Education International has named two teacher union leaders from Iraq and the Philippines to be awarded human rights and education prizes for their outstanding commitment, engagement and courage in promoting education for all.
Ms Luisa Bautista-Yu, from the Philippines, and Ahmed Jassam SalihAl-shiblawi, from Iraq, have been selected by Education International (EI)’s Executive Board to receive the Albert Shanker Education Award and the Mary Hatwood Futrell Human and Trade Union Rights Award, respectively. These two international solidarity prizes are given out every four years during EI’s Congress, and have become one of its biggest highlights.
Ms. Bautista-Yu has had a successful career marked by her engagement for the development of education in the Philippines. She has been involved in the education sector for decades, starting as a primary teacher and attaining the position of regional coordinator of Eastern Vinyasas, which she currently holds. Her engagement and courage were decisive during the recovery mission after Typhoon Haiyan hit the Philippines in 2013, devastating infrastructures and leaving thousands of children out of school.
Mr. Ahmed Jassam Salih Al-Shiblawi, National President of the technical sector of the Iraqi Teachers Union (ITU), has shown immense courage and determination in the promotion of human and trade union rights in his country. Despite constant threats and attacks on himself, his family and co-workers, he continues to lead the union with skill, expertise and bravery.
The awards will be presented at EI's 7th World Congress this July in Ottawa, Canada.