Doha: The 14th ALECSO Conference of Arab Ministers of Education, started in Doha on Sunday.
According to Qatar News Agency, the conference is organised by the Arab League Educational, Cultural and Scientific Organisation (ALECSO) in partnership with the Ministry of Education and Higher Education and the Qatar National Commission for Education, Culture and Science. It is held under the theme ‘Comprehensive education and empowering teachers: a strategic vision for education in the Arab world’.
In his opening speech, HE Undersecretary of the MOEHE, Dr. Ibrahim bin Saleh Al Nuaimi, emphasized that the conference serves as a platform for educational leaders to exchange experiences, review successful initiatives, and learn about the latest developments in education. It also aims to build effective partnerships with countries and regional and international organizations in the field of education.
His Excellency highlighted the growing importance of joint action to ensure the provision of quality and comprehensive education in light of challenges faced by some Arab countries due to crises and conflicts. He indicated that education is a key tool towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly the fourth goal, which focuses on inclusive and quality education for all and promoting lifelong learning opportunities.
He stressed that education is more than just transferring knowledge; it is a foundation that enables individuals to reach their full potential and enhances societal well-being. Comprehensive education must reach everyone, without discrimination based on gender, race, disability, or economic status.
Dr. Al Nuaimi added that comprehensive education requires innovative strategies that go beyond traditional classrooms and stressed the need to provide educational environments that support all students, including those facing special challenges. This approach helps in building strong societies and promotes values of tolerance and mutual respect.
The third national strategy of the State of Qatar (2024-2030) was highlighted, emphasizing the provision of a world-class education system that guarantees fair opportunities for all. This includes enabling learners to acquire skills and competencies necessary for building their societies and contributing to a sustainable and knowledge-based future.
Dr. Al Nuaimi explained that rapid developments in science, technology, and innovation necessitate flexible educational systems capable of keeping pace with progress while addressing challenges related to the unsafe use of technology. In 2022, Qatar’s Ministry of Education and Higher Education launched the National E-Learning Strategy, featuring initiatives like the Qatar Education Platform and Cybersecurity Curricula to enhance digital transformation and ensure safe technology use.
He stressed that advancing education requires prioritizing educators, enabling them to adapt to modern educational trends. Providing professional development programs ensures educators can engage with the latest educational trends constructively and continuously. Initiatives such as “Expertise,” “Professionalization,” and “Empowerment” programs, along with granting professional licenses to teachers and school leaders, are part of this effort.
Dr. Al Nuaimi concluded by highlighting the commitment to promoting comprehensive and digital education, emphasizing that contributions from civil society institutions and the private sector are also essential.