The Yidan Prize Foundation was formally established in 2016 by Dr Charles Chen Yidan, a philanthropist, entrepreneur and lifelong learner.

Recognizing the transformative effect education had on his life, he founded the prize to fulfill his dream of helping others benefit too.

The idea of the prize came to him after stepping down as Chief Administration Officer of Tencent, which he co-founded in 1998.

The Yidan Prize is an inclusive education award that recognizes individuals, or up to three-member teams, who have contributed significantly to education research and development.

The prize aims to progress learning by building a global community committed to advancing ideas in education.