This episode is the second of the Unmute Education limited series dedicated to raising the volume on the education conversation in the leadup to the WISE 2021 Global Summit taking place in Doha, Qatar and online on 7-9 December 2021.

Featured in this podcast is Amel Karboul, the founding CEO of the Education Outcomes Fund, a ground-breaking international effort to change the way that education is funded particularly in developing country contexts. The effort is championed by amongst others Gordon Brown, the former prime minister of the United Kingdom, and Sir Ronald Cohen co-founder of Apax Partners, one of Europe’s most successful Venture Capital Firms. 

Prior to taking on her role with the Education Outcomes Fund Amel held leadership positions at Mercedes-Benz, DaimlerChrysler; and the Boston Consulting Group (BCG). She also served in her native Tunisia as Minister of Tourism from 2014 to 2015 during the country’s transition to democracy. 

She was the first woman to occupy that position and the youngest member of the Mehdi Jooma administration. Amel was also a member of the Education Commission chaired by Gordon Brown. She is the author of Coffin Corner, a book outlining a new leadership culture suited to the complexity and dynamics of the 21st century. 

Tune in to this second episode of the Unmute Education limited series to hear Amel Karboul’s discussion alongside host and CEO of WISE, Stavros Yiannouka tackle the climate crisis, outcome-based funding, and many more topics.
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REGISTER FOR THE WISE 2021 GLOBAL SUMMIT: wise-qatar.org/wise-2021/

Relevant links:

UNESCO Report cited in the intro: https://www.wise-qatar.org/app/uploads/2021/11/web-page.pdf

Education Outcomes Fund: https://www.educationoutcomesfund.org

Amel Karboul's website: https://karboul.com
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Website: wise-qatar.org
Twitter: twitter.com/WISE_Tweets
Instagram: @wiseqatar
Facebook: facebook.com/wiseqatar/
Linkedin: bit.ly/2JKThYf

WISE Words Podcast

74: The Climate Crisis - Educating for Outcomes - Amel Karboul

Last time on WISE On Air we were joined by three 2022 WISE Awards Winning Project holders, Janhvi Kanoria, Susan Mtana, and Tyler Samstag. We brought these innovators on the show because we’re looking to decipher what does it take to unlock the potential of great ideas to transform education. 

In a rapidly evolving world, it can be argued that traditional education models are being constantly disrupted with the advent of new technological breakthroughs. In 2023 alone we’re seeing massive strides with A.I. and machine learning for example. In fact, according to a report by HolonIQ, the global education market is estimated to reach $10 trillion by 2030, with a growing number of startups and investors seeking to revolutionize the sector.

As we navigate these changes, it's important to understand what sets successful education initiatives apart. What can we learn from the ones that have made a real impact? In this second part episode, we'll dive into some of the groundbreaking solutions that are reshaping education in different contexts around the world.

Following our conversation last time with Janhvi, Susan and Tyler, joining us are the other three 2022 WISE Awards Winning innovators Daniela Labra of Mexico-based project Educating for Wellbeing by AtentaMente, Andrew McCusker of Chicago-based project Opportunity EduFinance by Opportunity International, and Kuldeep Dantewadia of India-based project Climate Change Problem Solvers by Reap Benefit.

Together with WISE Awards program manager, Niamh Whelan, we discussed:

- The 'eureka' moment when creating their projects
- Balancing important stakeholders from beneficiaries to partnerships
- Key challenges they faced and how they overcame them
- And key lessons for other innovators looking to make change in the
education space.
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Relevant links:

Reap Benefit: https://www.instagram.com/reapbenefit/?hl=en

AtentaMente: http://bit.ly/3miroNJ

Opportunity International: https://opportunity.org/

The WISE Awards: bit.ly/3IYvVOe
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Website: wise-qatar.org
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WISE On Air

77: From Theory to Practice - Lessons from WISE Awards Winning Innovators

The Philippines is an archipelagic nation in Southeast Asia, composed of more than 7,000 islands. It has a population of over 110 million people, making it the 13th most populous country in the world. It is also one of the most diverse countries in terms of culture, language, religion, and ethnicity.

Education is a key factor in the development and progress of any country, and the Philippines is no exception. According to the World Bank, the Philippines has made significant improvements in its education system over the past decades, such as increasing enrollment rates, reducing dropout rates, and improving learning outcomes. However, there are still many challenges and gaps that need to be addressed, such as access to quality education and equity of opportunities.

One of the pioneers and leaders of EdTech in the Philippines looking to bridge that gap is WISE accelerator cohort Edukasyon which is a social enterprise that empowers youth in the Philippines and around the world to make informed decisions about their education and career paths. 

Edukasyon.ph was founded by Henry Motte-Muñoz in 2013 after he realized that many Filipino students lacked access to information and guidance on their education options. 

Since then, Edukasyon.ph has grown to become one of the most successful and influential platforms in the Philippines, reaching over 10 million students across the country, while partnering with various stakeholders such as schools, government agencies, and media outlets. 

In today’s episode, WISE Director Elyas Felfoul goes one on one with the Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia honoree, to learn more about his personal story growing up, Henry’s vision for the future of education in the global south, and some of Henry’s thoughts on what AI entails in underserved contexts.
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Relevant links:

https://www.edukasyon.ph

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Website: wise-qatar.org
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WISE On Air Podcast

85: The Edtech Solution That's Changing the Face of Education in the Philippines

chool leadership is critical, but investment has declined. Our guests on this episode of WISE On Air want to transform education by transforming leadership.

Dr. Asmaa Al-Fadala, Dominic Regester, and Anthony Mackay lead WISE ALL-IN, a network reimagining leadership through research, training, and advocacy. Their goal is to modernize education to prepare learners for today's world.

But change takes more than policy. Their lived experiences fueled their drive for systemic change, from role models to seeing inequities firsthand. Their journeys show why leadership matters.

We discuss the challenges we face, why leadership is so critical, and how they are building a community to transform education's future.

Join us as we explore their vision, insights, and why education transformation starts with leadership transformation.

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Relevant links:

Learn more about WISE ALL-IN: https://www.wise-qatar.org/all-in/

Dr. Asmaa Al-Fadala: https://www.wise-qatar.org/biography/asmaa-al-fadala/

Dominic Regester: https://www.salzburgglobal.org/people?userID=33260&viewType=2&cHash=7b27068a13cf0497960582a3beaafae3

Anthony Mackay: https://www.oecd.org/site/forum-world-education/speakers/Anthony_Mackay_FWE19_BIO.pdf

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87: Leading Change - Transformational Leadership in Schools

In this episode, we talk to four young Tunisians who are making waves in their fields of education, filmmaking, public policy, computer science, and edtech. They share their stories, insights, and perspectives on how AI is shaping the future of education, employment, and technology in Tunisia and the region. We also explore the impact and implications of AI and other new technologies on their own work and personal relations.

Samy Chaffai, a filmmaker, content creator, and animal rights advocate who is pursuing a PhD in filmmaking. He is the founder of two YouTube channels, Ti 3leh and Samy Chaffaï, where he produces videos on various topics, such as comedy, education, culture, and social issues. His short movie, Prison of Numbers, premiered in the Pathe movie theaters in Tunis and Sousse in 2021, making him the first YouTuber in Tunisian history to debut a short movie on the big screen.

Nesrine Mbarek, a student, activist, and researcher who is interested in public policy, gender issues, and economic development in the Middle East and North Africa. She is currently pursuing a master’s degree in public policy at Harvard Kennedy School as an Emirates Leadership Initiative Fellow. She graduated from Stanford University with honors in history, focusing on the modern Middle East. She was the president of the American Middle Eastern Network for Dialogue at Stanford and one of the core initiators of Tunisia88, a national project introducing a music program in every high school in Tunisia.

Hajar Boughoula, a software engineer with a knack for crafting beautiful solutions, she has dedicated 7+ years to programming in diverse fields . Specializing in web development, data management & analysis, and Image & Natural Language Processing , Hajar has been enveloped in the world of coding since the age of 13, culminating in extensive experience in engineering and implementing optimal solutions across a wide range of industry software needs.From creating research-focused software for NASA’s Mission to Psyche, to leading tech teams at the Red Crescent in building enterprise management software, she's had the privilege to work on exclusive and complex projects that have shaped her into the well-rounded developer she is today.

Anis Kallel, an entrepreneur, engineer, and content creator who is working on financial inclusion and digital transformation in Africa. He is the co-founder and CTO of Kaoun, a fintech startup that offers a financial super app called Flouci that allows individuals and businesses to create a free bank account and a mobile wallet via smartphone, and access a range of financial and governmental services. He studied computer science and business at the University of Rochester, where he was awarded a full tuition scholarship. He is a Fellow at Harambeans, an alliance of African entrepreneurs, and was nominated as one of the top 100 leaders of tomorrow at the St Gallen Symposium in Switzerland.
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88: The Future is Now - Young Tunisians on AI’s Impact

How can technology and AI amplify grassroots efforts to advance gender equity in education? In this episode of WISE On Air, 2023 WISE Prize for Education Laureate Safeena Husain shares her insights from over 16 years of empowering girls in hard to reach areas.

As founder of Educate Girls, Safeena pioneered community-based models to enroll over 1 million girls in school and boosted learning for over 1.9 million children. Her on-the-ground experience provides a unique lens into uplifting education at the grassroots level.

Join host Aurelio Amaral for a conversation that explores to what extent AI can catalyze systemic change - when combined with grassroots efforts.

Learn more about Educate Girls: https://www.educategirls.ngo

Relive the WISE 11 Experience: https://youtu.be/u8ENVoiIAiM?si=2i77Z8lW5UzPvZTP

Subscribe to WISE On Air: https://pod.link/wiseonair
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91: Can AI Reach Out of School Kids? - Safeena Husain

Can education truly be a beacon of hope and change in the midst of a crisis? Or do we need to fundamentally rethink its utility? In this special episode of WISE On Air, we sit down with Dr. Jeffrey Sachs, a renowned economist and advocate for sustainable development, to explore this pivotal question.

As we navigate through the complexities of ongoing conflicts like in Gaza and the far-reaching impacts of the AI revolution, Dr. Sachs lends his insights into how technology, policy, and sustainable finance can reshape education in times of crisis. We delve into the potential of AI and other innovations in providing scalable education solutions where traditional systems are challenged by extraordinary circumstances.

Join us for a thought-provoking discussion that not only highlights the challenges but also uncovers the opportunities for education to act as a catalyst for resilience and equity in our dynamic world.

Subscribe to WISE On Air: https://pod.link/wiseonair

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92: Redefining Education in Times of Crisis - Jeffrey Sachs

What are the key skills we need to craft AI-resilient minds? In this episode of WISE On Air, Kian Katanforoosh and Mary Burns navigate the nexus of higher education and burgeoning AI-driven job markets. As a leading Computer Science Lecturer at Stanford as well as Founder & CEO of Workera, Kian holds a birds eye view into AI’s complex realms. Meanwhile, Mary works across the globe as an online instructor, curriculum development specialist, instructional designer, evaluator and researcher on effective e-learning programs for teachers and students.

Join us as we aim to pinpoint X essential skills to thrive in an AI-centric future.

Learn more about Mary Burns: https://bit.ly/3Ub5bQo
Learn more about Workera: https://workera.ai

Are you developing an innovative solution that can change the world? Apply for the WISE Prize before 15 March: https://bit.ly/48HmNYw

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94: 3 Skills to Prioritize for the AI Age

How will major global forces such as demographic changes, resource stress, technology, and economic power shifts change our future? 

To answer this question WISE Director and Host of this episode Elyas Felfoul sits down with award winning media executive and entrepreneur Ana Rold. Ana is the founder of Diplomatic Courier which is a flagship network and magazine for top diplomats in the US and key capitals around the world. She founded the World in 2050 project in 2012 which has since convened over 20,000 stakeholders in various private and public sectors. Based on their findings so far we can observe 5 key mega trends that shape the trajectory towards our future. Tune in to WISE On Air to hear more. 

(This episode was recorded in September 2023 during the UNGA)
 
Learn more about Diplomatic Courier: https://www.diplomaticourier.com
Learn more about World in 2050: https://worldin2050.diplomaticourier.com

Subscribe to WISE On Air: https://pod.link/wiseonair

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96: World in 2050 - 5 Key Future Megatrends

This episode of Wise On Air features a discussion with Abdallah Abu Sheikh, a young entrepreneur from the Middle East and founder of Astratech and CEO of Botim. The conversation, hosted by WISE Director Elyas Felfoul delves into Abdallah's unconventional journey through education, his critique of traditional education systems, and his views on failure as a gateway to success. Abdallah shares insights from his own experiences, highlighting the significance of learning from failure, the limitations of conventional schooling, and the potential transformative impact of AI on education and the job market. The episode explores the importance of developing a resilient, dynamic approach to learning and problem-solving in today's rapidly evolving landscape.

Learn more about Astratech: https://astratech.ae/
Subscribe to WISE On Air: https://pod.link/wiseonair

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97: Does School Teach Us to Fear Failure? An Entrepreneurs Perspective

Imagine a future where AI tutors personalize learning for every student, where machines grade homework and provide instant feedback, freeing up teachers to focus on higher-level instruction. This future may be closer than you think.
With such technologies continuing to advance at an unprecedented pace, it's clear that we are on the cusp of a transformative era in education. What will the trajectory for learning in schools be when this technology goes mainstream?
In this episode of WISE On Air, we delve into the heart of this revolution with Katja Sirazitdinova, Senior Deep Learning Data Scientist at NVIDIA. 
As someone working at the forefront of this technology’s development, she has unique insights and expertise into the transformations we should come to expect.
Join WISE Director and Host of this episode Elyas Felfoul in conversation with Katja to get a glimpse of what those front and center are thinking when it comes to deep learning and AI.

Learn more about NVIDIA: https://www.nvidia.com/en-us/
Subscribe to WISE On Air: https://pod.link/wiseonair
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98: What Will Deep Learning Powered Education Look Like? - Katja Sirazitdinova

In this episode of WISE On Air, we dive into the heart of Africa's burgeoning tech scene with Yassine Laghzioui, CEO of UM6P Ventures and Director of Entrepreneurship at Mohammed VI Polytechnic University. Discover how Morocco is positioning itself as the next Silicon Valley of Africa, and learn about the ambitious vision behind UM6P, often called the 'Stanford of Africa'.

Yassine shares insights on:

The untapped potential of Morocco and Africa in innovation
How UM6P is nurturing the next generation of entrepreneurs
The role of deep tech in solving global challenges
The art and science of venture capital in emerging markets

Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, an investor, or simply curious about the future of innovation in Africa, this conversation offers invaluable insights into a rapidly evolving ecosystem.
Join us as we explore how Yassine and his team are working to prove that it is indeed possible to reinvent the future of the world in Africa.

Learn more about UM6P Deep Tech Summit: https://deeptech.um6p.ma/en/
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99: Is Morocco the Next Hub for Innovation in Africa? - Yassine Laghzioui

What if Einstein, Tesla, or Edison had AI on their side? What could they have achieved in their lifetime? As artificial intelligence and extended reality technologies advance at an unprecedented pace, these aren't just hypothetical questions – they're glimpses into a future that's rapidly approaching.

In this episode of WISE On Air, host Elyas Felfoul speaks with Alvin Wang Graylin about the future of education in an AI-powered metaverse. Key points discussed include:

1. The rapid advancement of AI and XR (Extended Reality) technologies and their potential impact on society and education.
2. How AI could provide personalized, immersive learning experiences that unlock human potential at an unprecedented scale.
3. The concept of a global metaverse as a platform for education, creativity, and human interaction.
4. The importance of developing a global, collaborative approach to AI development to ensure it benefits all of humanity.
5. The potential for AI to address educational inequalities by providing high-quality education to anyone, anywhere.
6. The shift in focus from STEM skills to "soft skills" like critical thinking, ethics, and human interaction in an AI-driven world.
7. The need for policymakers to understand and prepare for the societal changes brought about by AI and the metaverse.
8. The potential for AI and the metaverse to create new economic models and change our relationship with work.
9. The importance of aligning AI development with human values and ethics.
10. The role of education in preparing future generations for a world where AI is ubiquitous.

Alvin shares both optimistic and cautionary perspectives on these technologies, emphasizing the need for thoughtful implementation and global cooperation. He argues that while these technologies present challenges, they also offer unprecedented opportunities to solve global problems and enhance human potential.

For more insights on this topic, check out Alvin Wang Graylin's book "Our Next Reality: How AI and the Metaverse Will Shape Our Future: https://ournextreality.com/

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100: Our Next Reality - An AI-Powered Metaverse? - Alvin Wang Graylin

Will AI revolutionize the way teachers work? In this episode of WISE On Air, we explore the transformative potential of artificial intelligence in education with Younes Mourri, founder of LiveTech.AI and AI instructor at Stanford University.

Younes shares insights from his journey from a classroom in Tangier to Silicon Valley, discussing how AI can:

-Reduce administrative burdens on teachers
-Personalize learning experiences for students
-Address educational challenges in the MENA region
-Implement AI systems at a national scale

Join WISE Director Elyas Felfoul and Younes Mourri as they delve into the future of AI-powered education and its potential to enhance both teaching and learning experiences globally.

🎓 About WISE On Air:
WISE On Air is a podcast where we seek insights from the world's leading minds on the future of education and beyond. Brought to you by WISE, the global platform for education innovators.

Learn more about Livetech: https://www.livetech.ai
Learn more about WISE: https://www.wise-qatar.org/

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101: Will AI Lighten the Load for Teachers? - Younes Mourri

At age eight, Zoya Kalinsky was instructed to leave the classroom by her math’s teacher who told her she can only come back when she "stops twitching." - a condition outside of her control. Today, that same girl stands confidently in the United Nations Economic and Social Council chamber, addressing global leaders about her experience, the need to solve the bullying issue once and for all, and how we can transform our education systems to achieve that. 

In this episode, we meet Zoya at thirteen, fresh from speaking at the UN's Summit of the Future and launching ambitious initiatives as Skyway's youth ambassador. The Learning Economy established the Skyway initiative to address the growing need for a modernized approach to learning, as many existing systems struggle to keep up with the demands of an evolving, interconnected global society. Zoya is one of many students pioneering this novel learning model of change.

But Zoya isn't just talking about change – she's living it. Between addressing world leaders and developing youth councils, she composes piano pieces about resilience, creates artwork that challenges bullying, and advocates for young voices in rooms where decisions about their future are made - often without their consent. 

In this episode WISE Director Elyas Felfoul sits down with Zoya to explore how she’s experiencing a whole new way of learning with new technologies that could help create a system where no child feels left behind. Together, they unpack what it really means to transform education in an AI-powered world, and why having young people at the decision-making table isn't just important – it's essential.

Subscribe to WISE On Air: https://pod.link/wiseonair

Learn more about Zoya:

1. Instagram @zoyakalinsky
2. Website www.zoyakalinsky.com 
3. UN anti-bullying speech Nov 2023 https://youtu.be/y_zbZH4fZaU?si=dcGWNS5P-ESh980S
4. Closing remarks and speech for AGIP Youth Power Summit Sept 2024  https://youtu.be/LZOp2X5_1O8?si=UkgnVmLv83LMOysQ
5. Blue Gallery NYC piano performance 2024 https://youtu.be/JoKVmlEWyGw?si=Iv9giXtNx5rn7Z1q
6. Skyway fundraising dinner NYC 2024 https://youtu.be/WPeX83dCdMA?si=zFkFLWND3YL-l_3m
7. iLead Hybrid School press release https://ileadschools.org/ilead-hybrid-7th-grader-zoya-kalinsky-addresses-united-nations/

00:00 Introduction to Skyway and Its Mission
00:45 Meet Zoya Kalinsky: A Journey from Bullying to Advocacy
03:30 Zoya's Homeschooling Experience and Advocacy
09:44 The Role of AI and Technology in Education
16:14 Zoya's Involvement with International Organizations
17:40 The Importance of Youth in Decision-Making
21:13 Traveling and Learning: A Homeschooling Perspective
24:38 Art and Music: Tools for Advocacy
29:05 Future Plans and Upcoming Events

104: Excluded to Empowered: Should Students Design Their Own Learning? - Zoya Kalinsky

In this episode of WISE On Air, we explore the intersection of innovation and education with Alexander Nicholas, Executive Vice President of Learning & Society at XPRIZE. Drawing from his experience leading educational initiatives at the Gates Foundation and now at XPRIZE, Alexander shares insights on how prize competitions can catalyze transformative solutions in education.

Alexander discusses XPRIZE's unique approach to tackling global challenges, from their first space competition to their current work across seven domains including education. He explains how their "brain trust" methodology brings together diverse experts to frame problems and design prizes that drive real impact. Through examples like their global learning prize that reached millions of students in Tanzania, we explore how prize competitions can validate educational technology and create new standards for efficacy.
The conversation delves into Alexander's vision of democratized education, where high-quality learning becomes "demonetized, delocalized and moving into the fabric of society." He shares thoughtful perspectives on how artificial intelligence and emerging technologies might help realize this vision, while emphasizing the importance of keeping solutions globally relevant and contextual.

Join us as we examine how prize competitions could help transform education systems and create more equitable access to learning opportunities worldwide.

Learn more about XPRIZE: https://www.xprize.org

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105: From Space to Schools - How Does XPRIZE Reimagine Learning? - Alexander Nicholas

In this episode of WISE On Air, we dive into an unprecedented global research initiative exploring artificial intelligence's impact on higher education. 

Through conversations with research leads from six institutions across five continents, we uncover how different regions are approaching AI integration in universities and preparing students for an AI-powered future.

Our guests share insights on various critical aspects of AI in higher education, from curriculum integration and faculty development to ethical considerations and workforce preparation. From the halls of an Ivy League institution in the United States to a pioneering university in Kazakhstan, from Spain to India, and beyond - each perspective adds a unique dimension to our understanding of this transformative moment in education.

As part of WISE's latest research initiative, these institutions are collaborating to produce one of the most comprehensive global studies on AI in higher education. The findings, set to be presented at the WISE 12 Summit in Fall 2025, promise to provide actionable insights for education leaders worldwide.

Join us for this enlightening discussion that bridges cultural contexts and institutional approaches to one of education's most pressing challenges: adapting higher education for the age of artificial intelligence.

Learn more about the WISE & IIE Global Research Consortium: https://www.wise-qatar.org/wise-works/wise-research/

Nazarbayev University: https://nu.edu.kz/
Universidad de los Andes: https://www.uniandes.edu.co/
BITS Pilani: https://www.bits-pilani.ac.in/
Ashesi University: https://ashesi.edu.gh/
Universidad Camilo José Cela: https://www.ucjc.edu/
University of Pennsylvania: https://www.upenn.edu/

Subscribe to WISE On Air: pod.link/wiseonair

Thank you to our participating guest speakers:
- Natalia Lara - Universidad Camilo José Cela, Spain
- Joseph Kwame Adjei - Ashesi University, Ghana
- Jagat Sesh Challa - BITS Pilani, India
- Elaine Sharplin - Nazarbayev University, Kazakhstan
- Peter Eckel - University of Pennsylvania, United States
- Mirka Martel - International Institute of Education

00:00 Introduction to the WISE and IIE Global Research Consortium
00:36 Overview of the Research Initiative
01:44 Exploring AI Integration in Higher Education
02:35 Institutional Approaches to AI
04:34 Challenges and Opportunities in AI Adoption
05:37 Global Perspectives on AI in Education
23:15 Ethical Considerations and Risks of AI
30:41 Focus Areas of the Research Consortium
42:51 Conclusion and Future Outlook

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106: AI in Higher Ed - Global Perspective & Collaborative Solutions

In this episode of WISE On Air, host of this episode and Director of Research & Policy at WISE, Selma Talha-Jebril talks to Manos Antoninis, Director of the Global Education Monitoring (GEM) Report, to discuss the recently launched 2024/5 GEM Report and the UNESCO-World Bank Education Finance Watch 2024. 

Manos brings decades of expertise in global education policy and leadership, offering critical insights into the most pressing issues, including severe funding disparities, political influence on education systems, and the growing need for empowered educational leaders. He sheds light on how we can overcome these challenges and push toward achieving Sustainable Development Goal 4 for inclusive, equitable education worldwide.

Read the UNESCO GEM Report: https://bit.ly/4bfK2Lo
Read the Education Finance Watch 2024 Report: https://bit.ly/4kjtdDB

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Website: wise-qatar.org
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00:00 Introduction: The State of Global Education
00:27 Welcome to Wise On Air
00:43 Leadership and Education Investment
01:58 Interview with Manos Antoninis
02:34 Stagnation in Global Education Progress
08:01 The Role of School Leaders
15:54 Autonomy in School Leadership
21:32 Education Finance Disparities
24:15 Global Financial Systems and Education
32:24 The Role of International Organizations
38:29 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

107: When $100 Becomes $1 - Is Education Funding Perpetuating Global Inequality? - Manos Antoninis

WISE On Air #108 is a special chaptered edition of our education podcast, recorded live during the I AM QF 30th Anniversary Celebration. 

Brought to you by WISE — the global platform for innovators in education — this episode brings together 13 insightful conversations with students, educators, researchers, and leaders from across Qatar Foundation and beyond. 

From classroom transformation and labor market shifts, to AI, equity, access, and the future of Education City — this episode explores the most pressing questions and bold ideas shaping the future of learning. 

108: Thirteen Perspectives Shaping the Future of Education in Qatar Foundation

In this episode of WISE On Air, Host & CEO of WISE, Stavros Yiannouka delves into the transformative power of relationships in education with Isabelle Hau, author of "Love to Learn" and Executive Director of the Stanford Accelerator for Learning. As educational systems worldwide continue to prioritize test scores and academic achievement, Hau presents compelling evidence that early loving relationships might be the true foundation of learning and thriving.

Isabelle shares insights on:

-How relationships physically shape brain development and learning capacity
-The growing "relational crisis" affecting children's development and what's driving it
-Where technology and AI fit within relationship-centered learning
-Practical approaches to prioritize connection in schools, homes and communities

Whether you're an educator, parent, or policymaker, this conversation offers a fresh perspective on what truly matters in learning. Join us as we explore the science behind human connection and consider how "relational intelligence" might become a new metric for success in education.

Purchase Isabelle's book, 'Love to Learn': https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/isabelle-c-hau/love-to-learn/9781541703773/

Resources mentioned in the discussion:

Pretend play research (Sansanwal, 2014): https://www.researchgate.net/publication/266081256_Sansanwal_S_2014_Pretend_play_enhances_creativity_and_imagination_Journal_of_Arts_and_Humanities_31_70-83
2024 Phone usage study: https://itc.ua/en/news/study-people-checked-their-phones-an-average-of-205-times-a-day-in-2024-every-5-minutes-excluding-sleep/
Childhood neglect impact on brain development: https://www.apa.org/monitor/2014/06/neglect
Early life adversity and neural development: https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2023-04894-001?doi=1
Neural synchrony between students and teachers: https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/scitranslmed.abq4786

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If you enjoyed this episode, would you consider leaving us a review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It really helps out the show and we would greatly appreciate it.

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109: Relational Intelligence: A New Metric for Success? - Isabelle Hau

What if the answers to today’s climate crisis were rooted in centuries-old traditions? 

In this special edition of WISE On Air, recorded live from Earthna Summit 2025, we sit down with Dr. Grethel Aguilar, Director General of the IUCN, to explore the powerful role of indigenous knowledge in reimagining sustainability and education. 

From traditional ecological practices to the impact of social media and technology on youth learning. This episode is a deep dive into the intersection of legacy, innovation, and the future of our planet. 

110: What We Already Know Can Save Us: Traditional Wisdom for a Sustainable Future - Grethel Aguilar

In this episode of WISE On Air, we sit down with Dr. Sohaira Siddiqui, Executive Director of Al-Mujadilah Center & Mosque for Women, to explore a bold, values-based approach to education.  

From reviving traditional knowledge to balancing critical thinking with community, this conversation reimagines what meaningful learning can look like. 

🎓 About WISE On Air:
WISE On Air is a podcast where we seek insights from the world's leading minds on the future of education and beyond. Brought to you by WISE, the global platform for education innovators.

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If you enjoyed this episode, would you consider leaving us a review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It really helps out the show and we would greatly appreciate it.

Website: wise-qatar.org
Twitter: twitter.com/WISE_Tweets
Youtube: @WISEQatar
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Facebook: facebook.com/wiseqatar/
Linkedin: bit.ly/2JKThYf

111: Where Do Values Fit in Tomorrow’s Education Models? - Dr. Sohaira Siddiqui

Can AI ever replace human creativity?  

 
This episode features Nada Elkharashi, Co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer at Electric Skin, as we dive into the evolving relationship between creativity, sustainability, and artificial intelligence. Nada shares powerful reflections on education, design, and how artists can thrive in the age of intelligent machines without losing their human touch. 

 

Chapters: 

00:00 – Introduction 
01:12 – AI's Impact on Creative Industries 
04:07 – The Irreplaceable Core of Human Creativity 
07:20 – Rethinking Design Education for the AI Era 
10:58 – Sustainability Reimagined Through AI 
13:50 – Teaching the Unteachable: Human-Only Creative Skills 
17:23 – Hope for Human Creativity’s Future 

 
 🎓 About WISE On Air: 

WISE On Air is a podcast where we seek insights from the world's leading minds on the future of education and beyond. Brought to you by WISE, the global platform for education innovators. 

------ 

If you enjoyed this episode, would you consider leaving us a review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It really helps out the show and we would greatly appreciate it. 

 

Website: wise-qatar.org 

Twitter: twitter.com/WISE_Tweets 

Youtube: @WISEQatar 

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Facebook: facebook.com/wiseqatar/ 

Linkedin: bit.ly/2JKThYf 

112: Can Human Creativity Survive the AI Revolution?

What if the future of sustainable architecture lies in ancient techniques? 

 
In this episode of #WISEOnAir, Youness Ouazri, founder of @ecodomemaroc5918, shares how traditional Moroccan Earth-building is offering powerful solutions for modern architectural challenges. From engineering classrooms to rural communities, he reflects on the gaps in conventional education and the potential of ancestral wisdom, hands-on training, and local materials to create a more sustainable and inclusive future. 

 

Chapters: 

00:00 Introduction 

01:54 Engineering vs. Earth Building 

04:34 Sustainability Lessons from Morocco 

07:11 Ancient Wisdom, Modern Standards 

10:26 Bridging the Skills Gap 

11:37 First Impressions of Earth Domes 

14:55 Winning Trust in Earth Construction 

16:06 The Power of Hands-On Training 

17:30 Rethinking Architecture Education 

20:12 Evolving Education for Sustainability 

 
 🎓 About WISE On Air: 

#WISEOnAir is a podcast where we seek insights from the world's leading minds on the future of education and beyond. Brought to you by WISE, the global platform for education innovators. 

------ 

If you enjoyed this episode, would you consider leaving us a review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It really helps out the show and we would greatly appreciate it. 

 

Website: wise-qatar.org 

X: twitter.com/WISE_Tweets 

YouTube: @WISEQatar 

Instagram: @wiseqatar 

Facebook: facebook.com/wiseqatar/ 

LinkedIn: bit.ly/2JKThYf 

113: Are We Teaching to Build Sustainably?

Is Community Wisdom More Powerful Than a Degree? 

In this special conversation, Cameroonian environmentalist Farmer Tantoh explores how indigenous knowledge is not only relevant but vital to solving today’s water and sustainability challenges. 

 
Through stories of clean water access for tens of thousands and grassroots education, he reminds us that environmental learning can thrive outside the classroom. 

Chapters: 
00:00 – Introduction 
01:44 – The State of Water Conservation Today 
02:37 – Are We Teaching Water Issues Effectively? 
03:33 – Rethinking Environmental Education 
04:56 – Reviving Tradition in Modern Communities 
06:01 – What School Missed About Sustainability 
07:34 – Teaching Water Wisdom to the Next Generation 
10:02 – Passing Down Traditional Farming Knowledge 
12:27 – Blending Ancestral Wisdom with Modern Science 
 

If you enjoyed this episode, would you consider leaving us a review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It really helps out the show and we would greatly appreciate it. 

Website: wise-qatar.org 

X: https://x.com/WISE_Tweets 

Instagram: @wiseqatar 

Facebook: facebook.com/wiseqatar/ 

114: Can Ancient Farming Wisdom Solve our Modern Water Crisis?

Register for #WISE12 - Join us for the world's premier education innovation summit: https://wise-qatar.org/wise-12/

In this episode of WISE On Air, we explore the human side of #artificialintelligence with Professor Munther Dahleh, founding director of MIT's Institute for Data Systems and Society. As machines become increasingly capable, Munther argues that understanding people, not just #algorithms, will determine whether AI truly serves humanity.

From his early work designing control systems for spacecraft to his current focus on societal applications of #AI, Munther shares insights on:

- The "trilingual student" concept - why future innovators need technical skills, social science understanding, and domain expertise
- Why he uses ChatGPT for reports but never for recommendation letters
- The hidden dangers of "mediocre systems at scale"
- How self-driving cars force us to confront moral decisions we never ask human drivers to make
- Why he wishes he had studied more philosophy and anthropology
- The future of healthcare, education, and work in an AI-driven world

Munther challenges the notion that technological advancement alone will solve society's problems, emphasizing that the most critical breakthroughs may come from understanding human behavior, ethics, and social systems.

About the Guest:

Professor Munther Dahleh is a Professor at MIT and founding director of the Institute for Data Systems and Society. He is the author of "Data Systems and Society: Harnessing AI for Societal Good" and has spent over three decades working at the intersection of #technology and #society.

00:00 Introduction and Personal Experience with ChatGPT
00:22 Welcome to Wise On Air
00:30 Introducing Professor Munther Dahleh
02:02 The Journey to AI and Control Systems
04:13 From Machines to Social Networks
13:45 The Concept of Trilingual Students
15:28 AI's Impact on Society and Education
25:53 The Future of Jobs and Continuous Learning
29:10 Open Access and Vocational Education
30:31 Ethics and Data Privacy in AI
33:29 Self-Driving Cars and Moral Dilemmas
37:39 Global AI Collaboration and Geopolitics
42:36 AI's Role in Healthcare and Research
49:59 The Future of AI and Human Expertise
52:45 Final Thoughts and Advice for the Next Generation


🎧 Subscribe to WISE On Air: https://pod.link/wiseonair

Learn more about WISE: https://www.wise-qatar.org

115: The Trilingual Student - Why AI Needs Humanity

Are ‘Growth Markets’ the Future of Global Prosperity? 
 In Episode 116 of WISE On Air, Elyas Felfoul, WISE Director, sits down with Dina Sherif, Executive Director of the MIT Kuo Sharper Center for Prosperity and Entrepreneurship, to explore why the world should rethink how we define prosperity. 

 Chapters: 
 00:00 Introduction 
 01:52 What is the Center? 
 03:04 Entrepreneurship Beyond Aid 
 04:43 Demographic Advantage in Growth Markets 
 09:31 Modernization Without Westernization 
 10:40 Are the Developing Markets Ready for 1.2 billion young people? 
 23:57 Uncertainty: The New Normal in the Global Economy 
 27:38 Innovation Ecosystems That Work 
 34:03 Advice for Entrepreneurs in Emerging Economies 

Watch now and join the conversation. 

116: Are 'Growth Markets' the Future of Global Prosperity?

In this episode of WISE On Air, we explore how sensory education is breaking barriers and transforming literacy and numeracy for learners often left behind by traditional systems. We speak with two remarkable WISE Prize finalists who are pioneering innovative solutions for students with diverse needs and communities with limited access to education. 

From Qatar, Ramy Abdulzaher, Co-Founder and COO of @Bonocle, shares how Braille-based technology and gamified learning tools are improving Arabic literacy for visually impaired students. From Nigeria, Gideon Olanrewaju, Chief Executive Director of the Aid for Rural Education Access Initiative (@AREAi), demonstrates how offline digital pens and multilingual resources are delivering literacy programs to refugee camps with no internet access. 

In this episode, we discuss: 

How Braille technology fosters inclusion and engagement for students with visual impairments 

The potential of Fast Track tools to transform literacy learning for underserved communities 

How Bonocle adapts its solutions to meet diverse needs across different regions and communities 

The role of the WISE Prize in helping scale and accelerate these impactful educational initiatives 

This conversation highlights how touch, sound, and human connection are redefining what literacy and learning mean in the twenty-first century and expanding opportunities for students who are often overlooked. 

About the Guests: 

Ramy Abdulzaher is the Co-Founder and COO of Bonocle in Qatar, developing Braille-based solutions to improve Arabic literacy for visually impaired students. 

Gideon Olanrewaju is the Chief Executive Director of AREAi in Nigeria, leading initiatives that bring literacy to refugee communities through offline and multilingual learning technologies. 

🎧 Subscribe to WISE On Air: https://pod.link/wiseonair 

Learn more about WISE: https://www.wise-qatar.org 

Episode Chapters: 
 00:00 Introduction 
 01:27 Introducing Ramy Abdulzaher & Gideon Olanrewaju 
 01:48 How Does Braille Technology Foster Inclusion in Education? 
 04:59 Can the Fast Track Tools Transform Literacy Learning? 
 12:05 How Bonocle Designs for Inclusion Across Communities 
 18:37 How WISE Prize Helped Fast Track 
 21:28 Appreciation and Farewell 

117: Learning Through Touch: How Sensory Education is Breaking Barriers

Join Stavros Yiannouka, CEO of WISE, and Ameena Hussain, Director of Programing at WISE, as they introduce WISE Words, and discuss the many facets of WISE and education.

Introducing WISE Words

Join WISE CEO, Stavros Yiannouka as he and Fareed Zakaria discuss the importance of a liberal education in a time where STEM education is seen as the surest path to success.

Fareed Zakaria:
Twitter: @FareedZakaria
Website: fareedzakaria.com

WISE:
Twitter: @WISE_Tweets
YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/WISEQatar
Website: www.wise-qatar.org/

02: Fareed Zakaria

In this episode, Stavros Yiannouka sits down with founder and CEO of Barefoot College, Meagan Fallone, to learn about how vocational training can effectively be inclusive and contextual.

Meagan Fallone:
Twitter: @barefootmfc
Website: www.barefootcollege.org

WISE:
Twitter: @WISE_Tweets
YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/WISEQatar
Instagram: www.instagram.com/wiseqatar/
Website: www.wise-qatar.org/

10: Experiential Learning in Rural Areas with Meagan Fallone

On this week's episode, Stavros Yiannouka sits down with Dr. Patrick Awuah founder and president of Ashesi University to discuss the African education eco-system, higher ed and how can ethical leaders transform a continent.

15: Educating Ethical Leaders with Patrick Awuah

An education podcast where we talk to the world’s leading minds. Brought to you by WISE: The global platform for innovators in education. Join us as we talk to thought leaders, innovators, educators and artists from around the world about any and all things to do with education.

WISE On Air

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