Doha, Qatar – The 39th International Congress for School Effectiveness and Improvement (ICSEI) commenced on Monday at Qatar University, bringing together over 500 global education experts. Organized by the Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MOEHE), the conference focuses on school effectiveness and aims to foster innovative, inclusive, and sustainable learning environments. The event runs through January 22nd and marks a significant step in Qatar’s commitment to educational advancement.
The ICSEI 2026 gathering includes participants from numerous countries, representing a diverse range of perspectives on education policy and practice. Attendees include researchers, policymakers, and school leaders dedicated to improving educational outcomes worldwide. The conference is hosted in the Gulf region for the first time, signaling a growing emphasis on regional contributions to global educational discourse.
Qatar Prioritizes Education and School Effectiveness
Qatar’s hosting of the ICSEI underscores the nation’s dedication to human capital development, a cornerstone of its National Vision 2030. According to remarks by HE Dr. Ibrahim bin Saleh Al Nuaimi, Undersecretary of the MOEHE, Qatar doesn’t seek to simply replicate international models but to adapt best practices to its unique cultural context and national priorities. This approach emphasizes the importance of tailoring educational strategies to local needs.
The Ministry of Education and Higher Education has consistently invested in enhancing the quality of its education system. This investment focuses on empowering students, supporting teachers, and fostering leadership within schools. The goal is to create learning environments that encourage critical thinking and innovation, preparing students for a rapidly evolving world.
A Platform for Global Exchange
The ICSEI conference serves as a crucial platform for exchanging experiences and discussing contemporary challenges in education. This year’s event notably accepts and features scientific research presented in Arabic, broadening the scope of knowledge sharing. Dr. Asmaa Al Fadala, head of the local preparatory committee, highlighted that this inclusion reflects the region’s active role in shaping global educational discussions.
The conference program includes scientific sessions, specialized workshops, and visits to local schools, offering a comprehensive overview of Qatar’s educational landscape. Partnerships with Qatar University, the College of Public Policy at Hamad bin Khalifa University, and the Arab Educational Training Center for Gulf States further enrich the event’s offerings and collaborative potential.
Focus on Innovation and Inclusion in Education
The theme of “Crossing Boundaries in Education: Fostering Innovative, Inclusive and Sustainable Learning Environments” reflects a growing global awareness of the need for adaptable and equitable educational systems. Discussions are expected to center on strategies for addressing learning gaps, promoting diversity, and integrating technology effectively into classrooms. The concept of sustainable learning is also a key focus, emphasizing the long-term impact of educational practices.
Additionally, the conference is expected to address the challenges posed by global events and rapid technological advancements. Adapting curricula to meet the demands of the future workforce and ensuring access to quality education for all students are critical considerations. The MOEHE stated its commitment to leveraging research and innovation to build a knowledge-based economy.
The inclusion of Arabic-language research represents a significant step towards greater inclusivity in the international education community. This move acknowledges the valuable contributions of scholars and educators from the Arab world and promotes a more diverse and representative body of knowledge. The conference also aims to facilitate the development of research teams and collaborative initiatives that can drive educational progress globally.
Looking ahead, the outcomes of ICSEI 2026 will likely inform future education policies and initiatives in Qatar and beyond. The MOEHE will likely analyze the conference findings to identify areas for improvement and to refine its strategies for achieving the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030. Further details on specific action plans and implementation timelines are expected in the coming months, and the long-term impact on educational reform remains to be seen.
Source: The Peninsula Qatar
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Ministry of Education and Higher Education (Qatar)
