Today's Edition
A.SREENIVASA REDDY (ABU DHABI)
An Emirati teacher is among the 50 shortlisted for the $1 million GEMS Education Global Teacher Prize.
Moza Mohammed Rashid Saadan Al Hafiti, a teacher at Zayed Educational Complex, Dibba Al Fujairah, was selected from over 5,000 nominations spanning 89 countries, a statement from GEMS Education said.
Of the 50 short-listed teachers, 11 are from Asia, 7 from Africa, 12 from Europe, 11 from Latin America, 6 from North America and 3 from Australia and New Zealand.
The $1 million Global Teacher Prize, an initiative by the Varkey Foundation in collaboration with UNESCO, seeks to honour an exceptional teacher who has made a significant contribution to the profession while highlighting the vital role teachers play in society.
Since its inception in 2014, the Global Teacher Prize has received over 100,000 applications and nominations worldwide for the prestigious award.
Reacting to her shortlisting, Al Hafiti said: “I am deeply humbled to be in the top 50 shortlist for the Global Teacher Prize. I am honoured to be named alongside so many inspirational educators from around the world.”
According to the statement, Al Hafiti is an award-winning educator known for her innovative teaching methods and dedication to inclusive education. Her approach emphasises creating engaging, technology-driven learning environments, leading to an 88% improvement in diagnostic test scores. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she implemented virtual learning, which continues to benefit students. Beyond the classroom, she mentors teachers, develops curricula, and spearheads national educational initiatives.
Recognised as a Microsoft Innovative Educator Expert, Al Hafiti also pioneered the development of an interactive prayer carpet, earning intellectual property rights. Her accolades include the Hamdan bin Rashid Award for Distinguished Teacher and the Mohammed Bin Zayed Award for Best Gulf Teacher.
Sunny Varkey, Founder of the Global Teacher Prize and Chairman of the Varkey Foundation, said: “The Global Teacher Prize was created to spotlight the critical role of education in addressing the major challenges of our time. I congratulate all top 50 finalists, who are joining a global community of educators leading the way to build a better future.”
Stefania Giannini, UNESCO Assistant Director-General for Education, added: “UNESCO is proud to support the Global Teacher Prize, which honours the dedication and impact of teachers worldwide. Recognising and investing in teachers is essential to building a just, inclusive, and sustainable future.”
Applicants for the prize are evaluated based on their teaching practices, innovation in addressing local challenges, measurable learning outcomes, community impact, efforts to help children become global citizens, contributions to improving the teaching profession, and recognition by external organisations.
The prize will next be narrowed down to the top 10 finalists, to be announced in late January. The winner will be selected by the Global Teacher Prize Academy, composed of prominent individuals, and will be revealed at the World Government Summit in Dubai, from February 10 to 13.
