Welcome to ICSEI 2026

Crossing Boundaries in Education: Fostering Innovative, Inclusive and Sustainable Learning Environments

Location: Doha, Qatar

Congress Venue: Qatar University

18 - 22 January 2026

Welcome to Doha, Qatar

Dear colleagues, friends, and fellow changemakers,

With great joy and anticipation, we welcome you to Doha, Qatar, and to the 39th International Congress for School Effectiveness and Improvement (ICSEI 2026), taking place from January 18 to 22, 2026.

As Co-Chairs, we are deeply honoured to host this congress in the Arab Gulf world for the very first time. Under the theme “Crossing Boundaries in Education: Fostering Innovative, Inclusive, and Sustainable Learning Environments,” ICSEI 2026 will be a space where boundaries are bridged between research and practice, past and future, local and global and where new possibilities for education take shape.

This extraordinary gathering is made possible through the generous support and vision of the Ministry of Education and Higher Education in Qatar, which proudly sponsors and hosts ICSEI 2026. We are also privileged to partner with Qatar University, our congress venue, and with the Arab Center for Educational Training for the Gulf States, both of which play an essential role in driving educational excellence and innovation in the region.

Doha is more than just our host city, it is a crossroads of civilizations, ideas, and aspirations. Here, ultramodern learning spaces rise beside ancient souqs, and the rhythm of tradition dances with innovation. From Education City’s cutting-edge research hubs and the National Museum of Qatar, to the bustling energy of Souq Waqif, and the architectural wonders of Msheireb Downtown, every corner of Doha tells a story, one of identity, openness, and relentless curiosity.

ICSEI 2026 will be a congress unlike any before it. For the first time, participants will engage in sessions in both English and Arabic, with major events fully translated. We are proud to present an accessible congress for all, where physical, linguistic, and digital inclusion is not just a feature, but a promise. Our vibrant social program will bring delegates face-to-face with Qatar’s culture, heritage, and innovation, while new initiatives such as masterclasses, learning visits, and TED-style talks will ensure that this is not only a conference, but an unforgettable learning experience.

Together, in Doha, we will push the boundaries of what is possible in education. We will listen, challenge, dream, and act guided by our shared commitment to justice, equity, and excellence in schools and systems worldwide.

We can’t wait to welcome you to ICSEI 2026 in Qatar.

Warmest regards,

Dr. Asmaa Al-Fadala & Dr. Ibrahim Alhouti

Co-Chairs, ICSEI 2026 Doha, Qatar

 

Crossing Boundaries in Education: Fostering Innovative, Inclusive and Sustainable Learning Environments.

Congress sub-themes include:

Innovation in Education  

  • Technology Integration and Digital Equity: Addressing the challenges and opportunities of integrating technology in education, focusing on bridging the digital divide and ensuring equitable access to quality digital resources.
  • The Age of Artificial Intelligence: Exploring the integration of AI in teaching and learning processes, focusing on personalised education, flexible instruction, automated administrative tasks, and ethical considerations in AI applications.
  • Digital Literacy in Education: Emphasising the importance of digital literacy skills for students and educators, exploring strategies for incorporating digital literacy into curricula, enhancing critical thinking in digital environments, and ensuring students are equipped to navigate and utilise digital technologies effectively and responsibly.

Inclusivity in Learning Environments 

  • Teacher Education and Professional Development: Examining the evolving role of teachers and the need for ongoing professional development to equip educators with the skills and knowledge required in an evolving educational environment.
  • Equity and Inclusivity in Education: Recognizing the diverse needs of learners and ensuring that education systems are equitable and inclusive, accommodating diverse learning needs and backgrounds.
  • Mental Health and Well-being in Education: Highlighting the importance of mental health and well-being for students and educators and integrating well-being strategies into educational practices.

Sustainability in Education 

  • Global Collaboration and Localised Solutions: Encouraging global collaboration while focusing on localised solutions that cater to the unique needs of diverse educational systems and communities.
  • Sustainable Practices in Education: Addressing the role of education in promoting sustainability, environmental awareness, and global citizenship.

Sponsors & Strategic Partners

H.E. Dr Abdulaziz Al-Horr
Beyond Reform: Education as a Lifelong Journey in the Age of AI
Monday 19 January 3:00-4:15pm
Dr Susanne Wiborg
Why Evidence Alone Can’t Reform Schools: Insight from Comparative Politics of Education
Tuesday 20 January 3:00-4:15pm
Dr Khawla Badwan
Back to the Human: Education in Times of Machines and Failures
Wednesday 21 January 9:00-10:15pm
Dr Ann Lopez
Teaching & Leading in a Globalized World:Towards Educative Action Grounded in Care, Empathy &Justice
Thursday 22 January 1:00-2:15pm

Congress Fees

ICSEI members enjoy discounted registration rates, making it more affordable to participate in this global event. By becoming a member, you not only save on registration but also gain access to a vibrant international network of educators, researchers, and policy makers. You must become an ICSEI member before registering for the Congress to receive the discounted rate. Membership details can be found here. Please ensure you use the same email address when registering for both ICSEI membership and the ICSEI Congress, as this helps us link your records accurately across platforms. *By registering through ConfTool, you acknowledge and accept the cancellation and refund policy. We kindly ask that you read this policy carefully before completing your registration.

ICSEI does not issue invoices to schools, organisations, or universities. All registrations must be completed individually via ConfTool and paid using a credit card or PayPal.

يرجى العلم، أن  ICSEI لا تقوم بإصدار فواتير للمدارس أو المنظمات أو الجامعات. يجب أن يتم التسجيل بشكل فردي من خلال ConfTool ويتم الدفع بواسطة بطاقة الائتمان أو PayPal. ومع ذلك، بالنسبة للمجموعات من 5–10 أشخاص، فإن العضوية المؤسسية في ICSEI هي الخيار الأمثل من خلال تعبئة نموذج خاص بذلك، وعليه يحصلون على العضوية السنوية مقابل 125 دولارًا بدلاً من 150 دولارًا.

Fees in Australian Dollars for Main Congress 19-22 January and additional activities

Membership Early Bird Rates1 Standard Rates 2 Congress Registration- additional activities Fees
ICSEI Member $795.00 $875.00 Master Classes $75.00
Non-Member $950.00 $1,030.00 Early Career Forum $40.00
Low/lower middle income country3 $350.00 $385.00 School Visits $45.00
Student $250.00 $285.00 Conference Dinner & Entertainment $150.00

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1 Early Bird Rates good through 31 October 2025 AEST
2 Standard Rates apply 1 November 2025 – 15 December 2025 AEST
3 Only those who reside in countries currently classified as lower-middle or low income by the World Bank are eligible for these rates; click here to check eligibility 

Additional details: ICSEI Congress Registration and Refunds Policy and Terms and Conditions.

Program Overview

The following is a high-level overview of the ICSEI 2026 program. Please note that the program is subject to change and will be updated with additional information as the Congress approaches. Times are Doha local time.

Note: Due to limited capacity, participants must pre-register for preconference sessions (18 Jan), school visits and the gala dinner. These sessions are not included in the main congress fee and require an additional payment. Everyone is invited to attend “Welcome to ICSEI: An introduction to the ICSEI Networks and Community.” 

Preconference Sessions: The preconference sessions allow ICSEI 2026 participants not only to learn from leading international experts, but also to bring in their viewpoints, share their experiences and raise questions regarding their own work. Please note that lunch is not provided on the 18 January.

Sunday 18th January

Time

18 January Sunday (Preconference)

9:00 – 3:00

Registration check-in

10:00 – 12:30 

Board Meeting

10:00 – 12:30

Master Class #1 (English), #2 (Arabic) & #3 (English)

12:45 – 1:30

Lunch (not provided)

1:30 – 4:00

Master Class #4 (Arabic), #5 (Arabic) & #6 (English)

1:30 – 4:00

Early career forum (Facilitated in English)

2:30 – 4:00

Welcome to ICSEI: An introduction to the ICSEI Networks and Community- All Welcome!  Complimentary session. (Facilitated in English) 

4:45 – 6:15

Junior Scholar Fellowship/Network/Board Informal Connection (invitation only)

 

 

An Overview of the Main Conference Program

Please note:

  • Conference registration open daily between 8am and 4pm.
  • Time variations throughout the four days. 
  • The draft overview may be modified.  
  • Lunch is provided for the main congress.
  • **Pre-registration and fees required prior to event through ConfTool. 

 

Monday 19th January – Thursday 22nd January

Time

19 Jan Monday

Time

20 Jan Tuesday

Time

21 Jan Wednesday

Time

22 Jan Thursday

8.00-4:00

Registration check-in

8.00-4:00

Registration check-in

8.00-4:00

Registration check-in

8.00-4:00

Registration check-in

9:00 -10:30

Opening Ceremony

7:30-10:30

9:00-10:30

**School Visit **

GRID Session

9:00-10:15

Keynote 3

9:00-10:30

Parallel Session 7

10:30-10:45

Transition

10:30-10:45

Transition

10:15-10:45

Transition

10:30-10:45

Transition

10:45-12:15

Parallel Session 1 

10:45-12:15

Parallel Session 3

10:45-12:15

Parallel Session 5

10:45-12:15

Parallel Session 8

12:15-1:15

Lunch Break

12:15-1:15

Lunch Break & Dialogic

12:15-1:15

Lunch Break

12:15-1:00

Lunch Break

1:15-2:45

Parallel Session 2

1:15-2:45

Parallel Session 4

1:15-2:45

Parallel Session 6

1:00-2:15

Keynote 4

2:45-3:00

Transition

2:45-3:00

Transition

2:45-3:00

Transition

2:15-3:30

Closing Ceremony

3:00-4:15

Keynote 1

3:00-4:15

Keynote 2

3:00-4:00

Network Meetings

 

 

4:15 4:30

Transition

4:00-4:15

Transition

5:00-9:00

**Congress Dinner **

 

 

4:30 -5:30

Network Meetings

4:30 -5:30

Network Meetings  

 

 

 

 

5:30 – 7:30

Welcome Reception

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

** Pre-registration and fees required prior to event through ConfTool. 

Notification of Proposal Status is Now Available

ICSEI 2026 Congress Registration is now open at https://www.conftool.com/icsei2026/

IMPORTANT NOTE: All presenting authors and co-authors for accepted proposals will be required to be ICSEI members to present at the Doha 2026 Congress. But good news! The congress registration discount for members is greater than the cost of annual membership. And you will continue to receive discounts on events throughout the year. You can become an ICSEI member at  https://icsei.org/membership/#join

يجب على جميع المؤلفين والمؤلفين المشاركين الذين سيشاركون ويقدمون بحوثهم في مؤتمر ICSEI 2026 أن يكونوا أعضاء حاليين في ICSEI. علمًا بأن الخصم على رسوم تسجيل المؤتمر لأعضاء ICSEI يفوق تكلفة العضوية السنوية.

To confirm your presentation in the ICSEI Congress program, at least one presenting (co-)author of each accepted submission must be registered by 31 October 2025.

Please note that submissions without a registered presenting author by 7 November 2025 will be withdrawn from the program.

We encourage you to take advantage of early bird registration, available until 31 October 2025, and ensure your participation in this exciting event!

Poster sessions: Some of the advantages of presenting a poster at ICSEI.  

  • Visual Presentation: Each poster summarises the key points of a study or initiative, such as objectives, methodology, findings, and implications using visuals like charts, graphs, and bullet points. 
  • Interactive Format: Presenters stand by their posters during the parallel sessions (90 minutes) to discuss their work, answer questions, and engage in informal conversations with attendees. 
  • Flexible Engagement: Unlike formal presentations, poster sessions allow attendees to browse at their own pace, choose which posters to explore, and if they attend the scheduled time, can interact directly with the presenter. 
  • Networking Opportunity: These sessions foster dialogue, feedback, and collaboration among educators, researchers, and practitioners. 

“Did you know that ICSEI has an amazing opportunities available to presenters?” (click on details & terms of conditions)

1. ICSEI/JPCC Innovation Award

The International Congress for School Effectiveness and Improvement (ICSEI) and the Journal of Professional Capital and Community (JPCC) invite applications for the ICSEI / JPCC Innovation Award. This award recognizes an outstanding contribution to the ICSEI 2025 conference that makes an innovative contribution in educational research, policy, and/or practice within the field of professional capital and community. Details here.

 

Masterclasses

We’re pleased to offer enriching masterclasses during the preconference sessions. These provide participants with the opportunity to engage deeply with expert facilitators in focused, interactive learning experiences. Please note that masterclasses require pre-registration and an additional fee. Masterclasses provide intensive, hands-on opportunities to discuss and debate ideas, evidence, practices and strategies. The sessions allow ICSEI 2026 participants not only to learn from leading international experts, but also to bring in their viewpoints, share their experiences and raise questions regarding their own work.

#1 Innovative Pedagogies in Public Policy: Using LEGO® Serious Play®~ Presented in English

Dr Evren Tok – Linked details

This session explores creative approaches to teaching and learning in public policy. Dr. Evren Tok, Associate Dean at the College of Public Policy, Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), will showcase the application of LEGO® Serious Play® (LSP) in public policy education. Drawing on real-world classroom and workshop experiences, Dr. Tok will illustrate how LSP has been used to enhance understanding of the policy process, particularly in framing policy problems, exploring stakeholder perspectives, and co-creating policy solutions. The session will highlight how tactile and visual methods can foster systems thinking, empathy, and collaborative analysis in both graduate education and professional policy labs.

#2 Artificial Intelligence Applications in Teaching and Learning ~ Presented in Arabic

Dr Abdullah Yousef Al-Failakawi – Linked details 

In an era marked by rapid digital transformation, artificial intelligence (AI) has become an essential pillar in reshaping education, empowering educators with innovative tools to enhance creativity and effectiveness. This workshop aims to introduce participants to practical AI applications that can support teaching and learning processes, showcasing real-world examples and cutting-edge tools such as ChatGPT, Whimsical, Bites.shaguf, VEED.IO, and more.

Designed for teachers, university faculty, instructional designers, and education technology enthusiasts, the workshop provides hands-on experience to help educators streamline lesson planning, foster creative thinking, and personalize learning content.

Participants will:

  • Explore AI-powered tools for lesson design, brainstorming, storytelling, presentation creation, and document analysis.
  • Engage in interactive activities to apply AI tools in designing innovative and engaging educational experiences.
  • Discuss the ethical and practical challenges of using AI in educational contexts.

This interactive workshop bridges theory and practice, offering a dynamic experience that inspires educators to reimagine their roles in a smarter, more adaptable learning environment.

#3 Social and Emotional Intelligence in Educational Leadership in the Digital Age: A Key to Human-Centered and Sustainable Impact ~ Presented in English

Dr. Fatma Ghanim Al-Maadheed – Linked details

Education is undergoing rapid transformations due to digitization, evolving modes of human interaction, and the increasing need for leadership skills that transcend traditional administrative and technical abilities. The effectiveness of educational leaders is no longer measured solely by their capacity to manage or deliver outcomes, but rather by their ability to build trust-based relationships, foster belonging, and motivate teams in complex digital environments. In this context, social and emotional intelligence (SEI) emerges as one of the most critical dimensions of modern educational leadership. These competencies enable leaders to interact effectively with others, manage stress, and lead change in a humane and inspiring way, making SEI a core driver in building sustainable and effective educational environments.

This Masterclass explores the critical role of social and emotional intelligence (SEI) in shaping effective and human-centered leadership. Participants will be introduced to the core concepts of SEI and its relevance to leadership in rapidly digitizing educational contexts. They will analyze the impact of digital transformation on human relationships within an educational institute and engage in role-plays and leadership simulations designed to strengthen empathy, self-awareness, and decision-making in complex situations. Finally, the Masterclass will guide participants in designing their own personal development plans, enabling them to embed SEI strategies into their professional practice and promote people-centered leadership within their organizations.

#4 Innovative Pedagogies in Public Policy: Using LEGO® Serious Play®~ Presented in Arabic

Dr Basma Dajani & Dr Evren Tok – Linked Details

This session explores creative approaches to teaching and learning in public policy. Dr Basma Danjani and Dr Evren Tok, Associate Dean at the College of Public Policy, Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), will showcase the application of LEGO® Serious Play® (LSP) in public policy education. Drawing on real-world classroom and workshop experiences, Dr Dajani and Dr Tok will illustrate how LSP has been used to enhance understanding of the policy process, particularly in framing policy problems, exploring stakeholder perspectives, and co-creating policy solutions. The session will highlight how tactile and visual methods can foster systems thinking, empathy, and collaborative analysis in both graduate education and professional policy labs.

#5 Understanding the Primeval Policy Soup: Navigating Educational Policy Design, Implementation, and Evaluation ~ Presented in Arabic 

Dr Mohammed Elmeski – Linked details

Borrowing from Kingdon’s classic metaphor of the policy primeval soup, this master class invites education policy makers, practitioners, and researchers to explore how ideas, problems, and politics interact in shaping education policy. In 2.5 hours, participants will examine how policies emerge, evolve, and gain traction within complex systems—moving from initial concepts through implementation to evaluation. Through case examples and interactive discussion, the session will show how to identify the “ingredients” that matter most, connect policy objectives to measurable outcomes, and use evaluation insights to refine or reframe policy directions. By the end, participants will have a clearer lens for making sense of the dynamic mix that drives real-world policy change in education.

#6 A Practical Guide to Glocalizing You School and Fostering Identity in a Globalized World ~ Presented in English 

Dr Maha Al Romaihi – Linked details

This master class, presented by Dr. Maha Al Romaihi, Director of Tariq Bin Ziad School, will explore the essential framework for establishing a truly glocalized school, an institution that masterfully embraces the local culture and context of its country and student population. Drawing on real-world examples from her experience, Dr. Al Romaihi will guide fellow educators and administrators on how to authentically integrate local language, cultural competency, and values into school programs, arts, and resources. The session will empower participants to design a holistic educational experience that fosters a profound sense of belonging and identity in students, while also equipping them with the skills to thrive in a globalized world.

ICSEI Preconference Early Career Forum

Sunday 18th January 1:30 – 4:00pm (registration required)

Dr Shelby Cosner

We hope that you will join us for the 2026 ICSEI Early Career Forum which is designed to support all early career ICSEI participants. Join us for a dynamic 2 ½ -hour session designed for PhD students and early career researchers as well as those participants who are in the early phases of their work in policy/government and practice (e.g. schools, NGOs). This session will: a) provide insights and support for those in the early phases of their career as well as build important connections and relationships within the ICSEI community. This session is led by Dr Shelby Cosner, Dr. Morrill M. Hall Endowed Chair in Educational Leadership at the University of Georgia (USA). A number of ICSEI members from a diverse set of countries and roles will be contributors to this session, and this full slate of contributors will be announced in early fall. 

Opening Remarks 1:30 AM – 1:45 AM: Welcome and Introduction, setting the stage for a fruitful session.

Part One: 1:45 AM – 2:30: AM – Panel Discussion and QA:  Productively Establishing and Advancing Your Early Career.  Panel members will come from a variety of positions (academic faculty, policy/governmental, practitioner roles) and national settings.  Panel members (who we expect to announce on this website prior to ICSEI) will explore the following questions as well as questions generated by session participants. 

  • Tell us about your career path and why this path appealed to you.  What is it about your current career position in (practice, policy, academy) that appeals to you?
  • What were some of the stronger supports or developmental opportunities that you experienced in your career; how did you access this/these opportunity(ies)?
  • What advice do you have for someone in the early stages of their career?

2:30-2:45 Break and move to tabletop discussions 

Part Two: 2:45 to 3:25 – Small Group Tabletop Topical Discussions led by ICSEI member with experience and expertise in the topical area. You will have an opportunity to explore two topical groups during Part Two. Topics that are likely to be explored include the following:

  • Developing a Research Agenda-Sharing of insights to help early career scholars develop and grow their research agenda.
  • Engaging in Your Initial Job Search and Navigating Career Transitions – Supporting job changers or those exploring different career pathways.
  • Crafting Policy Impact – Sharing of insights for those working in or transitioning to policy roles.
  • Working in the Broader Educational Ecosystem: NGOs and Other Organizations -Sharing insights about the range of educational organizations beyond PK-12 schools and higher education that might be places of employment.
  • Forming Partnerships for Research and Development Projects: Sharing insights about how to develop and sustain partnerships for research and/or development projects.
  • Engaging in Global Collaborations – Sharing of strategies for connecting with international networks.
  • Maximizing Doctoral Studies – Sharing of guidance for doctoral candidates exploring career options.

Part Three, Activity #1: 3:25-3:50 Structured Networking with Other Early Career Forum

Part Three, Activity #2: 3:50 to 4:00 Sharing Your Support Interests and Needs, Concluding Remarks

Gala Dinner at Heenat Salma Farm

Please note: The Gala Dinner is not included in the main congress program and requires pre-registration and a separate fee. Transportation will be provided.

Join us for a special farm-to-table evening at Heenat Salma Farm, located in the historic village of Shahaniya, just 30 minutes from Doha. Since 2018, this eco-cultural retreat has been a favorite in Qatar, known for turning a traditional farm into a vibrant space for organic farming, sustainability, and community. Visitors love its peaceful setting, fresh seasonal produce, artisanal crafts, and inspiring workshops.

  • Transportation will be provided
  • Enjoy a seasonal set menu crafted with fresh, organic produce from the farm and local partners
  • Savor handcrafted desserts and freshly brewed coffee
  • Relax with live music and a cozy bonfire under the stars
  • Take a self-guided tour around the lush farm grounds to discover its sustainable practices and serene landscapes.

Join us for this unique ICSEI 2026 Gala Dinner!

 

 

 

School Visits Information: Tuesday 20 January 7:30-10:30am

School school visits are available as a unique opportunity to observe educational practices in context. These visits are not included in the main congress program and require pre-registration and a separate fee. Transportation will be provided for the school visits.

Qatar Science and Technology Secondary School for Boys [High School: Grade 9 – 12]

Established in 2014, Qatar Science and Technology Secondary School for Boys is a leading public STEM-focused school offering AP and SAT-aligned programs. The school features advanced labs in robotics, biomedical science, renewable energy, and digital fabrication. Recognized among the top 5% of STEM-accredited schools worldwide, it follows a rigorous curriculum designed to prepare students for global academic and research excellence.

Al-Hidaya School for Students with Special Needs – Al Thumama [K-12]
Established in 2005, Al-Hidaya School is a public specialized school for boys and girls that provides personalized education, assistive technologies, and therapies to support cognitive, emotional, and physical development. The school follows a tailored curriculum designed to help students progress and integrate successfully into mainstream education.

Tariq Bin Ziyad School [K-12]
Established in 2004, Tariq Bin Ziyad School is a Qatar Foundation school offering a bilingual education that blends Qatari heritage with global perspectives. It follows the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum and features eco-friendly facilities and specialist labs. The school fosters cultural pride and international-mindedness, preparing students for success in a connected world.

Awsaj Academy [K-12]

Established in 1996, Awsaj Academy is a Qatar Foundation school dedicated to supporting students with mild to moderate learning challenges. It provides individualized, bilingual education and support services in small classes. Internationally accredited for its quality and inclusive approach, Awsaj offers a nurturing environment tailored to meet each student’s unique needs.

Early Childhood Center

Established in 2003, the Early Childhood Center at Qatar University is a public institution dedicated to providing high-quality early childhood education and care. The center follows a research-based curriculum focused on holistic development, incorporating both Arabic and English languages. It emphasizes play-based learning, social-emotional growth, and school readiness, supporting children’s foundational skills in a nurturing and inclusive environment.

Network Meetings

Network Meeting Group

Date

Time

Educational Leadership Network

Monday 19 Jan

4:30-5:30pm

Early Childhood Education and Care Network 

Monday 19 Jan

4:30-5:30pm

Evidence-Informed Change Network 

Tuesday 20 Jan

4:30-5:30pm

Professional Learning Network

Tuesday 20 Jan

4:30-5:30pm

Culture, Race, and Intersectionality Network

Tuesday 20 Jan

4:30-5:30pm

Crisis Response in Education Network

Wednesday 21 Jan

3:00-4:15pm

Policymakers, Politicians and Practitioners Network

Wednesday 21 Jan

3:00-4:15pm

 

GRID Spotlight Session

Tuesday 20 January 9:00-10:30am

Dr Ann Lopes, Prof Awad Ibrahim and Dr Mauricio Pino-Yancovic at ICSEI 2025 GRID Spotlight Session

GRID stands for Generational Renewal, Inclusion and Diversity: GRID provides insight, advice, feedback, and perspective to Board activities and decision making through the lens of diversity, equity, inclusion, and generational renewal.

 

 

 

Travel Information

Flights to Doha

Qatar Airways connects over 150 destinations worldwide to Doha, and more than 50 international airlines fly to Doha. 

Visa Requirements:

Qatar is one of the world’s most welcoming countries for visitors. Nationalities from 101 countries can enter visa-free, and all others can apply for an e-visa using the Hayya platform online. Check visa eligibility here.

Electricity in Qatar:

In Qatar, the standard plug type is Type G (British style plug with three rectangular pins). The electrical system operates at a frequency of 50 Hz and a supply voltage of 240 V AC. Bring appropriate adapters if needed.  

Transportation:

Various public transportation services are available in Qatar (Uber, taxis, underground trains, and buses).

Karwa Taxi: The flag fall rate for Karwa taxi within Doha starts at QR 4 and QR 1.6 per km while outside Doha is QR 1.90 per km (also applicable to the night-time fare)

Uber Taxi: The fare for UberX starts from QR 8. The final fare will vary depending on the distance, peak hour, and traffic along the way.

Rentals:

Metro: 2QAR per trip and you need to purchase a metro card from a metro station so you can easily commute within Qatar. https://www.qr.com.qa/home

Musheireb Downtown Doha (MDD)

You can take the free Msheireb Tram 

Currency and Payment in Doha:

The currency of Doha is the Qatari Riyal (QAR). All payment methods are accepted in most places in Doha (Cash, Visa and Master Cards, Apple and Google Pay). We recommend having a small amount of Qatari Riyal in cash just in case; exchange offices are available at Doha airport.

Emergency Contact number:

The emergency number in Qatar is 999, accessible 24/7. It connects you to police, fire, and ambulance services. The operators provide instructions based on your situation and offer support in multiple languages.

Accommodation information

The Congress venue is Qatar University. This link provides a list of hotels in Qatar from 5 stars to 2 stars and includes details about the distance and the areas. Hotels: https://www.doha-hotels.net/all-hotels/

Please note that all bookings are the sole responsibility of individual participants. The Local Organizing Committee and ICSEI are not liable for any arrangements madeGoogle Maps 

We are pleased to advise that shuttle services will be available from the following hotels to Qatar University, the venue for the ICSEI 2026 Congress. These services are provided to support participants with convenient transportation throughout the congress.

Participating Hotels:

 

Shuttles will operate daily during the congress, with scheduled pick-up and drop-off times. Full details, including timetables and pick-up locations, will be shared closer to the event.

Premier Inn

 

Dusit Hotel & Suites

 

Millennium Hotel

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Key Dates

  • 30 April – Call for proposals available
  • 7 May – Proposal submission system open
  • 17 June – EXTENDED -Proposal submission system closes
  • 16 August – Registration opens
  • 16 August – Notification of successful proposals
  • 30 September- Draft program available
  • 30 September – Presenter Guidelines available
  • 31 October – Early Bird registration closes
  • 15 December – Registration closes
  • 18 January – Pre-conference events *additional fees
  • 19 January – Congress Opening Day 1
  • 19-22 January – Main conference Day 1 – 4

ICSEI/JPCC Innovation Award

Applications open 16 August & close 15 October 2025.

The International Congress for School Effectiveness and Improvement (ICSEI) and the Journal of Professional Capital and Community (JPCC) invite applications for the ICSEI / JPCC Innovation Award. This award recognizes an outstanding contribution to the ICSEI 2026 conference that makes an innovative contribution in educational research, policy, and/or practice within the field of professional capital and community. 

JPCC is an international, professionally refereed, scholarly journal, reflecting the most important ideas and evidence of the nature and impact of interactions and relationships in the education profession, especially in the school sector. This journal brings together the most influential leading thinkers and emerging scholars on professional cultures, communities and collegiality and how they all contribute to or impede the development of the professional capital in schools and school systems that enhances students’ learning, wellbeing, achievement, and engagement. 

Details here

ICSEI 2025 Winners

The ICSEI Junior Scholar Fellows

This Fellowship program is made possible through a generous grant from the Spencer Foundation, aimed at supporting the next generation of scholars.

 

Sheena Bell is a sessional lecturer at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE) at the University of Toronto. Her research is at the intersection of education leadership, management and policy implementation. Sheena’s recent work explores how district education office leaders and the middle tier support teaching and learning in sub-Saharan Africa (Ghana, Rwanda and Senegal). Her work has been published in the International Journal of Education Development and Education Administration Quarterly.  She holds a PhD in Educational Leadership and Policy (Comparative and International Education) from OISE, University of Toronto. Previously, she worked in education policy and data with RTI-International, UNICEF and UNESCO Institute for Statistics. 

 

Fatima Zahra Elboussaidi is the Executive Director of IPDA-Morocco and an English language educator with over twenty years of experience in public education. She currently serves as an adjunct professor at the École Normale Supérieure (ENS), Mohammed V University, Rabat, and is pursuing doctoral research at Ibn Tofail University. Her research focuses on professional learning networks (PLNs), continuous professional development (CPD), teacher well-being, and intercultural teaching methodologies. 

Elboussaidi is an active member of the ICSEI PLN network. She is also a Catalyst 2030 associate, coordinator at EcoManka, and graduate of the International Class at the East Side Institute (USA, 2023–2024). Her published and forthcoming works explore transformative pedagogical practices, play-based learning, and equity-oriented education in African contexts.

 

 

Yi-jung Wu earned her Ph.D. in Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis, with a minor in Educational Psychology, from the University of Wisconsin–Madison in 2024. Her research examines distributed leadership, school improvement, and cross-cultural adaptation of leadership assessment tools. Her doctoral work applied the Comprehensive Assessment of Leadership for Learning (CALL) to Taiwan’s elementary school context, highlighting relational trust as a key factor in effective leadership. She aims to advance evidence-based and collaborative leadership practices that promote equity and instructional quality in schools. Sally is passionate about strengthening international academic exchange to connect Taiwan’s educational research with global conversations on educational leadership and policy.

 

Laila Ali Al-Aamri is a Ph.D. Candidate in Educational Administration, with a strong academic foundation that includes a Master’s degree in Educational Administration (2014) and a Bachelor’s degree in Education (1998). Her research interests center on educational leadership, with a particular focus on enhancing school effectiveness and empowering teachers through evidence-based practices. She has actively contributed to the academic community by presenting her work at several notable conferences, including:

  • The Role of Authentic Leadership in Determining Teachers’ Job Satisfaction in Public Schools in Oman – 11th GCC Comparative Education Conference
  • Technostress and Its Relationship with Teachers’ Job Satisfaction in Omani Public Schools – 6th Scientific Conference on Educational Administration and Planning
  • Teachers’ Stress Levels and Their Relationship with Demographic Variables in Omani Public Schools – 9th International Conference on Education: Psychology in Ordinary and Special Circumstances

Her ongoing research aims to inform policy and practice in educational leadership, with a commitment to fostering positive school environments and supporting teacher wellbeing.

Yuting Wang is currently pursuing an MPhil in Education at Beijing Normal University, focusing on family-school-community collaboration and educational leadership. Her research interests include exploring the role of school leaders, particularly principals, in fostering family-school partnerships and their impact on educational quality. Wang has published several papers in SSCI and other Chinese and English journals, covering topics such as leadership resilience, parental involvement, and educational governance. In addition to her academic research, she serves as the president of the Education Management Society at Beijing Normal University, where she has organized multiple academic forums and actively promoted scholarly exchange in the field of educational management. Wang is also the project leader of the Excellence in Principal Leadership program in Anhui Province, where she provides training and development support to enhance educational leadership and practice.

She has been an active contributor to various research projects on family-school-community collaboration and educational leadership, and has guided numerous principals and teachers in successfully securing research grants, supporting schools in underdeveloped regions in completing project applications, and obtaining educational development funding. She has also received several accolades, including the Outstanding Paper Award at the International Postgraduate Roundtable and Research Forum (IPRRFSS) at EdUHK. 

 

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