‘EXTRA TIME’ with MESBN Founding Member Devesh Nihalani -Regional Head of Vayu Technology

Enhancing Physical Education and Literacy in UAE schools through Technology

Equilibrium by Vayu Technology offers a suite of digital solutions designed for quick, convenient, and insightful physical assessments of large groups in minimal time.

Currently , the reporting and assessment of physical education in many UAE schools suffer from a significant lack of objectivity. PE is often perceived as optional exercise, rather than a vital component of holistic student development. This perception is exacerbated by by a scarcity of meaningful data to track individual student progress. Without robust data, it becomes challenging for teachers to effectively guide interventions, identify students who need additional

support, and demonstrate the tangible impact of physical activity on overall well-being and academic performance. Furthermore, the subjective nature of current assessments can hinder effective talent identification, potentially overlooking shy or less outwardly confident students who might possess athletic potential, an area where technology can provide objective insights and open up new opportunities.

Furthermore, this data would be usable at a macro level, allowing stakeholders to

track yearly progress for every cohort of students, similar to classroom subjects. We saw this in action with a high-performance tennis academy we collaborated with. Through regular monitoring, they were able to identify an increased risk of injury to young players during tournament season, allowing them to adjust training to keep players fit and winning. Similarly, an after school basketball program found an incredible upswing in results by simply identifying and consequently correcting the poor single leg balance of the team over the course of 2 months.

The integration of AI, as mandated by the UAE government, can further amplify these benefits. AI-powered analytics can identify patterns in student data, predict potential health risks, and recommend targeted interventions. Imagine AI systems analyzing student movement patterns to suggest specific exercises for improving motor skills, or generating personalized feedback on activity levels.

UAE schools and academic institutions have a golden opportunity to lead the way in a technological transformation of physical education. By embracing innovative solutions they can not only align with government directives but also position themselves as pioneers. Being at the forefront of this movement will demonstrate a deep commitment to the physical development and overall well-being of their students, ultimately contributing to a healthier, more educated

generation in the UAE.