Ex-refugee wins $1m global teacher prize
Photo: AP
A Palestinian teacher has won a $1m global teaching prize – with the award announced in a video message by Pope Francis, the BBC reports.
Hanan Al Hroub grew up in a Palestinian refugee camp and now is a teacher of refugees herself.
She specialises in supporting children who have been traumatised by violence.
The winner was announced at an awards ceremony in Dubai, with a video message of congratulation sent by Prince William.
Pope Francis sent a message saying that teachers were “the builders of peace and unity”.
Ms Al Hroub told the audience that “teachers could change the world”.
Growing up in a refugee camp near Bethlehem, Ms Al Hroub now works with refugee pupils, with an approach using play that is aimed at resolving violence and tension.
“I am proud to be a Palestinian female teacher standing on this stage,” she said after receiving the award.
She says she will spend the prize money on supporting her students.