Dubai:Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation for Medical and Educational Sciences and the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) have declared the winners of the fifth Hamdan-ICESCO Prize for Voluntary Development of Educational Facilities in the Islamic World. The projects selected hail from Egypt, Guinea, and Pakistan, following a rigorous evaluation and judging process.
According to Wam, the winning projects include 'Pioneering Models for Welcoming and Modern Schools' by the Integration of the Disabled Foundation for Community Development in Egypt, 'International University of Guinea' by Dr. Mohammed Sekou Keita, and 'Grand Asian University Sialkot' by Dr. Muhammad Islam in Pakistan.
The fifth edition of the prize saw 16 entries from 11 countries, with seven advancing to the judging stage after nine entries were excluded for not meeting eligibility criteria. The jury commenced evaluations on June 22, 2026, with the process concluding on August 12, resulting in the selection of the three winning projects.
Dr. Khalifa Al Suwaidi, Executive Director of the Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation, highlighted the diversity of initiatives in the winning projects, emphasizing their response to genuine educational needs within their communities. He noted the importance of initiatives that combine a strong concept with practical impact, contributing to the development of educational facilities in the Islamic world.
The Hamdan-ICESCO Prize, awarded biennially, recognizes three individuals or institutions contributing to educational development in the Islamic world, with a total value of US$300,000 and each winner receiving US$100,000. The funds are to be invested in enhancing the winning projects or establishing new educational initiatives.
The Egyptian project, 'Pioneering Models for Welcoming and Modern Schools', has significantly supported inclusive education since 2013 by integrating 911 children with disabilities into public schools and enhancing facilities across Egyptian governorates. It also includes training for teachers and support for special education through assistive technologies.
The 'International University of Guinea', established by Dr. Mohammed Sekou Keita, aims to broaden access to higher education with a model combining in-person and online learning, aligned with societal and labor market needs. Licensed by Guinea's Ministry of Higher Education, it offers various academic programs.
In Pakistan, Grand Asian University Sialkot focuses on expanding higher education access, especially for girls and low-income families, integrating education with community development and sustainability.
Launched in 2017 under Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum's patronage, the Hamdan-ICESCO Prize aims to encourage voluntary initiatives that enhance educational facilities in the Islamic world, promoting educational quality and scientific research.