Dr Laila Kadiwal is a Lecturer in Education and International Development at the UCL Institute of Education. Laila works on the intersections of identity and education in conflict-affected settings. She has researched in India, Pakistan, Tajikistan, and the UK. Dr Kadiwal has specialist interests in the role of education in Muslim contexts.
Laila leads three Modules at IoE: Education, Religion and State: Historical and Contemporary Developments; Education and Muslim Societies and Education and Development in Asia
She has co-founded three organisations: India & Me – a public education programme; International Solidarity for Academic Freedom in India and The Theatre of the Privileged – decolonising education and international development. Laila also co-directs Best Foot Music (https://www.bestfootmusic.net/), an intercultural music and arts organisation. It connects refugee and marginalised musicians with extensive music networks and communities in the UK.
Laila leads a research project on De-weaponising Identities and Education in Crisis and is the Executive Member of UKFIET the Education and International Development Forum.