Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Ras Al Khaimah celebrated its 19th Annual Awards for Educational Excellence, honouring outstanding achievements across schools, universities, educators, and students. The event highlighted the Emirate’s unwavering commitment to innovation, inclusion, and the transformative power of education.
Under the esteemed patronage and in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, the Emirate celebrated a remarkable chapter in its educational journey with the 19th Annual RAK Awards for Educational Excellence. Held at the Ras Al Khaimah Cultural Centre, the prestigious ceremony brought together educators, students, parents, and policymakers in a collective celebration of academic achievement, innovation, and community impact.
In his address, His Highness Sheikh Saud underscored the transformative role of education in shaping the future of the nation and the character of its people. He stated, “Education shapes the strength and character of our nation. It opens doors for individuals, connects communities, and drives long-term progress. On this day, we recognise those who are dedicated to shaping minds, guiding future leaders, and contributing to the continued growth of our Emirate. Their work reflects the values we hold dear in Ras Al Khaimah – ambition, compassion, and service to others. By supporting our educators, students, and institutions, we are investing in a future defined by resilience, knowledge, and opportunity.”
The awards ceremony served as a powerful reminder of the Emirate’s commitment to educational advancement and inclusive excellence. A total of 71 individuals and institutions were honoured across 38 award categories, highlighting outstanding efforts from early childhood centres, K–12 schools, universities, and parent communities.
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This year’s award winners reflected a broad and inclusive understanding of educational excellence, recognising achievements not just in academics but also in student wellbeing, inclusive practices, sustainability, innovation, and community engagement. The awards honoured educators and institutions that are not only excelling within the classroom but also inspiring systemic progress and meaningful change.
From pioneering AI and STEAM programmes to inclusive education initiatives and green campus transformations, the 2025 recipients represented a new wave of educational leadership in Ras Al Khaimah—committed to creating safe, dynamic, and inspiring spaces for learners to thrive.
Dr. Natasha Ridge, Executive Director of the Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi Foundation for Policy Research, praised the depth of dedication and creativity shown by this year’s winners. “These awards represent the best of what education can achieve when vision is matched with dedication. The recipients have shown us what’s possible when wellbeing, innovation, and inclusion are placed at the heart of teaching and learning. Their work reminds us that excellence is not a destination, but a continuous pursuit – one that requires courage, creativity, and compassion in equal measure. We are proud to honour their achievements, which are advancing not only individual lives but the future of education in Ras Al Khaimah.”
Among the institutions recognised was RAK Academy – Al Hamra, which received the RAK Excellence Award for Outstanding School in Ras Al Khaimah. The school was commended for its holistic educational approach, student-centred innovation, and strong community engagement.
Karolina Jankowska, Head of School at RAK Academy – Al Hamra, expressed pride in the award, stating: “We are truly honoured to receive the RAK Excellence Award for Outstanding School in Ras Al Khaimah. This prestigious recognition is a testament to the unwavering dedication, passion, and collaborative spirit of our entire RAK Academy – Al Hamra community, including our exceptional students, supportive parents, and committed staff. It reaffirms our commitment to nurturing excellence in education, fostering innovation, and building an environment where every learner thrives.”
Other award categories recognised excellence in leadership, sustainability initiatives, educational research, parental involvement, and emerging educators, reinforcing Ras Al Khaimah’s inclusive approach to supporting all facets of educational development.
Now in its 19th year, the RAK Awards for Educational Excellence have become a cornerstone of the Emirate’s long-term educational strategy. The awards programme is designed not only to celebrate achievements but also to inspire innovation, share best practices, and encourage a culture of continuous improvement among educators and institutions.
The initiative aligns closely with the UAE’s national vision for a knowledge-based, innovation-led future, positioning Ras Al Khaimah as a leader in educational reform and advancement. By highlighting successful initiatives and fostering local talent, the awards help to build a resilient, high-quality education system that meets the diverse needs of students in a rapidly evolving global landscape.
More than just a ceremony, the 19th Annual RAK Awards served as a platform to reaffirm the shared mission of all educational stakeholders across the Emirate. It brought together leaders who are shaping the next generation, not only through academic excellence but also through values-driven leadership, environmental consciousness, and social responsibility.
Awardees left the stage not merely as recipients of honour, but as ambassadors for progress—committed to a future where education continues to be a catalyst for opportunity, equity, and sustainable development in Ras Al Khaimah and beyond.
As Ras Al Khaimah looks toward the future, its investment in education remains central to its identity and aspirations. With visionary leadership, committed educators, and engaged communities, the Emirate continues to pave the way for a brighter, knowledge-powered tomorrow.
Source : Gulf News
Image courtesy : SRDA
