More than AED 570,000 was awarded at the annual awards ceremony
Mohammed Abusenen of Dubai's GEMS United School named the Most Inspirational Teacher of the Year AED220,000

Dubai, UAE: Celebrating the teaching profession and the role of teachers in shaping the new generation, GEMS Education organized the fourth edition of the annual Mariamma Varkey Awards for Motivation, and Outstanding Teaching. A red carpet ceremony was held at GEMS World Academy in Dubai on 3 October 2019, attended by a senior leadership team of GEMS Education.

This year, 45 teachers were nominated in different categories for their year-long motivation to motivate students and colleagues. Mohammed Abusenenh from GEMS United School was announced as the most inspirational teacher. Mohammed's work has transformed inside and outside the classroom over the past three years. His student said, Not only does knowledge regenerate, but his classes extend to thinking, reacting, imagining and creating, and this has had a clear impact, with steady progress in the development and attainment of Arabic and Islamic languages. Outside the classroom, Mohammed is involved in everything from coaching football teams to KHDA team participation and his commitment to educating the community on Islamic values and Arab culture is evident in many efforts, notably the school's first student run national day celebration.

Four were honored for their outstanding dedication to the holistic development of students. The five winners are: Annamma Lucy of our own English High School (boys) - Sharjah (teaching early and Primary years); Ayesha Aslam of GEMS Westminster School - Sharjah (second year); Elspeth Mackie GEMS Wellington Academy-Al Khail (Inclusion); And Ramy Wagdy Aboudishdish of Cambridge International School-Dubai (Arabic & Islamic). Each received an AED 88,080 cash prize with a quote. Total cash prizes awarded through awards exceed AED 570,000.

Dino Varkey, Chief Executive Officer of GEMS Education, said: The Mariamma Varkey Award recognizes the exceptional commitment of educators who have helped develop the personal and academic development of students. It enabled them to achieve success and unlock their full potential. We firmly believe that the influence of teachers is the driving force of student success. With these awards, we celebrate the profound impact they have had on shaping the future generation of our teachers. The Mariamma Varkey Award is particularly close to my heart because it reflects the high standards set by my grandmother when she came to Dubai as a teacher 60 years ago. Thanks to his efforts and unwavering vision, GEMS education is what it is today, and we are delighted to present this special award in his honor.

When she won the Most Inspiring Editor's Award; Mohammad Abusenenh said: After winning this prestigious award, I feel overwhelmed with pride and joy, and it motivates me to give more and more to do better over the years. First of all, I would like to thank my dear students who have contributed to my success and to my fellow teachers and my school who have supported me to come here tonight. Thanks to GEMS Education for this wonderful opportunity, I am so happy to be here and celebrate with my family and friends. "
Teachers were nominated on specific criteria and had to demonstrate significant impact on their students and the wider community, while challenging students to engage in their learning using pioneering, creative, inclusive and innovative educational practices. In addition, recommended teachers should be reflective coaches who will continue to inspire and motivate students and colleagues, while parents engage in the development of their children's learning.