Marking World Teachers´ Day, 1,000 teachers finalize their training in Al- Qadisiyah on ICT-based distance learning (e-pedagogy)

Al- Qadisiyah, 6 October 2022 – Marking World Teachers´ Day Celebration on 5 October, the Directorate of Education (DoE) in Al- Qadisiyah Governorate finalized the training of 1,000 teachers on the ICT-based distance learning (e-pedagogy), implemented by UNICEF and UNESCO thanks to European Union funding. These 1,000 teachers are part of the roll-out of the training for 4,000 teachers who are about to finalize their training on improved e-pedagogy in four Directorates of Education (Basra, Qadissiya, Thiqar and Rasafa 3).

The program's main objective is, using interactive online teaching and learning methodologies, to enhance teachers e-skills, enabling them to implement newly acquired knowledge to support children during crises.

“This training, about to be finalized by 4,000 teachers, is a milestone in strengthening resilience of Iraq’s education system, by providing digital tools to teachers to deliver quality and inclusive education, even at the time when face-to-face learning might be challenged by natural or manmade hazards. Let World Teachers´ Day serve to reaffirm UNICEF’s commitment to support the Ministry of Education, jointly with UNESCO and funded by the European Union, in mainstreaming e-pedagogy as a strategic tool for every teacher in Iraq”, said Sheema SenGupta, UNICEF Representative in Iraq.

Recognizing the central role of Teachers in delivering quality teaching and learning, UNESCO declared 5^th October as World Teachers’ Day in 1994. This year’s theme is “Transformation of Education Begins with Teachers.” 

“In Iraq, UNESCO is supporting the Ministry of Education to strengthen teachers’ knowledge, skills and competencies in ICT based distance teaching and learning methodologies to ensure continuity of learning during any emergency such as COVID-19, which may disrupt access to face-to-face learning. UNESCO has mobilized the support of international partners, in particular, the European Union to activate online learning platforms, introduced the blended learning approaches and tools for teachers, and is supporting delivery of training to 4000 teachers in partnership with UNICEF”, said Paolo Fontani, Director and UNESCO Representative to Iraq.

The e-pedagogy training, added to the Education Management Information Systems put in place, and the Governorate level Education Sector Plans, supported by UNESCO and UNICEF, are key parts of the joint work with the Ministry of Education, supported by the European Union to strengthen systems and build the capacity of the educational system in Iraq.