Massoud Ariba received the award Wednesday in Mbabane, the capital of Eswatini, at the close of the African Conference on Teacher Education. Organizers described the conference as a continental platform for recognizing outstanding teachers and celebrating their contributions to advancing education in Africa.
Ariba teaches at Ibn Achir School Group under the Taroudant Provincial Directorate of the Ministry of National Education. He was honored for his “Math Kids” project, an initiative that turns primary-school mathematics lessons into theatrical performances, using play to facilitate learning.
His project stood out among hundreds of entries assessed according to 17 criteria, thanks to its entertaining and interactive approach to teaching mathematics to students aged 11 to 13.
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“Mathematics becomes a game rather than a hardship,” Ariba told Maghreb Arab Press (MAP). “Through theatrical activities, mathematical concepts are presented in a simple and enjoyable way.”
After 28 years in education, Ariba said he was proud and happy to receive the award, describing it as recognition of the efforts of education workers in Morocco, particularly those working in remote rural areas.
Alongside mathematics, Ariba has also adapted the primary-school “scientific activities” subject into three plays. Each performance lasts 45 minutes and targets students at two different grade levels.
The Moroccan teacher believes school theater goes beyond entertainment, serving as an effective educational tool that can encourage learning and strengthen students’ skills.
Ariba previously received an award at the 2024 edition of the Global Teacher Awards in New Delhi, India, an annual event recognizing excellence in education internationally.
