Evening Presentation by H.E. MAQSOUD KRUSE, Executive Director, HEDAYAH
Reception 6:30pm
Presentation: 7:00pm 
Close: 8:30pm

The role of education in countering violent extremism has, in recent years, gained greater prominence among policymakers and practitioners. Tackling violent extremism through education is reflective of a broader international shift toward terrorism prevention, and the need to identify the enabling environment for extremists to disseminate their ideologies and recruit supporters. H.E. Maqsoud Kruse, Executive Director of Hedayah — the first international center of excellence for countering violent extremism — will discuss the role of education in promoting tolerance and confronting extremism, and the path to a more peaceful and globalized society.​

H.E. Maqsoud Kruse has served as the Executive Director of Hedayah, The International Center of Excellence for Countering Violent Extremism, since its establishment in 2012. Based in Abu Dhabi, Hedayah Center is an independent, international “Think and Do Tank” focused on countering violent extremism in all of its forms and manifestations by conducting dialogue, capacity building and research. Prior to joining Hedayah, Kruse served as the Head of Planning Section and later as the Psychological Affairs Advisor at Global Aerospace Logistics (GAL), a subsidiary of the Emirates Advanced Investments Group. Prior to joining GAL, Kruse served in the United Arab Emirates Armed Forces working in a variety of settings related to Military Psychology, Strategic Planning and Leadership Development. Kruse holds a Bachelor in Psychology from the United Arab Emirates University and a Master’s in Organizational Psychology from the University of Melbourne in Australia.