India: Moroccan teacher gets award for transforming learning into attractive activity through theater

Moroccan teacher Messaoud Ariba was rewarded at the 2024 edition of the Global Teacher Awards, an annual event celebrating excellence in education on an international scale in New Delhi, India.

The Global Teacher Awards aim to celebrate educators who excel in teaching across all disciplines and make a significant impact on their students and communities, even beyond the classroom, according to the event organizer, AKS Education, an India-based education research company.

These awards highlight exceptional teachers from diverse regions and communities worldwide, recognizing their critical role in building a more inclusive society and inspiring future generations.

Messaoud Ariba, a teacher at a school in Taroudant, was the sole representative of the Arab world and North Africa among this year’s laureates.

He stood out among thousands of candidates from across the globe at this event for his endeavors to engage pupils with subjects they usually perceive as “monsters” through theater.

Since 1998, Ariba has focused on improving learning, particularly in mathematics, through an engaging approach that simplifies complex concepts for children, with his project Math Kids, recognized at the event, transforming primary-level math instruction into theatrical performances that make learning fun and interactive.

“We know that many children often perceive mathematics as an intimidating or even frightening subject…With Math Kids, math becomes a game instead of a ‘monster,’ as theatrical activities present mathematical concepts in an accessible and enjoyable way,” he explained in a statement to MAP.

Beyond mathematics, Ariba has adapted the primary school subject “Scientific Activities” into three theatrical plays, each lasting 45 minutes and tailored for two grade levels.

He emphasized that school theater is more than mere entertainment, calling it a powerful educational tool that enhances learning and fosters students’ skills.

Ariba expressed his pride for the recognition, calling it the culmination of 25 years of dedication to education. “This award is a well-deserved tribute to the remarkable efforts of the men and women contributing to the development of the education sector in Morocco.”