Five community schools were opened in Abu Dhabi emirate on Sunday. Two opened in Al Ain, one in Abu Dhabi city and the remaining two schools in Al Dhafra. Community schools are newer public schools that have been enhanced by the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge. Pupils benefit from more activities and classes, while the school itself becomes a social centre for the community. Last year, Adek said it planned to transform 30 public schools into community schools in the capital by 2020. The schools are meant to serve as social hubs to meet community needs, enhance pupil-parent relationships and promote a culture of participation and engagement. The project focuses on six areas, including science, sports, health, culture, national identity, and pupils with special needs. Dr Yousef Al Sheryani, ADEK’s undersecretary, said the goal of the project is linked to the country's education vision because it promotes the role of a school as a cultural hub, while creating an attractive educational environment to support talented pupils. The new community schools in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi include: Mleih School in Abu Dhabi, Al Shaheen and Um Ghafa schools in Al Ain, Al Abbas Bin Abdul Muttalib School in Al Ruwais, and Dalma School in Dalma Island.