GWINNETT—Gwinnett Technical College recently named Mohamed Belal, Humanities Program Director, its Rick Perkins Instructor of the Year recipient for 2025. Belal, who became a teacher to make a meaningful impact on the lives of others, expressed his passion for education and student success.
“I love the moment when a concept ‘clicks’ for a student, their confidence grows, and they realize what they’re capable of achieving. My inspiration comes from seeing my students succeed, whether earning certifications, starting careers, or simply gaining the confidence to tackle challenges. Watching them transform their lives through education and achieve their career dreams is deeply rewarding,” said Belal.
Belal emphasized the honor and responsibility of representing Gwinnett Tech, highlighting the institution and the Technical College System of Georgia’s commitment to excellence in technical education. “Earning this recognition confirms my dedication to our students and the community. It also reminds me of the collective effort of my colleagues who strive to make a difference every day,” he stated. “I hope my students leave with more than technical skills; I want them to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, resilience, and a continuous learning mindset. I strive to teach them how to adapt, problem-solve, and excel professionally and personally. Additionally, I incorporate various soft skills into my lesson plans, which are essential for every career.”
Belal holds a Master of Arts in Music Education from Helwan University in Cairo, Egypt, and resides in Lawrenceville, Georgia.
The Rick Perkins Award for Excellence in Technical Instruction has been prestigious in the Technical College System of Georgia since 1991. The award is designed to honor technical college instructors who make significant contributions to technical education through innovation and leadership in their fields. It highlights the dedication and impact of educators who inspire and support their students in achieving academic and professional success.
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About Gwinnett Tech: Gwinnett Technical College, one of Georgia’s largest technical colleges, is committed to delivering relevant knowledge to meet the workforce training needs of its community. The college offers over 140 associate degrees, diplomas, certificate programs, and hundreds of seminars, workshops, and courses providing specialized training. Gwinnett Tech is Gwinnett County’s largest corporate training provider and serves residents and businesses in north Fulton County. Gwinnett Technical College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award the associate degree. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097, or call for questions about the accreditation of Gwinnett Technical College. In addition, some college programs hold separate licensure or accreditation status with appropriate agencies. For more information, visit GwinnettTech.edu. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia.