Tribune News Network
Doha
Doha Academy celebrated World Teachers’ Day on Thursday, October 3, recognising the invaluable contributions of its educators across the Primary, Secondary Boys, and Secondary Girls sections.
The celebratory event, held at the Doha Academy Auditorium highlighted ‘Valuing Teachers’ Voices’, the theme of this year’s World Teachers’ Day.
Doha Academy delivered three celebratory sessions for teachers and students, each involving Yalla Toys’ giant parrot mascot ‘Yoko’ to the delight of everyone.
The celebration was a heartfelt occasion that brought together students and teachers in three sessions, each filled with gratitude, inspiration, and meaningful engagement. In the morning, the Primary session kicked off the event, with students delivering speeches and reflecting on the importance of teachers in their lives. A warm message from Principal Edward Cooper celebrated the dedication of teachers, followed by an awards ceremony that recognized four outstanding educators from the Primary section. The teachers were: Iman Ossman, Rouba Farhat, Tasnim Mohamed, and Menakshi Bakshi.
The momentum continued with the Secondary Boys session, which featured a spirited speech from student representative Ali Al Madadi who spoke about his teachers being ‘his family’. The session also included a thoughtful discussion where teachers shared their experiences as students, offering a nostalgic and often humorous glimpse into their own educational journeys. Four teachers from the Secondary Boys section were recognized for their exemplary contributions. They were: Rana Abou Ghneim, Bafana Provece, Celeste Marx, and John Zacharias.
In the final session, the Secondary Girls gathered for a lively celebration that included a speech from student representative Najla Abu-Ahmad. The awards presentation in this session honoured Joan Petagara, Celeste Smith, Maymouna Abo Nouh, and Damian Lance Moonsamy for their dedication to their students and to the school community. As with the previous sessions, Principal Edward Cooper delivered a message emphasizing the critical role teachers play in shaping the future, stating.
He said: “Our teachers’ voices are at the heart of education, and today, we celebrate their tireless dedication and the profound impact they have on our students and the community. I hope that you feel valued and that you know you have a voice in the growth and development of our school.”
All of the teachers were voted for by a nomination survey sent to students, parents and all Doha Academy staff.
The event concluded with a joyful chant of ‘Happy Teachers’ Day’ as students and teachers interacted with the Yoko the Yalla Toys mascot, marking the end of a truly inspiring and celebratory day.
World Teachers’ Day 2024, themed ‘Valuing Teachers’ Voices’, aligns with UNESCO’s global efforts to recognize educators’ crucial role in shaping education policies.
“Doha Academy is proud to be a part of this celebration, highlighting the dedication of its teachers who continue to inspire, educate, and lead,” the school said in a statement issued after the event.
