Abu dhabi: Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Khalifa Award for Education, honoured 40 winners at the local, Arab, and international levels during the 19th edition of the award. This year's ceremony, which took place at Emirates Palace, celebrated achievements in various educational categories, including 25 winners from the UAE, four distinguished Emirati families, 11 winners from the Arab world, and four recipients of the Khalifa International Award for Early Learning from the United States and the United Kingdom.
According to Emirates News Agency, the event was highlighted by the honouring of H.H. Sheikha Mariam bint Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who received the Distinguished Educational Personality Award for 2026. Her recognition underscores her efforts in shaping a national education model that aligns with the UAE's values and future goals, particularly the UAE Centennial 2071 agenda.
The ceremony began with the UAE national anthem, followed by a documentary film showcasing the UAE's strides in early childhood education and the Khalifa Award's role in enhancing educational quality. Sheikh Nahyan emphasized education's importance in the UAE's development strategy, inspired by the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. He highlighted the award's impact on promoting educational excellence and innovation since its inception in 2007.
Sheikh Nahyan also acknowledged President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan's commitment to education as a driver of national progress and sustainable development. The awards reflect the Khalifa Award's esteemed status and its contribution to global educational initiatives, with this year's edition receiving nominations from 52 countries.
The event recognized individuals and institutions excelling in various educational fields. Honorees in the General Education Field included teachers and institutions demonstrating outstanding performance and innovation. Notable winners were recognized for their contributions in categories such as the Innovation in Arabic Language Teaching Field, the People of Determination Field, and the Education and Community Service Field.
At the international level, the Khalifa International Award for Early Learning acknowledged achievements in educational research and innovative practices. Winners from the United States and the United Kingdom were celebrated for their contributions to early childhood development and educational methodologies.
The ceremony concluded with Humaid Ibrahim Al-Houti presenting the Khalifa Award for Education shield to Sheikh Nahyan in appreciation of his ongoing support, followed by a commemorative photograph with the winners.
