A dedicated Dubai teacher was "overwhelmed with joy and pride" after being named the most inspirational in the emirate at a ceremony celebrating the profession's brightest and best.
Mohammad Abusenenh secured the accolade of 'Most Inspirational Teacher' at an annual awards event organised by leading private education provider, Gems Education.
Mr Abusenenh was honoured at the Mariamma Varkey Awards for Inspirational and Outstanding Teaching for helping children at Gems United School unlock their potential through his determination and innovation.
He received the Dh220,000 top prize after being hailed for his academic excellence.
“I feel overwhelmed with pride and joy after winning this prestigious award and it motivates me for years to come to do better and give more," said Mr Abusenenh.
"I would like to thank first and foremost my dear students who are the reason behind my success, and I would like to thank my fellow teachers and my school for supporting me to get here."
A total of 45 teachers representing Gems schools were nominated in different categories at the red carpet evening, held at Gems World Academy in Dubai.
Mr Abusenenh was praised for his work both in and out of the classroom.
As well as steadily improving grades through thoughtful lesson plans which learners said challenged them to improve, the popular staff member also helps out with coaching football and champions Islamic values through a host of initiatives including being a guiding influence in the school's first student-run National Day celebrations.
Four other teachers also won awards for their achievements; Annamma Lucy, of Our Own English High School (boys) in Sharjah, Ayesha Aslam, of GEMS Westminster School in Sharjah, Elspeth Mackie of GEMS Wellington Academy-Al Khail, and Ramy Wagdy Aboudishdish, of Cambridge International School-Dubai.
Each received Dh88,080 in cash, along with a citation.
Dino Varkey, chief executive of GEMS Education, said it was important to recognise the work of teachers in shaping the minds of the next generation.
“The Mariamma Varkey Award recognises the exceptional commitment of educators who have helped foster both the personal and academic growth of their students," said Mr Varkey.
"They enabled them to achieve success and unlock their full potential. We strongly believe that the influence of teachers is the driving force of student success.
"With these awards, we celebrate our teachers for the profound impact they have on shaping the future generation of our students.
“The Mariamma Varkey Award is particularly close to my heart, as it reflects the high standards set by my grandmother when she first arrived in Dubai as a teacher 60 years ago. Thanks to her efforts and unwavering vision, GEMS Education is what it is today, and it gives us great pleasure to host this special award in her honour.”
Teachers were nominated for demonstrating an ability to make a positive impact on pupils and the wider community while employing pioneering, creative, inclusive and innovative teaching methods.
