“The strong global participation reflects the growing impact of the Hamdan–UNESCO Prize in advancing teaching excellence worldwide.”
International evaluation process for the Hamdan UNESCO Prize for Teacher Development sees strong global participation
Dubai, UAE: The international evaluation process for the Hamdan–UNESCO Prize for Teacher Development has officially begun, marking a key stage in recognising global initiatives that enhance teaching quality and educational practices.
The International Jury of the Hamdan–UNESCO Prize for Teacher Development convened its preliminary meeting to review the evaluation framework and assessment procedures, signalling the start of this year’s selection cycle. The meeting was held in the presence of Dr Khalifa Al Suwaidi, Executive Director of the Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation for Medical and Educational Sciences.
During the session, jury members examined the criteria and processes governing the evaluation of submitted projects, ensuring alignment with international standards and the prize’s objectives. The first phase of the assessment will be conducted remotely, followed by a second phase to be held in person at UNESCO headquarters in Paris in May.
This year’s edition of the prize has recorded a significant increase in global participation, with 169 applications received from 62 countries, representing a 66% rise compared to the previous cycle. The strong response underscores the award’s growing global recognition and its role in advancing innovative teaching practices.
Dr Al Suwaidi noted that the increasing number of submissions reflects the prize’s expanding global footprint and its impact on improving teacher performance and educational outcomes worldwide. He emphasised that the initiative continues to support the development of effective teaching methods and the exchange of best practices across different regions.
The Hamdan–UNESCO Prize for Teacher Development was established to promote excellence in teaching and learning and to support initiatives that improve the quality and effectiveness of education systems. The prize aligns with UNESCO’s Sustainable Development Goal 4, which aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education worldwide.
Through its international scope, the prize recognises organisations and institutions that demonstrate innovation in education, particularly those capable of delivering measurable impact and offering solutions adaptable across different educational environments.
The evaluation process is conducted by an independent international jury composed of experts in education and teaching development. Their role is to assess submissions based on innovation, impact and scalability, ensuring that selected projects represent meaningful contributions to the global education sector.
Officials also highlighted the importance of the long-standing partnership between the Hamdan Foundation and UNESCO, which has played a central role in strengthening the prize’s global credibility and outreach. This collaboration continues to support efforts to elevate educational standards and recognise outstanding contributions to teaching.
According to the official timeline, the results of the evaluation process will be approved by the Director-General of UNESCO on 5 October 2026, coinciding with World Teachers’ Day, with the winners to be announced during an official ceremony.
The prize is valued at US$300,000 and awarded equally among three winners, further reinforcing its status as one of the leading global awards in teacher development and educational innovation.
As the evaluation process progresses, the initiative continues to highlight the critical role of teachers in shaping future generations and strengthening education systems worldwide. The programme’s increasing participation reflects a growing global commitment to innovation in teaching and learning.
