Abu Dhabi's first doctors are truly heroes

I write to you in reference to your article Crown Prince thanks family of Abu Dhabi's first doctors (December 24): I read The National e-paper every day in London and was especially interested to read about the renamed Kennedy Hospital.

I lived in Al Ain when the Kennedys arrived in 1961. In fact, I helped them put together their first barusti consulting room. There are some excellent photographs I took, which are held by the National Archives. Some were printed in my book All Our Yesterdays, published by the National Centre for Documentation and Research, as the National Archives were then known.

Under the very wise leadership of Sheikh Zayed, whom I knew personally, the arrival of the Kennedys marked a significant step forward for Abu Dhabi, especially in terms of women’s health.

Anthony Rundell, London

Tim Clark has left a unique legacy at Emirates and will be missed

I write to you in reference to Deena Kamel's piece Emirates chief Tim Clark to retire in June 2020 (December 24): the announced retirement of stalwart airline chief Tim Clark from his position as president of Emirates was sad to read.

With three-and-a-half decades of experience and a vision that helped Emirates airline flourish, Mr Clark will be dearly missed.

His departure is a great loss to the airline but his wisdom will always be remembered.

K Ragavan, Bengaluru

We must reduce stress levels at schools so that children stay happy

I write to you in reference to Daniel Sanderson's piece UAE schools improve in maths but lag behind in reading and science, international rankings show (December 3).

Competition in the school system should be healthy and not stress-inducing for children.

A system should be set up to support pupils so that schoolwork does not stress them out.

If they fail a test, they should know it is just an exam and not a life-threatening ordeal. They can always get better grades next time.

Intelligent students who are struggling financially should get access to more scholarships so that they get an opportunity to educate themselves and build a better society.

Children need space, love and trust from their parents and they will be empowered to achieve great things.

Lamiya Siraj, Abu Dhabi