WISE Launches its First Publication at Doha Summit

DOHA, Qatar, November 3, 2011 -

Insights of an Innovation Expert Illustrated by Creative Photography

“Innovation in Education: Lessons from Pioneers around the World”

The first publication commissioned by the World Innovation Summit for Education (WISE) has been launched at this leading international initiative’s third annual Summit in Doha, Qatar.

Innovation in Education: Lessons from Pioneers around the World is an international reference guide to best practices in education. The book looks at how innovation in education happens, the people behind the projects, and at when and how initiatives can be expanded and replicated.

The book is the fruit of collaboration between innovation specialist Charles Leadbeater, co-author of a 2010 publication on the future of schools called Learning from the Extremes, and renowned photographer Romain Staros Staropoli. It is published by Bloomsbury Qatar Foundation Publishing.

Over a period of six months, the author and photographer visited projects in Brazil, Canada, Colombia, India, Jordan, Morocco, the Netherlands, Palestine, Paraguay, Qatar, South Africa, Turkey, Uganda, and the USA. They explored initiatives in remote rural areas and at the heart of prestigious campuses. They encountered traditional education infrastructures in need of renewal and emerging systems which lack funding but are energized by engaged local populations.  

Sixteen projects are featured in the publication, most of them winners and finalists of WISE Awards over the past three years. The book highlights innovations which increase access to education for groups outside the mainstream, and it considers the competencies that should be taught for the future, such as intercultural understanding, creative thinking and team working.

An Inspiring Study

Innovation in Education: Lessons from Pioneers around the World challenges traditional views of education. The publication brings innovative, real-life models to a wider audience through a unique blend of field research and creative photography.

“Since its inception in 2009, WISE has talked about education in a new way and has acted upon its fresh thinking. This publication is aligned with our innovative approach. It aims to increase awareness of the importance of education among leaders and the general public, raising the subject to the top of the international agenda alongside other matters of major concern such as economics and sustainable development.” H.E. Abdulla bin Ali Al-Thani Ph.D., Chairman of WISE, Qatar Foundation.

USA, Janelle Moritz, +1-212-453-2238, janelle.moritz at fleishman.com; UK, Tania Chuppe, +44(0)20-7395-7078, tania.chuppe at fleishmaneurope.com; India, Sanghamitra Bhargov, 022-43546694, Sanghamitra.Bhargov at fleishman.com; South Africa, Nomathemba Thobani Malinga, +27-11-548-2004,
nomathemba.malinga at fleishman.co.za