Congratulations to Dr. Kwesi Yaro, recipient of the 2024 Faculty of Education Undergraduate Teaching Award!

The Faculty of Education Teaching Award Committee is thrilled to announce that Dr. Kwesi Yaro has been awarded the 2024 Faculty of Education Undergraduate Teaching Award.

Dr. Yaro demonstrates exceptional commitment to teaching excellence, deeply rooted in his identity as a Black African immigrant educator from Ghana. His approach effectively integrates the University of Alberta’s Indigenous strategic plan Braiding Past, Present and Future and institutional commitments to equity, diversity, and inclusivity. Dr. Yaro’s teaching is characterized by a "pedagogy of care and strong relationship building," inspired by African Indigenous worldviews like "Ubuntu," ensuring all students feel a sense of belonging. His innovative use of inquiry strategies tailored to student needs fosters critical thinking and cultural understanding, exemplified by his incorporation of Indigenous ways of knowing into mathematics education, such as inviting guest speakers to discuss First Nations, Métis and Inuit traditional games.

Dr. Yaro's impact extends beyond the classroom. He initiated and sustained outreach events like the Fall and Winter Math Fairs, bringing together teachers, K-12 students and pre-service teachers to explore mathematics interactively. His leadership in the CMASTE Math Academy outreach programs and his work with the Edmonton’s Centre for Newcomers providing math tutoring for African immigrant youths highlight his dedication to community engagement and social justice. His efforts to integrate cultural perspectives and foster inclusive learning environments, as evidenced by student testimonials and peer observations, align with the award's criteria and reflect his transformative approach to teaching.

In her letter of support, Dr. Lynn McGarvey noted that Dr. Yaro “is deeply committed to fostering critical thinking, collaboration and cultural awareness in mathematics education. His ability to engage students in meaningful, thought-provoking learning experiences exemplifies the highest standards of teaching excellence."

Dr. Yaro’s students describe him as “incredibly warm and kind” and note that his “passion for teaching was evident in every aspect of the course.” He “used mathematics to make sense of the world,” illustrated “deep connections between mathematics, culture and real life,” and was “truly inspiring.” As one student explains, “beyond the classroom, he has remained a steadfast mentor and supporter, regularly checking in on us during our early teaching years and offering insightful advice for navigating classroom challenges.”

The Faculty of Education takes great pride in celebrating such accomplishments, as they reflect our deep commitment to excellence in teaching.

Mark your Calendars!

The next opportunity to apply for the Faculty of Education Teaching Awards will be in Fall 2025. Application packages are due by September 8, 2025. For more information about the awards and the application process, please visit the Faculty of Education Administrative Site and refer to the Teaching Awards section.