Bermuda's Dr. Rajeev Goonewardene Honored as Top Performer in UAE’s Digital Educator Global Academy
The Government of Bermuda has extended its warmest congratulations to Dr. Rajeev Goonewardene, the Acting Education Officer for Science in the Department of Education, on his remarkable recognition as a “Top Performer” in the UAE’s esteemed Digital Educator Global Academy. This accolade comes amid a backdrop of more than 11,000 educators from around the world vying for recognition in this initiative, underscoring the competitive nature of the program.
In a formal statement, a Government spokesperson expressed pride in Dr. Goonewardene’s achievement, highlighting that this honor was conferred during a Suhoor gathering—a quintessential aspect of Ramadan tradition—hosted by His Excellency Abdulla Nasser Lootah, the UAE’s Deputy Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Knowledge Sharing. This event was not just a celebration of individual achievement, but also a gathering of representatives from 32 different countries united under the UAE’s Government Experience Exchange Programme (GEEP), emblematic of collaboration and shared educational aspirations.
Bermuda’s Special Representative for the Middle East, Ms. Alexia Hefti, accepted the award on behalf of Dr. Goonewardene, who was unable to attend in person. The digital education landscape has become increasingly important in the quest for innovation and enhanced student learning experiences. The Digital Educator Global Academy, a fully funded initiative by the UAE, aims to enrich the skill sets of educators worldwide, covering advanced subjects such as e-learning methodologies and the integration of artificial intelligence in educational settings. By participating in interactive training modules, educators are empowered to drive change within their respective educational systems.
Minister of Economy and Labour Jason Hayward remarked on the significance of Dr. Goonewardene’s accomplishment. “I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Goonewardene on this outstanding achievement,” he stated, positioning this recognition within the broader context of Ramadan—a month traditionally dedicated to reflection and community. “His award is a testament to Bermuda’s ability to shine on the world stage, highlighting the dedication of Bermudian educators to embracing digital transformation and educating a future-ready Bermuda.”
Senator Crystal Caesar, the Minister of Education, also shared in the celebration of this achievement. “We are pleased to celebrate the remarkable achievement of Dr. Rajeev Goonewardene, who excelled among the 11,000 participants worldwide to take the top honour in the UAE’s Digital Educator Global Academy,” she stated. Her sentiments were echoed by the Minister’s aspirations for educational advancement in Bermuda and beyond, noting that Dr. Goonewardene’s success sets a new standard of excellence that will inspire both local educators and the global education community.
Adding to the positive momentum, it was noted that over 70 educators from the Bermuda Public School system are currently enrolled in the UAE’s Digital Educator Global Academy. This self-paced course is designed to culminate by January 31, 2025, furthering the professional development of Bermuda’s educators and aligning them with global educational trends.
In reflecting on his accolade, Dr. Rajeev Goonewardene expressed, “I am truly honoured and humbled to have represented not only Bermuda but also my dedicated Curriculum and Assessment team at the Department of Education in the Digital Educators Global Academy training programme.” He articulated a strong commitment to his role, emphasizing the importance of expanding expertise in digital education to reinforce Bermuda’s standing as a leader in this evolving field.
The Government’s spokesperson also noted that Bermuda’s participation in the Digital Educator Global Academy is part of a broader engagement strategy within the UAE’s Government Experience Exchange Programme. This collaboration stems from a Partnership Agreement signed on July 10, 2024, between Minister Hayward and H.E. Abdulla Lootah, paving the way for valuable opportunities in knowledge-sharing across governance, education, and innovation.
As Bermuda continues to engage in global educational initiatives, the achievements of individuals like Dr. Goonewardene serve as inspiration for educators at all levels, reinforcing a commitment to advancing digital competencies within the teaching profession and fostering a future-ready educational landscape.
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