Baz Nijjar

Baz is currently Principal Advisor – Education Technology for GEMS Education, overseeing the collaborations between the education and technology departments across the GEMS
network of schools.

Baz moved to Dubai in 2015 with his family. After qualifying as an outstanding rated teacher in Durham – UK, he held leadership positions including Associate Officer at Durham Local
Education Authority. He was formerly Assistant Principal Specialism and Head of Centre of Excellence at FirstPoint School, and previous to that the Innovation Lead at Jumeirah College
and TELLAL IT/CS Network Leader for GEMS.

Baz is recognised for his innovative approach to creating links between education and industry needs, and has successfully embedded pioneering initiatives across the region. He
also launched the first industry partnered internship programs within school time in support of the KHDA Rahhal 10x initiative, including the first Emirati student internship embedded
within a school timetable. Baz launched the first esports and game design qualifications in the region, as well as key partnerships in technology to support student provision and the
development of industry level skills.

His research interests include award-winning blended learning models, innovation in enhancing education related outcomes and engaging the youth, and industry and education
collaborations – which includes first use in the UAE for school-based industry qualifications. Baz believes that education should always look to integrate real-world, current and future
industry needs to better prepare our children for the future.