Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, received the organisers and participants of the Qudwa education forum on Monday at a Sea Palace Barza in Abu Dhabi.
During the meeting, Sheikh Mohamed was given a framed photograph of his former teacher, Ahmed Al Tamimi, by Mohammed Al Nuaimi, director of the education office at the Crown Prince Court and director of the forum.
The picture showed Mr Al Tamimi and a young Sheikh Mohamed outside Al Kindi School in April 1971.
Sheikh Mohamed said teachers are key to creating a generation of leaders armed with the best scientific knowledge and the latest skills.
"Teaching is not a job, but a noble message that shapes the minds and thoughts of present and future generations who are the backbone of development, progress and civilisation in any country," he said.
"No matter how advanced modern teaching methods and tools are, the role of the teacher remains essential and fundamental to the educational system."
He also met ministers from around the world who took part in the World Road Congress meetings this week in the capital.
He wished them a pleasant stay in the UAE and luck in their quest to find effective solutions to transport issues worldwide.
Sheikh Mohamed said the development of a country cannot be achieved without sophisticated infrastructure and transport routes.
A delegation from the Arab Parliament also attended the Sea Palace Barza on Monday.
They met Sheikh Mohamed before the launch of the Arab Document on Women's Rights in the UAE. Dr Amal Al Qubaisi, Speaker of the Federal National Council, accompanied the delegation.
During the meeting, they spoke about the Arab Parliament's collaborative role with Arab governments in addressing the challenges faced by the region.
Sheikh Mohamed said the Arab Parliament was vital to strengthening intra-Arab relations.
