| Issue 4
Essa Al Mannai
Reaching out to Asia
Executive Director of Education Above All Foundation’s Reach Out To
Asia (ROTA) programme, Essa Al Mannai, reflects on the rewards and
challenges of delivering educational initiatives in over a dozen countries.
Guided by Qatar’s 2030 National Vision, ROTA’s volunteer-led work to
increase access to quality education among underprivileged school children
throughout Asia is nothing short of inspiring.
a daily basis with a dedicated
passionate team really enriches the
professional journey, and instils a
sense of confidence that we can
overcome any potential challenge
together. Also, the diversity of our
projects, partners, and beneficiaries
brings a sense of excitement and
helps avoids routine.
What has been your most
challenging moment at ROTA?
| Wall construction volunteer team, ROTA programme
Tell us about your current
position at ROTA?
I first joined ROTA in 2009 and
serve as the programme’s Executive
Director. My principal professional
endeavour is implementing
the strategic course set by our
leadership. During this tenure, I
have led a variety of initiatives in 15
countries across Asia and MENA,
including Indonesia, Pakistan,
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Nepal, Palestine, and Lebanon,
as well as in Qatar itself. These
projects typically involve educational
leadership and teacher training, as
well as sports, environmental and
skills development.
What is your favourite part of
the job?
Being part of ROTA’s working
environment is truly an exceptional
experience in itself. Working on
The bombing of our schools in
Gaza was without doubt one of
the most traumatic and challenging
moments. Yet it is also an example
of our resilience, and how we can
transform a sad event into a success
story. The children’s incredible
enthusiasm to continue attending
school, despite the severe damage,
inspired us to rebuild in record
time, and the project is now fully
functioning again. ROTA has