English-friendly TEDx talks to push boundaries this summer in Prague

The TEDx educational talk series is returning for a sixth Prague edition, which will take place at DOX on July 14. The talks are intended to encourage participants to rethink their own ideas and discover new points of view.

The theme of this year's event, “Nonsense,” promises to reveal new takes on sense and nonsense in education; bring interesting perspectives that can open up creative space; contribute to further development in areas such as the future with regard to artificial intelligence and relationships between children and teachers; and touch on controversial topics in the education system.

Individual talks will be in either English or Czech, with simultaneous translations available to make them accessible. The conference is open to the public and tickets can be purchased through the GoOut platform. It is held under the auspices of the City of Prague and the Prague 7 Municipal District.

“This year's theme of nonsense is playful and will encourage us to ask questions such as: does it make sense to us? Isn't it nonsense? Can nonsense make sense? And that's what I enjoy,” TEDxPragueED ambassador Markéta Jedličková said.

Attendees can expect provocative and inspiring ideas from well-known and lesser-known speakers. They will discuss how seemingly irrational ideas and concepts can lead to discovery, educational progress, and societal transformation.

Speakers will cover topics ranging from artificial intelligence, which is becoming increasingly pervasive, to transgender issues in education. A standout guest this time is Christopher Rosewarne, a film concept designer who has worked on the look of several high-profile projects including the current versions of Dune.

The supporting program will feature an unusual performance by singer Marley Wildthing. Participants will be able to see the paintings of street artist Julius Reichl, who received a suspended sentence at one time for his graffiti activities.

The lettering style from one of his paintings was used to create the event's main graphic and appears on all promotional and graphic artwork. “I don't think of myself as a painter. I try to work as a typographer with the layout of the surface, with the image almost like a poster,” Reichl said.

Another side activity is a financial game taking people through their entire financial life from adulthood to retirement. It is in partnership with People in Need, an NGO that has a large variety of educational programs.