In the Limelight: A Conversation with the

Eaquals Teacher Award Recipient

A teacher’s passion and dedication are unparalleled. They create engaging learning spaces, adapt lessons to each student, and spark inspiration. They build confidence, foster cultural understanding, and ignite a lifelong love for languages. That’s why Eaquals celebrates these exceptional individuals with an award, nurturing their professional growth and we’re delighted to announce that Mohsen Askari, is this year’s recipient of the Eaquals Teacher Award.

Here’s our interview with Mohsen, where we uncover the motivations behind his journey into education, the experiences that have shaped his career, and his exciting aspirations for the future.

How did you feel when you found out you were the recipient of this year’s Eaquals Teacher Award?

I was absolutely thrilled and honored to receive the Eaquals Teacher Award 2024. It felt like a validation of my years of dedication and passion in the field of English language teaching. This award is not just a personal achievement but a testament to the support and collaboration of my colleagues and students.

Could you tell us about your teaching career and how long you have been doing it for? What does it mean for you to work at an Eaquals accredited school?

I have been teaching English for over 15 years, currently working at Fatih Sultan Mehmet Foundation University as an Edtech Coordinator and English Instructor. Working at an Eaquals accredited school means striving for excellence in language education, which aligns perfectly with my professional ethos. It’s a privilege to be part of an institution that upholds high standards in teaching and learning.

What led you to a career in teaching? Can you pinpoint the moment you knew teaching was what you wanted to pursue?

My teaching journey was driven by a profound love for the English language and a desire to share this passion with others. The defining moment came during my early years at Alborz University in Iran, where I realized the joy and fulfilment of facilitating learning and seeing students excel.

Is there someone who inspires you?

Several influential individuals have shaped my journey in English education. My first English teacher, Mr. Ali Osad Hajian, ignited my initial interest in the language. His engaging teaching methods laid the foundation for my passion. In high school, another pivotal figure was Rasould Bashiri. His teachings deepened my understanding and cemented my desire to explore the English language further. Beyond English teachers, two other mentors have had a profound impact on me. Dr. Javad Sattari, my uncle and a literature enthusiast, instilled in me a love for reading from a young age. At the same time, the late Kiumars Moyedi, a respected figure in my hometown, awakened my curiosity and broadened my perspective on human studies and social sciences. His guidance transcended conventional education, encouraging me to see beyond the obvious and to invest deeply in learning and teaching.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years’ time?

Looking ahead, I envision myself continuing to evolve as an educator, perhaps taking on more leadership roles in educational technology and curriculum development. I also see myself contributing more significantly to research in language teaching and technology integration in education.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Mohsen Askari for being named this year’s recipient of the Eaquals Teacher Award. Mohsen’s dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to language education exemplify the qualities we admire in educators. His journey, motivations, and aspirations serve as an inspiration to us all.