DUBAI // Applications and nominations opened on Monday for a US$1 million teacher’s award.
The Varkey Gems Foundation Global Teacher Prize will be given to an exceptional teacher who has made an outstanding contribution to the profession. Sunny Varkey, the foundation’s founder, announced the opening of the nominations process at the Global Education Skills Forum in Dubai.
“I want to draw attention to the achievements of teachers and the enormous impact they have on all of our lives. They must be returned to their rightful position as the most respected profession in society, which is properly rewarded and celebrated,” Mr Varkey said.
The winner should have achieved exceptional results in student learning, won the respect of the community and served as a role model to other teachers.
The award is offered under the patronage of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai.
The prize, worth Dh3.67 million, is open to teachers whose pupils are in compulsory schooling or are under the age of 18, in any kind of school in any country.
The application and nomination period runs until August 31 and the winner will be announced at next year’s GESF.
A judging committee is scheduled to meet in October to choose 10 candidates for a shortlist, with the winner chosen the following month.
Teachers can apply or members of the public can nominate them at globalteacherprize.com.
The winner will receive the prize money in instalments over 10 years and will receive financial counselling from the foundation.
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