• Perennial theme: “Building the Future of Education”
• Sub-themes: “Improving Education System” and “ Exploring Innovative Trends”
• Extra Plenary Session: “Funding Education”

The second World Innovation Summit for Education (WISE) took place in Doha, Qatar, from 7 to 9 December 2010, further advancing the vision of Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser. In addition to a full programme of Plenary and Breakout Sessions, WISE 2010 introduced several new and lively features that made the Summit more interactive.

For example, in the Spotlight Sessions, individuals shared their personal stories and experiences in smaller gatherings. Here, the 2010 WISE Awards winners engaged attendees in their visionary educational projects. The sessions also provided a stage for the “Learners’ Voice” – a group of 20 students from around the world – to offer their original and stimulating perspectives. Along with so many attendees who interacted with them, the participation of these young people brought a vital new dimension to the Summit.

Workshops constituted another new opportunity for dynamic change in 2010, bringing together key decision makers to address specific issues such as “Rebuilding the Education System in Haiti” or the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) results. A special session focussed on the progress made toward the education-related United Nations Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), including the achievement of universal primary education. In all these sessions, there were spirited exchanges of views. The Haiti Workshop launched a task force to study and address the country’s acute educational problems.

In the Closing Plenary Session,  the world’s first major international prize for education was launched. The annual WISE Prize for Education – which recognises and rewards an individual or a team for an outstanding, world-class contribution to education. The Laureate receivec $500,000 (US) and a gold medal. The WISE Prize supports the WISE  mission to place education at the forefront of the world’s political and social agenda, drawing attention to the urgent need for investment.

Conclusions of the event