Today, a significant Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) and the International Baccalaureate Organization (IB). This partnership aims to enhance access to high-quality education for students across the Global South and foster opportunities for educational research and growth.
Key Takeaways
- The MoU was signed by Princess Zahra Aga Khan and Olli-Pekka Heinonen, Director General of the IB.
- The agreement focuses on empowering school-aged children and developing future-ready skills.
- It reinforces a longstanding relationship between AKDN and IB, emphasizing shared values in education.
- The partnership will cover all educational levels, from early childhood to professional development for teachers.
Background of the Partnership
The collaboration between AKDN and IB is rooted in a shared commitment to promoting pluralism and access to quality education. The previous MoU, established in 2010, laid the groundwork for professional development opportunities for IB teachers, particularly through the Aga Khan Academy Mombasa. This academy has been instrumental in providing IB workshops since the initial agreement.
Goals of the MoU
The newly signed MoU aims to:
- Strengthen educational frameworks across various levels, including:
- Early childhood education
- Secondary education
- Graduate studies
- Professional development for educators
- Enhance collaboration among AKDN agencies, including:
- Aga Khan Schools (AKS)
- Aga Khan Trust for Culture
- Aga Khan University
- University of Central Asia
Statements from Leaders
In a statement prior to the signing, Olli-Pekka Heinonen expressed pride in supporting AKDN’s mission, stating, "The IB is proud to support the AKDN’s mission of fostering global citizenship and social responsibility through innovative educational practices."
Princess Zahra Aga Khan echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of education in driving societal progress: "This renewal of AKDN’s agreement with the IB reinforces our longstanding relationship and strengthens our work based on a shared belief in the ability of education to achieve societal movement."
Future Implications
The renewed partnership is expected to create richer educational opportunities and enhance the quality of education in the Global South. By focusing on inquiry-based approaches and continuous teacher development, both organizations aim to empower students and educators alike, preparing them to navigate and contribute positively to an ever-changing world.
This MoU marks a pivotal step in the ongoing efforts to improve educational access and quality, ensuring that students in the Global South are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary for future success.
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