Paris: Qun Chen, Assistant Director-General for Education at the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), met with Dr. Khalifa Al Suwaidi, Secretary-General and Executive Director of Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation for Medical and Educational Sciences, at UNESCO headquarters in Paris. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the International Jury meeting for the UNESCO-Hamdan Prize for Teacher Development.
According to Emirates News Agency, the discussion focused on strengthening the strategic partnership between UNESCO and the Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation for Medical and Educational Sciences. Both parties explored future cooperation to support international efforts in teacher development, expert exchange, and initiatives to improve education quality.
During the meeting, Dr. Al Suwaidi conveyed greetings and congratulations from Sheikh Rashid bin Hamdan Al Maktoum, Supreme Chairman of the Foundation, to Qun Chen on his appointment. Dr. Al Suwaidi also outlined key joint projects and initiatives with UNESCO, emphasizing the UNESCO-Hamdan Prize for Teacher Development.
Dr. Khalifa Al Suwaidi stated that the partnership with UNESCO underscores the Foundation’s commitment to advancing education and empowering teachers. He highlighted the importance of reviewing the progress of their cooperation and exploring new prospects through the UNESCO-Hamdan Prize as a platform for recognizing impactful teacher development initiatives.
Dr. Al Suwaidi further emphasized the significance of teacher development in enhancing education quality. He expressed the Foundation’s dedication to collaborating with international partners to exchange expertise and support practices that empower teachers globally, valuing the ongoing cooperation with UNESCO.
Qun Chen praised the prize and its achievements in supporting teacher development. He noted the valuable collaboration between UNESCO and the Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation since 2008, focusing on teacher empowerment and continuous learning, especially for marginalized groups. He highlighted the contribution of such initiatives to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 4.
His Excellency Qun Chen also acknowledged the Foundation’s leadership in promoting educational excellence and expanding effective solutions. He expressed appreciation for the Foundation’s educational support efforts.
At the meeting’s conclusion, Qun Chen received a commemorative shield from the Foundation, presented by Dr. Khalifa Al Suwaidi, symbolizing the cooperation and partnership between the two entities.