ABU DHABI // Under the slogan "Distinguish Yourself", the fourth edition of the annual Khalifa Award for Education was launched last night. From only five categories in its inaugural year when it was open to just UAE nationals and residents, the latest edition of the award will accept entries from educators across the Arab world in 11 categories.
"Our main goals of this award are to highlight the importance of those working in education and to encourage the development of a modern atmosphere of learning in our schools and universities," said Amal al Afifi, the secretary general of the Khalifa Award for Education, during the launch conference at the Emirates Palace yesterday. The award categories are: public education; higher education within the UAE and the Arab world; special needs; creating knowledge networks; new media and education; education and the sustainable environment; education and community service; educational research; projects and innovative educational programmes; educational writing for children; and written work about the sponsor of the award, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE.
The Khalifa Award for Education was created in 2007 with the aim of inspiring more Emiratis to join the teaching profession and to help raise standards throughout the Arab world. A variety of educators are eligible to win, including those who run school laboratories or libraries, school principals and teachers, and university professors who distinguish themselves in their teaching and research. Last year, the award was valued at Dh1.75 million (US$476,000). Out of 259 applications from across the Arab world, 26 winners were selected and received cash prizes ranging from Dh50,000 to Dh200,000 each.
Entries and nominations will be accepted from today until January 20. Applicants will be screened and evaluated between January 23 and March 31. The winners will be announced in April. @Email:hkhalaf@thenational.ae
