Dubai: Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation for Medical and Educational Sciences organised the 'Pioneers of Excellence Forum' initiative, featuring participation from 23 educational excellence award winners and educational coordinators from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.
According to Emirates News Agency, the forum was held as part of an interactive programme leading up to the award's closing ceremony. The initiative aimed to facilitate the exchange of expertise among distinguished participants, emphasize the impact of educational awards on teaching practices, and support the development of a Gulf network focused on educational excellence.
The Foundation's efforts extended the impact of its educational awards by creating a professional platform for winners and educational coordinators. This platform enabled participants to share inspiring experiences, discuss emerging educational trends, and explore leading educational models and innovative practices that can enhance school environments.
The programme commenced with an introductory tour of the Zayed Educational Complex in Al Barsha, catering to students in the second and third cycles. Participants explored the complex's facilities and educational experiences; teachers observed live classroom models, while students engaged in applied workshops that showcased modern learning environments and innovative educational practices.
The visit offered participants insights into an advanced Emirati educational experience and opened channels for dialogue on leveraging successful models to support educational development across GCC institutions.
The forum concluded with an interactive panel discussion, during which award winners shared experiences following their recognition, reflected on the awards' impact on their professional and personal journeys, and discussed future educational opportunities to promote excellence and innovation in the GCC.
Dr. Khalifa Al Suwaidi, Executive Director of the Foundation, stated, 'The Pioneers of Excellence Forum reflects the Foundation's mission to support educational excellence and create effective spaces for exchanging expertise among distinguished educators across the Gulf. Awards go beyond celebrating achievements; they facilitate knowledge transfer, strengthen professional dialogue, and amplify successful practices to advance education and enhance its outcomes.'
Al Suwaidi further added that the initiative combined field-based exposure with open dialogue, providing participants the opportunity to exchange perspectives on the future of education, explore practical models for further development, and support the formation of an engaged Gulf network committed to excellence and innovation.