Atlas Corps celebrates its 15th anniversary! It is time to celebrate the achievements of our amazing network of over 1,100 leaders from 110 countries and share stories on the global impact of our Alumni, Fellows, and Scholars.
Today we speak with our Palestinian Scholar Haitham (Cohort 3) from our Virtual Leadership Institute. Haitham, an experienced IT professional with a passion for education, shares with us how he applied his technical expertise towards advancing the digital educational opportunities within his home region. As the Computer Engineer at Hebron Directorate of Education, Haitham manages both the virtual e-portal for the Hebron School District and the implementation of new technologies.
Thank you, Haitham, for inspiring us with your incredible work towards advancing eLearning opportunities. We appreciate learning about your impact and your personal and professional growth. We wish you the best with this impactful work!
Tell us about projects you have worked on?
I am in charge of administering and maintaining the e-School web portal, Palestine’s SIS. My work includes administering Office 365 in the Directorate’s Schools, providing technical support to more than 90,000 accounts, and reshaping the future of eLearning throughout Palestine. I also supervise and evaluate the introduction of new technologies, such as Digital Transformation in Schools.
Why is it important for you to work towards quality education?
I am constantly applying my skills and experience in technology to help students and teachers learn the essential 21st-century skills by effectively using the digital learning tools available to them. I believe that successful individuals, communities, societies and entire civilizations are underpinned by the quality of their educational system. While working as an IT Teacher for two years before joining Hebron’s School District, I saw firsthand how technology can greatly impact the quality of education, as well as the possibilities it can bring to students and educators.
How has Atlas Corps contributed to your professional and personal accomplishments?
Atlas Corps has changed my life in many ways. I learned a lot of new skills, and I am more confident and capable of doing great new things. The assignments were a great learning hub for self-learning and self-work, and the launch calls were great for meeting new Scholars and learning more about inspiring leaders and entrepreneurs from different sectors. I can say that the Atlas Corps experience will go down as one of the most impressive, incredible, and unforgettable experiences in my life!
What is your favorite Atlas Corps memory?
Being frequently chosen as a team leader, especially during breakout rooms and coaching groups.
What advice do you have for applicants and current Scholars?
Never underestimate your potential influence. Go ahead and apply for Atlas Corps; this experience will change your life, I promise!
What message would you like to send to individuals who support Atlas Corps?
Thank you so much for the generous work and support. I am sincerely honored to be a part of Atlas Corps and without you guys, it would not have been possible!
On November 20, Atlas Corps celebrates 15 years of engaging social change leaders. Join us to honor our legacy of service with more than 1,100 leaders from 110 countries at the Atlas Corps 15-Year Anniversary Gala. We will convene friends of Atlas Corps from all sectors and regions of the world to reflect on 15 years of engaging social changemakers and inspire towards our future. Join to connect with our community, meet Fellows, and celebrate Atlas Corps!
Photos from the personal archive of Haitham Badarin