Doha, Qatar – The Education Above All (EAA) Foundation actively participated in the 12th World Innovation Summit for Education (WISE 12), focusing on solutions to improve education access, empower young people, and build stronger communities. The organization showcased its work through four sessions centered on the theme of “Humanity.io: Human Values at the Heart of Education.” This participation highlights the ongoing global effort to address challenges in learning and development, particularly for vulnerable populations.
The WISE 12 summit, a key international gathering for education stakeholders, took place November 28-30, 2023, attracting experts, policymakers, and innovators from around the world. EAA used the platform to emphasize its commitment to providing quality education in conflict zones and to promoting inclusive learning environments. The Foundation’s presence underscored Qatar’s increasingly prominent role in international educational initiatives.
Expanding Access to Education in Crisis and Beyond
A primary focus of EAA’s sessions was addressing the educational needs of young people affected by war, conflict, and displacement. The Al Fakhoora and PEIC programmes, collaborating with the University of Oxford and Bard College, led a discussion on how education can serve as a tool for agency, identity preservation, and community rebuilding. This conversation centered on providing not just academic learning, but also psychosocial support to help students overcome trauma.
Youth Voices and Resilience
The session featured insights from Jonathan Becker of Bard College, Dr. Christos Kypraios of the University of Oxford, and Luisa Romero, a peacebuilder with experience in Colombia. Alaa Abhari, an Al Fakhoora student, moderated the discussion, bringing a direct student perspective to the conversation and amplifying youth-driven advocacy.
Additionally, EAA showcased its work on climate-resilient education through the Reach Out to All (ROTA) Programme. Projects in Uzbekistan, Zanzibar, and refugee camps in Kenya were presented as models for localized climate education. These initiatives aim to equip young people with the knowledge and skills necessary to confront environmental challenges. Partnerships with organizations like UNICEF and the Girl Child Network were instrumental in this work.
Innovation and Investment in Education
The EAA Foundation also explored the critical role of innovation in driving sustainable educational development. A session led by the Innovation Development Programme highlighted the importance of embracing failure as a learning opportunity, a key component often missing from scaling up successful educational pilots. Experts from the International Rescue Committee and other organizations discussed strategies for iterative design and evidence-driven refinement.
Meanwhile, a final session focused on transforming Qatar into a regional hub for social investment in global education and job creation. Representatives from Qatar’s Ministry of Finance, Citi Social Finance, and EAA discussed how impact-driven capital can unlock opportunities for vulnerable youth worldwide. This included exploration of sustainable economic-empowerment programs.
According to Mohammed Al Kubaisi, CEO of EAA, the sessions demonstrated the Foundation’s core mission: ensuring education protects, empowers, and provides pathways to opportunity. He emphasized the power of cross-sector partnerships and bold ideas to transform educational systems.
Visitors to WISE 12 were also able to interact with an immersive exhibit detailing EAA’s work, from access to education and youth empowerment to protection in conflict and pathways to economic opportunity. The booth featured real-life stories and interactive displays showcasing the impact of EAA programs.
Looking ahead, the EAA Foundation will continue to refine and scale its programs based on the insights gained at WISE 12. The success of these initiatives will depend on sustained funding, strong partnerships, and a continued commitment to centering human dignity in all aspects of education. Further developments regarding the implementation of the discussed investment strategies are expected in the first quarter of 2024.
