Panel Discussion
Resilient Learning in Times of Crisis: Technology, AI and Sustainable Futures
Date Thursday, Dec 4 Time – Room: King
Please note: This is a Sign-In Session with limited capacity. Click “Mark this Session” to reserve your place. If you can’t attend, please unmark it so others may join. Seats of participants who haven’t arrived 5 minutes after the start will be released to others on site.
Education systems are under strain from conflict, displacement, and climate crises, yet learners and educators continue to find ways to adapt. This panel explores how technology, AI, and innovative models can strengthen resilience and ensure continuity in the most challenging contexts. From trauma-aware, AI-powered approaches to sustaining learning during war, to global strategies for continuity when schools are disrupted, to new social business models that secure long-term support for displaced learners, the speakers highlight practical and sustainable pathways for keeping education alive in times of crisis and beyond.
David Hollow
Research Director, EdTech Hub
David leads Jigsaw Education, an independent education research organisation focused on low-income countries with specialisms in EdTech, climate education and refugee education. He is also the Research Director at EdTech Hub, a global movement working for an evidence-driven future in EdTech. He has worked in over 25 countries, helping governments, donors and NGOs to use evidence to bring about lasting change in education. David holds a PhD from the University of London (2010) and serves on various boards, including for Refugee Education UK.
Links
Ihor Katernyak
Associate Professor, Ivan Franko National University of Lviv (Ukraine)
Ihor Katernyak is affiliated with Ivan Franko National University of Lviv in Ukraine. He holds a PhD in Physics and Mathematics and serves as an Associate Professor in the Electronics & Computer Technology Department. His research interests encompass e-learning, knowledge management, digital transformation in education, entrepreneurship, tech startups, technology transfer, and open innovation. He has been published in reputable journals such as Higher Education, Skills and Work-based Learning, Universal Journal of Education Research, and Interactive Technology and Smart Education, among others.
Furthermore, he initiated a series of events including the "Idea Marathon" (held annually from March to May), "Innovation Spring" as a brokerage event (held annually in April), and "Startup Jam" (held from November to December). These events are designed to inspire young researchers and students to explore their ideas in the contexts of value innovation and tech startups. In addition, he is an expert in Innovation policy and ICT4Dev.
Ihor Katernyak is also the founder and CEO of the Ukrainian Distance Learning (UDL) System NGO.
Manuela Verduci
CEO, Kiron Digital Learning Solutions
Manuela Verduci is a TEDx speaker and the CEO at Kiron Digital Learning Solutions, where she passionately drives the mission to expand educational access to underserved communities worldwide.
Currently pursuing a PhD at the Free University of Berlin, Manuela holds a Master’s degree in Philosophy from the University of Florence. She is a published author with multiple publications about philosophy, migration, and diversity.
Beyond her professional commitments, Manuela dedicates her time to educating tech entrepreneurs on philosophy of technology, fostering a deeper understanding of ethical implications in the digital age.
Moderator
Sulaiman Alshathri
Assistant Professor of Educational Administration, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU)
Dr. Sulaiman Alshathri is an Assistant Professor of Educational Administration at Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU) in Saudi Arabia. He completed his Master’s degree at the University of Hull and earned his PhD from University College London (UCL) in the United Kingdom, with a focus on e-learning, blended learning design, educational leadership, and planning.
He is an active academic who teaches, researches, and supervises initiatives related to educational leadership and the development of digital and blended learning in higher education. His work explores themes such as organisational trust, digital transformation in universities, e-learning policy, and strategic educational planning. He has presented his research at international conferences in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, and has several peer-reviewed publications in recognised journals.
Alongside his academic role, Dr. Alshathri has contributed to the establishment of educational centres, initiatives, and professional associations. He also works in the field of media and institutional communication and has supported national organizations and universities through advisory roles in strategy, communication, and training programs. He regularly delivers workshops and training for educational leaders and professionals.
His professional interests bring together education, leadership, media, and organisational development, with a focus on creating practical impact in both academic and institutional environments.