2 Malaysian Teachers Shortlisted For Varkey Foundation Global Teacher Prize 2020
Two Malaysian teachers were among the final 50 educators shortlisted for the Varkey Foundation Global Teacher Prize 2020.
Samuel Isaiah, 33, was from Sekolah Kebangsaan Runchang in Pahang. Earlier last year, he went viral for the unique and engaging way he taught Orang Asli children English, through songs and dance.
Affectionately known as Teacher Sam, he had to say goodbye to his students when he decided to pursue further studies in the State University of New York for two years to pursue a Master’s degree in Educational Policy and Leadership. He is also one of five Malaysians to receive a Fulbright scholarship.
Norhailmi Abdul Mutalib, 39, is from SMK Jerlun in Kedah. He is a high school science teacher and an active blogger who writes on educational issues. He was also an Excellent Teacher Award recipient.
He uses collaboration techniques to make sure students learn well. The percentages of students who scored A in Science at his school increased from 3.9% in 2015 to 29.85% in 2017.
Over the last few weeks, in a world turned upside down, we’ve been daily reminded how much we rely on the world’s teachers. Now, more than ever, we must shine a light on their profession.
Global Teacher Prize Finalist Announcement
The Global Teacher Prize is a $1 million award given to an exceptional teacher who has made an outstanding contribution to the professin.
Candidates are teachers who have achieved exceptional results in student learning and won the respect of the community through activities beyond the classroom. They will have been role models to other teachers in their community work and opened up access to quality education for children of all backgrounds and prepared young people to be ‘global citizens’.
All over the world, education has had to shift dramatically due to restricted movement orders from various countries. Institutions and classrooms have had to move online in a matter of days without jeopardizing students’ education.
If you have a teacher who you think deserves the prize for next year, visit their website here for more information.
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Anne is an advocate of sustainable living and the circular economy, and has managed to mum-nag the team into using reusable containers to tapau food. She is also a proud parent of 4 cats and 1 rabbit.