Qatar highlights challenges faced by education sector

Qatar has chaired the 14th session of the Arab League Educational, Cultural and Scientific Organisation (Alecso) Conference for Arab Ministers of Education, held under the title, "Inclusive Education and Empowering Teachers: A Strategic Vision for Education in the Arab World." The conference was organised by Alecso in partnership with Qatar's Ministry of Education and Higher Education, as well as Qatar National Commission for Education, Culture, and Science.

In her opening speech, HE the Minister of Education and Higher Education and Chairperson of Qatar National Commission for Education, Culture, and Science, Lolwah bint Rashid bin Mohammed AlKhater, highlighted numerous challenges faced by the education sector worldwide, including in Arab countries.

She acknowledged the notable progress made since beginning of millennium in improving academic achievement and ensuring equal access to formal education. However, she also pointed out the barriers encountered, especially in keeping pace with rapidly advancing digital technology, expansion of scientific disciplines, and the need to train teachers capable of transferring knowledge to the next generation.

She explained that this conference represents an effort to enhance and develop the quality of education by providing an opportunity to exchange successful experiences and build effective partnerships between Arab countries. It also aims to review emerging trends in education and find innovative solutions to overcome challenges, ensuring a brighter future for future generations.

HE AlKhater emphasised that the theme of this years conference reflects an ambitious and renewed vision to achieve inclusive education as a fundamental right for all, and to empower teachers to become effective leaders in education.

She also stressed that education is a central pillar in achieving sustainable development and social justice due to its positive impact on building and developing individuals' capacities. It equips learners with the skills, knowledge, and values needed to drive the desired changes toward a more sustainable and prosperous future. High-quality education requires attention to teachers, who are the cornerstone of the educational process. This requires continuous training, professional development, and support, which enhances teachers' abilities to keep up with modern educational trends and technological developments, improving student outcomes.

She highlighted Qatar's initiatives aimed at empowering teachers both before and during their service, including (Tamheen), (Tamkeen), and (Leaders Pathway) programs through Teach for Qatar foundation, which prepares training programs designed for those looking to transition into the teaching profession and contribute to building the future.

HE AlKhater mentioned that numerous UN reports have indicated that 15mn children have left school due to escalating conflicts in the region, with the number expected to rise to 20mn in the next five years. She expressed hope that these conflicts, including the genocide against Palestinian people, will be resolved, allowing students to return to their schools and contribute to the development of their societies.

Moreover, she reviewed the significant efforts of Qatar Fund for Development, which has provided over $1bn in educational aid to more than 60 countries, as well as the work of "Education Above All" foundation through its "Educate a Child" initiative, which has enrolled over 15mn children in 57 countries around the world. These efforts reflect Qatar's steadfast commitment to supporting education both domestically and internationally.

Director-General of Alecso Dr Mohamed Ould Amar said in a speech that Qatar sets a model to be emulated in supporting and developing the education sector at all levels, appreciating the efforts of the Ministry of Education in adopting pioneering educational initiatives that enabled it to lead the global ranking of quality and excellence in education.

Minister Plenipotentiary and Director of the Education Department at the Arab League Dr Faraj al-Ajmi said that teachers play a pivotal role in promoting comprehensive education.

Moroccan Minister of National Education, Preschool, and Sports Mohamed Saad Berrada, president of the 13th Alecso conference, said that the Doha conference's theme was chosen to highlight the importance of supporting efforts for the reform and development underway here, as part of joint efforts to advance education in Arab countries.

In her remarks on the sidelines of the conference sessions, Assistant Undersecretary for Educational Affairs Maha Zayed Qaqaa al-Ruwaili emphasised that this event focuses in particular on discussing the best ways to develop educational policies, infrastructure, educational structures, human cadres, and curricula. (QNA)