Opinion
Teachers - Future makers and drivers of change in education
Aligned with Qatar Foundation’s Pre-University Education vision extending to 2040, Abeer al-Khalifa, President of Pre-University Education, QF, emphasises the need for system-wide transformation and highlights the crucial role of teachers in driving this change
October 21, 2024 | 11:59 PM
In light of the ongoing challenges facing the education sector, it is evident that transformation is inevitable. In a rapidly evolving world, where educational systems are constantly being reshaped, creating a flexible and forward-looking framework has become essential. As always, Qatar continues to lead the way, embracing and keeping pace with these changes.At the core of this transformation are the teachers—cornerstones who play a vital role in making these changes a reality by motivating students and guiding them toward acquiring the skills needed for the future. For us, change is not optional but essential, as we navigate both present challenges and future aspirations.Amid these dynamic changes, I believe education serves as a guiding light toward a better future. Accordingly, Qatar Foundation (QF)’s Pre-University Education is updating an ambitious vision that extends to 2040. Our vision goes beyond theoretical planning; it is a commitment to future generations—providing a comprehensive educational environment that fosters academic excellence, develops cultivates essential life skills, and instils a deep sense of belonging and responsibility.The process of educational development is challenging, but fundamental to building a better future. Each student is unique, with individual talents and abilities that require an enriching educational environment tailored to their specific needs. This is where teachers come in, fostering creativity and implementing innovative teaching methods that recognise individual differences and help students reach their full potential.In Qatar Foundation’s Pre-University Education, we believe that learning is more than a tool for transferring knowledge. It is a transformative force that fuels the creativity of the gifted, supports those facing learning challenges, and cultivates a society that is knowledgeable, forward-thinking, and innovative. We envision education as a beacon for future generations, providing them with the tools to contribute to a more informed and sustainable global community.Moreover, the role of education extends beyond our nation; it reaches globally. In this era of globalisation and interconnectedness, we must instil in students the principles of global citizenship, helping them understand their place in a wider international community. We must also teach them to recognize the needs of children in marginalised communities around the world. These children need more than just education — they need hope, and hope begins with knowledge and learning.At the same time, while we encourage our students to think globally, we must ensure that our students must remain firmly rooted in their Islamic values, as these principles guide their actions with compassion, responsibility, and service to others. By upholding these values, our students will become not just knowledgeable but also empathetic leaders committed to making a positive impact on both local and global communities.When I look into the eyes of our students, I see the future, and I am certain that education is the path to a brighter tomorrow. While our primary mission is to impart knowledge to the younger generation, we also bear the responsibility of nurturing compassionate and innovative global citizens. We are all partners in this journey — leaders, teachers, students, and parents — united in transforming education into a platform for changing the world. Through education, we are building a bridge to prosperity and progress, determined to create a thriving nation that celebrates its children’s successes.To conclude, I reaffirm the indispensable role of teachers as the backbone of the educational process. It is through their dedication that generations are shaped and equipped to face future challenges and devise innovative solutions. Teachers bridge the gap between academic curricula and practical reality, instilling in students a love for learning and a spirit of innovation. Without teachers, our most ambitious ideas would remain unfulfilled. They are the catalysts of progress and the driving force for achieving a comprehensive and progressive educational vision.
October 21, 2024 | 11:59 PM