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MANILA — President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. has appointed several officials, including Mohagber Iqbal, the Bangsamoro Education Minister, to represent the Philippines on various committees of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) National Commission, according to a Facebook post by the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) on October 5, 2024.
Minister Iqbal joins Education Secretary Sonny Angara, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Director General Jose Francisco Benitez, and Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Chairman J. Prospero de Vera III in this role.
As the Minister of the Ministry of Basic, Higher, and Technical Education (MBHTE) for the Bangsamoro Government, Iqbal is familiar with the educational challenges in the autonomous region. He has been instrumental in developing policies that address the diverse needs of BARMM communities, focusing on inclusivity and cultural relevance. BARMM is the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, created through the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL).
Established in 1951 through Republic Act 621 and amended by Republic Acts 892 and 3849, the UNESCO National Commission of the Philippines is connected to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA). It aims to uphold the Philippines’ commitments to UNESCO, promoting global collaboration in education, science, culture, communication, and information.
Several contributions to UNESCO were made by the Philippines, including participation in programs aimed at preserving and promoting indigenous languages and cultures, aligning with UNESCO’s mission to foster cultural diversity.
Minister Iqbal’s appointment to UNESCO Education Committee highlights importance of government representation in international bodies
The country has also engaged in various educational initiatives, such as the Education for Sustainable Development program, which promotes quality education and lifelong learning opportunities.
Minister Iqbal, who wears many hats in the Mindanao peace process, represents the Government Organization.
His extensive experience and dedication to public service will surely make a significant impact in this new role.
The leadership of the Bangsamoro government as well as officials and personnel of the MBHTE have warmly welcomed his appointment and congratulated him for joining the UNESCO Education Committee in the Philippines.
“We are confident that your leadership will contribute greatly to advancing education and fostering international cooperation,” the MBHTE personnel says.
His new role reflects his long-standing dedication to enhancing educational systems and fostering collaboration at both national and international levels.
With a career marked by numerous achievements in promoting education, especially within the Bangsamoro region, Minister Iqbal’s contributions are expected to bring invaluable insights to the committee. His work has been pivotal in driving educational reform and promoting peace through learning, ensuring that underserved communities receive greater access to quality education.
His leadership in this new capacity will be instrumental in shaping policies that align with global standards while addressing local challenges.
Minister Iqbal’s appointment also highlights the importance of government representation in international educational initiatives. His expertise will undoubtedly help strengthen the ties between the Philippines and global education bodies, fostering meaningful progress and cooperation. His leadership in this role is anticipated to have a lasting impact on the country’s educational development, contributing to the broader goals of advancing education and promoting international collaboration. (/)