Expo 2020 - Dubai ruler's former teacher honored

In celebration of Unesco’s World Teachers’ Day (October 5) this year, Expo 2020 Dubai has announced that the Innovation Gallery within Terra – The Sustainability Pavilion will be renamed to honour Muhammed Al Saket Al Falasi, the man who taught His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

Mohammed Al Saket Al Falasi, now 86, taught at Al Ahmadiya School, the first semi-formal school in Dubai. Several years ago, Sheikh Mohammed spoke of his appreciation for his former teacher, who he described as a virtuous person, and his deep respect for others involved in his education.

A commemorative plaque will be unveiled in the coming weeks, honouring the former educator and the important work of teachers around the world, during a small ceremony.

In keeping with the education theme, the Innovation Gallery will feature a children’s innovations exhibit. Terra itself will be transformed into a Science Museum, following the closing of Expo on March 31, 2022.

Education has been at the forefront of Expo, with the ‘Expo School Programme’ organising school visits, with easy access for children and teachers. On World Teachers’ Day, these visits were promoted on social media, with students holding boards with writing in English and Arabic, pledging thanks to their teachers.

Alya Al Ali, Vice President - Expo School Programme, said: “Expo 2020 Dubai is a beacon for connecting minds and creating the future, and the celebration of World Teachers’ Day is our way of thanking educators, past and present, from all corners of the globe, for the tremendous work they do in shaping our future.