The Government of Bermuda proudly congratulates Rajeev Goonewardene, the Department of Education's Acting Education Officer for Science, on being recognised as a top performer in the United Arab Emirates Digital Educator Global Academy, where more than 11,000 educators participated globally.

Dr Goonewardene's achievement was honoured during a Suhoor gathering — a cherished tradition of the holy month of Ramadan, hosted by Abdulla Nasser Lootah, UAE Deputy Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Knowledge Sharing.

The event brought together representatives of 32 countries participating in the UAE's Government Experience Exchange Programme in the spirit of collaboration and unity. Bermuda’s special representative for the Middle East, Alexia Hefti, accepted the award on Dr Goonewardene’s behalf.

The Digital Educator Global Academy is a fully funded UAE initiative designed to equip more than 11,000 educators from around the world with cutting-edge skills in areas such as e-learning and artificial intelligence.

Participants engaged in interactive training to enhance digital learning environments and drive innovation in their home countries' education systems.

Dr Goonewardene said: “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.

“This has been an enriching experience, allowing me to expand my expertise. It is a privilege to contribute to Bermuda’s reputation as a leader in digital education, demonstrating that despite our small size, we continue to make a significant impact on the global stage.”

Bermuda's participation in the Digital Educator Global Academy is part of a broader engagement in the UAE's Government Experience Exchange Programme, following the Partnership Agreement signed on July 10, 2024, between Jason Hayward, the economy and labour minister, and Mr Lootah.

This partnership continues to offer Bermuda valuable opportunities for knowledge-sharing in governance, education and innovation.

Mr Hayward said: “I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Dr Goonewardene on this outstanding achievement.

“To be recognised by the UAE during Ramadan — an occasion dedicated to reflection and community — makes this honour all the more meaningful. His award is a testament to Bermuda's ability to shine on the world stage. It highlights the dedication of Bermudian educators to embracing digital transformation and educating a future-ready Bermuda.”

Crystal Caesar, the education minister, said: “We are pleased to celebrate the remarkable achievement of Dr Rajeev Goonewardene, who excelled among the 11,000 worldwide to take the top honour in the UAE’s Digital Educator Global Academy.

“Dr Goonewardene has set a new standard of excellence. His achievement inspires us and significantly contributes to the future of learning in Bermuda and the global education community.

“We are delighted that over 70 Bermuda public school system educators also enrolled in the UAE's Digital Educator Global Academy. The course was self-paced and had to be completed by January 31.

“On behalf of the Ministry of Education, we extend our congratulations and look forward to the integration of this professional development opportunity.”

• Press release from the Government of Bermuda