Institut d’enseignement supérieur social de l’information et de la documentation

Established in 1920, the Institut d’enseignement supérieur social de l’information et de la documentation, or IESSID, has a rich history. Initially, the IESSID, located on Rue de l’Abbaye in Ixelles, focused solely on training social workers. Imagine Brussels in the 1920s, a city rebuilding and redefining itself after the First World War. The IESSID emerged during this era, playing a vital role in shaping the social fabric of the city. The IESSID expanded its reach in 1961, adding a postgraduate specialization in psychosocial work. This one-year program, designed for social workers and professionals from educational and paramedical sectors, provided specialized training in psychiatry. The IESSID continued to evolve. In 1964, the institute welcomed aspiring librarians and documentalists, marking a significant expansion in its academic offerings. The IESSID underwent several name changes throughout its history, reflecting its evolving identity and mission. In 1996, as part of a larger consolidation of schools, it became part of the Haute École Paul-Henri Spaak. Later, it joined the Haute École Bruxelles-Brabant (HE2B) following a merger. This collaboration also fostered a partnership with the Université libre de Bruxelles, further enriching the IESSID’s academic landscape. The IESSID has always adapted to the changing needs of society. A master’s program in social engineering and action was introduced, further enhancing the institute’s commitment to providing advanced training for social work professionals. Today, the IESSID offers a range of programs. The three-year Bachelor’s program in Library and Information Science trains professionals for the challenges of the digital age, focusing on new information and communication technologies. The IESSID also provides a Bachelor’s program in Social Work, a legally protected title under Belgian law. Furthermore, the IESSID offers a Master’s in Social Engineering and Action and specializations in Psychosocial Work in Mental Health and Game Sciences and Technologies. The IESSID stands as a testament to the power of education and its transformative impact on individuals and communities.