shares his thoughts on the resilience of the IB students in the face of adversity, and congratulates them on their impressive results this year:

“Today, we celebrate the outstanding achievements of the students in the UAE who have successfully completed their International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma amid unprecedented challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. As the Chair of the IB Heads Association for the UAE, I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the students, their families, and the dedicated educators who have supported them throughout this journey.

“The past couple of years have posed significant disruptions to traditional learning and examination patterns. The global health crisis forced schools to adapt swiftly to remote and hybrid learning environments, creating an entirely new set of challenges for students and teachers alike. Despite these hurdles, our resilient IB students have demonstrated incredible perseverance, adaptability, and determination to succeed.

“An IB education is not merely about academic excellence but also about nurturing well-rounded individuals with a strong sense of character and a broad perspective on the world. Through the rigorous IB curriculum, students are encouraged to become critical thinkers, effective communicators, and compassionate global citizens. These qualities have proven invaluable during these uncertain times, empowering students to navigate through the complexities of the pandemic and emerge as stronger individuals.

 

“The resilience shown by our IB students is a testament to the support and guidance provided by their schools, teachers, and parents. Our educators have exhibited unwavering dedication and creativity in ensuring that learning continued seamlessly despite the challenges posed by the pandemic. Their commitment to fostering a nurturing and inclusive learning environment has played a vital role in the success of our students.

“Today’s results are a reflection of the exceptional abilities and personal growth of our students, who have embraced the IB mission and embodied its core values throughout their academic journey. These young individuals have not only achieved remarkable academic milestones but have also developed crucial life skills, including critical thinking, empathy, and intercultural understanding, which will serve them well in their future endeavors.

“On behalf of the IB Heads Association for the UAE, I extend my sincere congratulations to all the students who have completed their IB Diploma. Your determination, adaptability, and resilience are an inspiration to us all. I also want to express my deep appreciation to the educators and families who have played a significant role in supporting our students during these challenging times.”

Richard Drew is Principal of Jumeira Baccalaureate School and Chair of the IB Heads Association for the UAE