Doha: Director-General of Arab League Educational, Cultural and Scientific Organization (ALECSO), H E Dr. Mohamed Ould Amar said Qatar sets a model to be emulated in supporting and developing the education sector at all levels, appreciating the efforts of the Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MoEHE) in adopting pioneering educational initiatives that enabled it to lead the global ranking of quality and excellence in education.
He was addressing the 14th session of the ALECSO Conference for Arab Ministers of Education, held in Doha yesterday. Ould Amar highlighted the significant efforts made by Qatar in implementing Arab and regional initiatives that have contributed to achieving inclusive Arab education. Notably, Qatar has hosted several events focused on e-learning, artificial intelligence, and application awards for people with disabilities in collaboration with Mada Center.
He reviewed the key efforts undertaken to ensure the success and distinction of the conference, which represents a qualitative addition to enhancing joint Arab efforts in the fields of education and training. This contributes to achieving SDGs, national and international commitments, as well as fostering the exchange of expertise and joint cooperation.
Ould Amar explained that the theme of the conference serves to renew the commitment to achieving the fourth SDG, by fostering collective thinking on strategies to develop educational systems and formulate future plans that meet the needs of the modern era as well as keep pace with rapid global changes.
He emphasised that inclusive education and empowering teachers are essential for achieving a positive transformation in the Arab education system. This can be accomplished through the implementation of comprehensive and well-thought-out strategies that build an educational system that promotes equality and equal opportunities for all, while contributing to the preparation of generations capable of facing future challenges and actively participating in societal development.
Ould Amar pointed out that ALECSO seeks to enhance educational policies in Arab countries through the platform of high-level ministerial conferences, facilitating the exchange of experiences to coordinate efforts for advancing education. This is part of a strategic partnership with Arab joint action organizations, national government institutions, regional and international organizations, as well as civil society and NGOs involved in education sectors across the Arab world.
He highlighted that the major efforts being undertaken by ALECSO are in line with the directions of Arab governments and educational leadership, which have driven its major national projects. These aim to achieve both quantitative and qualitative progress in ensuring the “right to education” guaranteed by all constitutions, within a comprehensive, sustainable, and inclusive developmental framework.
This official Arab focus on education reform is reflected in decisions from Arab summits, which call for comprehensive reforms, a fundamental transformation in education policies, and the advancement of scientific research.
Ould Amar also noted that the role of ALECSO is to support education in Arab countries through various programs aimed at developing educational systems, improving the level of teachers, and providing technical expertise to be an influential tributary in developing educational curricula, training educational cadres, and applying innovative educational methods that meet the needs of students in the digital age.
In this context, and in implementation of the decisions of the relevant Arab councils, ALECSO, at the request of the Arab League General Secretariat, is working on developing a “Visionary Plan for the Development and Enhancement of Education in the Arab World 2026-2035.” This plan aims to serve as a key reference for Arab countries, ensuring a qualitative leap in education. It focuses on updating curricula to make them more flexible, aligned with contemporary times, responsive to student needs, and compatible with labor market demands.
He reaffirmed ALECSO’s commitment to strengthening the status of the Arabic language, considering it one of humanity’s greatest languages. Its roots stretch deep into history and carry a rich cultural heritage filled with knowledge and thought.
However, Ould Amar acknowledged that the Arabic language today faces new challenges, requiring a reevaluation of how to support its position amid the technological revolution and the digital transformation, which have become realities affecting all aspects of life, including the education sector.
