Progressive Education
At Qatar Foundation, we’ve continuously challenged the assumptions of classroom education to rethink and refine models of how students learn, while continuing to deliver the highest quality of education available.
Innovative education leads to innovative thinking, and we strongly believe that the time is right to advance an educational approach that has remained largely unchanged for over a century. We want to make education more adaptive to the needs of students, and empower every child’s curiosity, creativity, and individuality—fostering an attitude for learning that will build a more resilient world. This is what we call progressive education, and we are actively pursuing it through our ecosystem of schools, universities, and other scholastic centers.
Impact Through Innovation
Qatar Foundation’s (QF) own ecosystem of knowledge is testament to its belief in educational innovation. It aims to reimagine what learning can be, and mean – and support those who want to do the same.
And as 2023 began, this belief was demonstrated by the winners of Qatar Spotlight – a joint initiative between QF and HundrED, a not-for-profit organization that identifies and shares innovations in K-12 education – being unveiled.
The ceremony at QF’s Education City saw 10 innovations capable of being scaled up around the world and making an impact on pre-university education receive Qatar Spotlight awards, among them a specially-crafted program that aims to guide and inspire students to be the ethical leaders of tomorrow.
Through the Ethics Curriculum at Qatar Academy Al Wakra – part of QF’s Pre-University Education – young learners from pre-school to Grade 12 are supported to make informed ethical decisions that help them become drivers of positive change in their societies.
Qatar Foundation’s (QF) own ecosystem of knowledge is testament to its belief in educational innovation. It aims to reimagine what learning can be, and mean – and support those who want to do the same.
And as 2023 began, this belief was demonstrated by the winners of Qatar Spotlight – a joint initiative between QF and HundrED, a not-for-profit organization that identifies and shares innovations in K-12 education – being unveiled.
The ceremony at QF’s Education City saw 10 innovations capable of being scaled up around the world and making an impact on pre-university education receive Qatar Spotlight awards, among them a specially-crafted program that aims to guide and inspire students to be the ethical leaders of tomorrow.
Through the Ethics Curriculum at Qatar Academy Al Wakra – part of QF’s Pre-University Education – young learners from pre-school to Grade 12 are supported to make informed ethical decisions that help them become drivers of positive change in their societies.
I feel pride and happiness in the innovation of students and teachers that contribute to making education an enjoyable and attractive experience, and instill the value of research and exploration among our students.
The 10 winning Qatar Spotlight projects were:
- Qatar Science & Technology Secondary School for Boys’ biotechnology and biomedical engineering program
- Qatar Academy Al Wakra’s Ethics Curriculum
- Al Faisal Without Borders Foundation’s Farm Your Country program
- Tariq Bin Ziad School’s Glocalization initiative
- Sherborne Qatar Preparatory School’s Museum in Residence project
- Zainab Preparatory School for Girls’ My Friend Robot project
- Academyati’s Quests initiative
- Qatar Academy Sidra’s Science and Sustainability Club project
- Qatar National Library’s Science Book Forum project
- Juwayriyah bint Al-Harith Primary School for Girls’ Virtual Learning Resources project
Art Opens Eyes
Learning experiences with art at their heart were opened up for students across Qatar in 2023 – at a landmark art installation within QF’s Education City.
Opened in 2019, Seeroo fi al ardh is the final artwork of the late, renowned Indian artist Maqbool Fida Husain, which pays tribute to humanity’s spirit of innovation through an experience that comprises crystal glass horses, the Flying Man sculpture of Abbas ibn Firnas, a bronze replica of Leonardo da Vinci’s Flying Machine, vintage cars, and a vibrant mosaic, on a carousel synchronized to music.
And with Seeroo fi al ardh now embedded within the educational curriculum in Qatar, visits by school students and teachers allowed them to see how it can act as a learning tool, with its message about humankind being incorporated into lessons and teaching plans.
Among those visiting was Tracy Worner, Head of GEMS American Academy Qatar’s Drama Department, who said: “Students need to be exposed to as many creative experiences as possible – it inspires them and expands their minds.”
Learning experiences with art at their heart were opened up for students across Qatar in 2023 – at a landmark art installation within QF’s Education City.
Opened in 2019, Seeroo fi al ardh is the final artwork of the late, renowned Indian artist Maqbool Fida Husain, which pays tribute to humanity’s spirit of innovation through an experience that comprises crystal glass horses, the Flying Man sculpture of Abbas ibn Firnas, a bronze replica of Leonardo da Vinci’s Flying Machine, vintage cars, and a vibrant mosaic, on a carousel synchronized to music.
And with Seeroo fi al ardh now embedded within the educational curriculum in Qatar, visits by school students and teachers allowed them to see how it can act as a learning tool, with its message about humankind being incorporated into lessons and teaching plans.
Among those visiting was Tracy Worner, Head of GEMS American Academy Qatar’s Drama Department, who said: “Students need to be exposed to as many creative experiences as possible – it inspires them and expands their minds.”
Arts, and arts education skills, can carry over into all other academic subjects, and into life outside the classroom.
Expertise on Display
New regional ground was broken for spoken language technologies in January, as students from around the world participated in the first hackathon in this field to be staged in the Middle East and North Africa – collaborating to devise ways of using technology to increase language understanding.
It formed part of the 2022 IEEE Spoken Language Technology Workshop, held in the region for the first time with HBKU’s Qatar Computing Research Institute as the host, with global experts discussing advances in areas including automated speech recognition, machine learning for languages, and text-to-speech applications.
Meanwhile, QF-generated expertise in solar energy was showcased by HBKU’s Qatar Environment and Energy Research Institute at the 8th World Conference on Photovoltaic Energy Conversion, the world’s biggest platform for photovoltaic research and development.
And Haya Al Ansari, a second-year medical student at QF partner university Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, presented research into a rare and incurable blood cancer, which she worked on with doctors from New York, at a leading US health conference focused on hematology.
New regional ground was broken for spoken language technologies in January, as students from around the world participated in the first hackathon in this field to be staged in the Middle East and North Africa – collaborating to devise ways of using technology to increase language understanding.
It formed part of the 2022 IEEE Spoken Language Technology Workshop, held in the region for the first time with HBKU’s Qatar Computing Research Institute as the host, with global experts discussing advances in areas including automated speech recognition, machine learning for languages, and text-to-speech applications.
Meanwhile, QF-generated expertise in solar energy was showcased by HBKU’s Qatar Environment and Energy Research Institute at the 8th World Conference on Photovoltaic Energy Conversion, the world’s biggest platform for photovoltaic research and development.
And Haya Al Ansari, a second-year medical student at QF partner university Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, presented research into a rare and incurable blood cancer, which she worked on with doctors from New York, at a leading US health conference focused on hematology.
Advocating for the Arabic Language
Helping learners and teachers to navigate the Arabic language was the purpose of a new book published by a QF professor in January – promoting a concept which he believes can help protect the language for future generations.
‘Spoken Arabic: The Third Language’, by QF partner university Georgetown University in Qatar assistant professor Dr. Abdul Rahman Chamseddine, advocates for linguistic theories that apply certain colloquial forms of the language to classical Arabic, making it easier to speak; and provides a practical guide to using this “third language” for native and non-native Arabic speakers.
And QF partner university Northwestern University in Qatar was awarded a $350,000 grant by the Carnegie Corporation of New York to expand its Arab Information and Media Studies field and launch a research initiative focusing on the impact of the emerging world order on the Arab world and Global South.
“Our project has a triple distinction,” said Northwestern Qatar dean and CEO Marwan M Kraidy. “It is hosted at Northwestern, a global leader in communication, journalism, the social sciences, and the humanities. It is located in the Arab region. And it is explicitly trilingual, reflecting the rich pan-Arab diversity of research languages and tradition.”
Helping learners and teachers to navigate the Arabic language was the purpose of a new book published by a QF professor in January – promoting a concept which he believes can help protect the language for future generations.
‘Spoken Arabic: The Third Language’, by QF partner university Georgetown University in Qatar assistant professor Dr. Abdul Rahman Chamseddine, advocates for linguistic theories that apply certain colloquial forms of the language to classical Arabic, making it easier to speak; and provides a practical guide to using this “third language” for native and non-native Arabic speakers.
And QF partner university Northwestern University in Qatar was awarded a $350,000 grant by the Carnegie Corporation of New York to expand its Arab Information and Media Studies field and launch a research initiative focusing on the impact of the emerging world order on the Arab world and Global South.
“Our project has a triple distinction,” said Northwestern Qatar dean and CEO Marwan M Kraidy. “It is hosted at Northwestern, a global leader in communication, journalism, the social sciences, and the humanities. It is located in the Arab region. And it is explicitly trilingual, reflecting the rich pan-Arab diversity of research languages and tradition.”
We are not using Classical or even Modern Standard Arabic in our daily lives. If we don’t find a better version of spoken Arabic that is closer to fusha, we will lose it completely.
Putting Learning at the Community’s Core
Throughout Doha, February saw education taken beyond the classroom – with children and young people, families, and the whole community invited to explore what learning means by QF’s global education think tank WISE.
The three-day Doha Learning Days festival in Msheireb Downtown Doha offered hands-on learning activities in informal settings, centered around the theme of youth empowerment, with workshops and activities ranging from advocacy, arts, and wellbeing to entrepreneurship, technology, and science.
They included an experiential tech workshop where young learners got to grips with coding and created their own arcade games; an entrepreneurship workshop teaching students how to work together to solve challenges; and a session, My Different Friends, where students aged 8-10 learned about autism, and wrote messages to the community urging them to make the world a better place for people with autism.
“Differences are everywhere, even in the types of play we prefer and the ways in which we express our feelings,” said Fatima Al Muraikhi, one of three Qatari mothers who established the Autism Parents Platform, the session’s organizers. “Diversity in us, and in all aspects of life, is what makes it more beautiful.”
Throughout Doha, February saw education taken beyond the classroom – with children and young people, families, and the whole community invited to explore what learning means by QF’s global education think tank WISE.
The three-day Doha Learning Days festival in Msheireb Downtown Doha offered hands-on learning activities in informal settings, centered around the theme of youth empowerment, with workshops and activities ranging from advocacy, arts, and wellbeing to entrepreneurship, technology, and science.
They included an experiential tech workshop where young learners got to grips with coding and created their own arcade games; an entrepreneurship workshop teaching students how to work together to solve challenges; and a session, My Different Friends, where students aged 8-10 learned about autism, and wrote messages to the community urging them to make the world a better place for people with autism.
“Differences are everywhere, even in the types of play we prefer and the ways in which we express our feelings,” said Fatima Al Muraikhi, one of three Qatari mothers who established the Autism Parents Platform, the session’s organizers. “Diversity in us, and in all aspects of life, is what makes it more beautiful.”
When children are engaged in a learning activity outside the classroom, it takes them out of their routine and comfort zone – it offers them a challenge that makes them start to ask questions, investigate, and even compete.
Startups and Service
Education through entrepreneurship was also on the agenda at one of QF’s schools in February – with the launch of a competition designed to help students start, run, and market their own business.
‘Have an Impact’ was created by Tariq Bin Ziad School, part of QF’s Pre-University Education (PUE), in collaboration with Qatar Charity, Qatari Women Association for Economic Awareness & Investment, and delivery platform Snoonu, with the aim of giving young learners a grounding in how to turn their ambitions into reality. The students’ final products went on sale through Snoonu, with proceeds going to Qatar Charity.
Meanwhile, teachers, educators, and experts from across Qatar shared methods and strategies for teaching the Arabic language at the third edition of the Education Forum on Heritage and Identity, organized by PUE’s Education Development Institute and the Arab Center for Policy and Research Studies – Tarsheed.
The event included interactive workshops delivered by Arabic teachers on topics ranging from writing Arabic and making Arabic classes accessible to those with learning challenges, to how technology, music, drama, and electronic platforms can support Arabic teaching strategies.
Education through entrepreneurship was also on the agenda at one of QF’s schools in February – with the launch of a competition designed to help students start, run, and market their own business.
‘Have an Impact’ was created by Tariq Bin Ziad School, part of QF’s Pre-University Education (PUE), in collaboration with Qatar Charity, Qatari Women Association for Economic Awareness & Investment, and delivery platform Snoonu, with the aim of giving young learners a grounding in how to turn their ambitions into reality. The students’ final products went on sale through Snoonu, with proceeds going to Qatar Charity.
Meanwhile, teachers, educators, and experts from across Qatar shared methods and strategies for teaching the Arabic language at the third edition of the Education Forum on Heritage and Identity, organized by PUE’s Education Development Institute and the Arab Center for Policy and Research Studies – Tarsheed.
The event included interactive workshops delivered by Arabic teachers on topics ranging from writing Arabic and making Arabic classes accessible to those with learning challenges, to how technology, music, drama, and electronic platforms can support Arabic teaching strategies.
Teaching our younger generations skills of productivity, entrepreneurship, innovation, and creativity is crucial to make sure they grow to be positive change agents in our communities, and leaders.
- More than 60 teams applied to take part in ‘Have an Impact’, with 24 projects shortlisted.
- Over 300 teachers from government and private schools in Qatar participated in sessions at the Education Forum on Heritage and Identity.
A New Dimension
A world-first approach to 3D printing which can embed self-healing properties into materials – and could help pave the way for a new generation of electronics, sensors, and solar cells – was demonstrated by QF’s Hamad Bin Khalifa University in February.
The university has formed a research partnership with Massachusetts Institute of Technology to develop a full-scale system that allows the Self-Assembled Molecular 3D printing approach to be taken into real-world use.
“Molecular self-assembly in 3D printing is a novel and disruptive approach that could define new frontiers,” said Dr. Rachid Zaffou, Senior Planning and Research Director, HBKU.
HBKU also sealed its place among the world’s top 200 universities in human biological sciences, in the latest edition of ShanghaiRanking’s Global Ranking of Academic Subjects, based on the work of its College of Health and Life Sciences (CHLS), Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI), and Qatar Computing Research Institute (QCRI) in this field.
A world-first approach to 3D printing which can embed self-healing properties into materials – and could help pave the way for a new generation of electronics, sensors, and solar cells – was demonstrated by QF’s Hamad Bin Khalifa University in February.
The university has formed a research partnership with Massachusetts Institute of Technology to develop a full-scale system that allows the Self-Assembled Molecular 3D printing approach to be taken into real-world use.
“Molecular self-assembly in 3D printing is a novel and disruptive approach that could define new frontiers,” said Dr. Rachid Zaffou, Senior Planning and Research Director, HBKU.
HBKU also sealed its place among the world’s top 200 universities in human biological sciences, in the latest edition of ShanghaiRanking’s Global Ranking of Academic Subjects, based on the work of its College of Health and Life Sciences (CHLS), Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI), and Qatar Computing Research Institute (QCRI) in this field.
This is a monumental achievement for HBKU that reflects its commitment to developing world-class multidisciplinary academic programs.
Arts, Excellence, and Inquiry
In March, the performing arts talent that exists within QF’s schools was on show – through SHOWTIME!
The 2023 edition of the musical showcase – created by students, teachers, and staff from schools under QF’s Pre-University Education – featured hits from shows such as Aladdin, Grease, The Sound of Music, and Anastasia, as well as the debut of a new song in Arabic and English by Qatari composer Dana Al Fardan, called ‘Now or Never’.
Meanwhile, 14 QF students were honored at the 16th edition of Qatar’s Education Excellence Awards, among them Faisal Al Dosari, a grade 6 student at QF’s Qatar Academy Doha, whose message to her fellow students was: “If you have a dream, keep working hard and never give up – you can achieve anything if you believe in yourself and work hard for it.”
And QF Pre-University Education’s student enrichment program launched an inquiry-based afterschool mathematics program to help high school students think creatively to solve complex programs. Harnessing QF’s integrated ecosystem of knowledge, sessions were led by mathematics professors from three of its international partner universities and from its Hamad Bin Khalifa University.
In March, the performing arts talent that exists within QF’s schools was on show – through SHOWTIME!
The 2023 edition of the musical showcase – created by students, teachers, and staff from schools under QF’s Pre-University Education – featured hits from shows such as Aladdin, Grease, The Sound of Music, and Anastasia, as well as the debut of a new song in Arabic and English by Qatari composer Dana Al Fardan, called ‘Now or Never’.
Meanwhile, 14 QF students were honored at the 16th edition of Qatar’s Education Excellence Awards, among them Faisal Al Dosari, a grade 6 student at QF’s Qatar Academy Doha, whose message to her fellow students was: “If you have a dream, keep working hard and never give up – you can achieve anything if you believe in yourself and work hard for it.”
And QF Pre-University Education’s student enrichment program launched an inquiry-based afterschool mathematics program to help high school students think creatively to solve complex programs. Harnessing QF’s integrated ecosystem of knowledge, sessions were led by mathematics professors from three of its international partner universities and from its Hamad Bin Khalifa University.
Musical theater can help stretch children beyond their abilities, or beyond what they think their limits are. They begin learning so much about themselves, and this increases their confidence and helps them overcome challenges.
Pathways to Knowledge
One of the characteristics of QF’s unique, integrated ecosystem is the opportunity it provides for collaboration – and this was again demonstrated in March as scholars from four Education City universities at Education City pooled their expertise in the name of knowledge.
Funded by a QF grant, professors from Georgetown University in Qatar, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar, and Northwestern University in Qatar began developing a curriculum that can be adapted worldwide to teach students about religious diversity, tolerance, and co-existence in the Arab and Islamic world.
And Qatar Foundation International (QFI) also opened new doors to knowledge, supporting a group of UK students to take an immersive Arabic language and culture trip to Qatar through its Connecting Classrooms program. Designed to promote the Arabic language and connect people from different backgrounds and cultures, it included enabling the students to join classes at QF schools.
“We are committed to making the Arabic language a viable choice in language classrooms,” said Latrecia Wilson, Executive Director of QFI. “This means providing teachers, researchers, administrators and the whole Arabic language ecosystem with access to the networks and support they need, and helping students access the lifechanging opportunities that learning Arabic affords.”
One of the characteristics of QF’s unique, integrated ecosystem is the opportunity it provides for collaboration – and this was again demonstrated in March as scholars from four Education City universities at Education City pooled their expertise in the name of knowledge.
Funded by a QF grant, professors from Georgetown University in Qatar, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar, and Northwestern University in Qatar began developing a curriculum that can be adapted worldwide to teach students about religious diversity, tolerance, and co-existence in the Arab and Islamic world.
And Qatar Foundation International (QFI) also opened new doors to knowledge, supporting a group of UK students to take an immersive Arabic language and culture trip to Qatar through its Connecting Classrooms program. Designed to promote the Arabic language and connect people from different backgrounds and cultures, it included enabling the students to join classes at QF schools.
“We are committed to making the Arabic language a viable choice in language classrooms,” said Latrecia Wilson, Executive Director of QFI. “This means providing teachers, researchers, administrators and the whole Arabic language ecosystem with access to the networks and support they need, and helping students access the lifechanging opportunities that learning Arabic affords.”
The importance of the Arabic language is increasing daily in the world, and it is also an important language for many of our students who will be able, through learning it, to communicate more effectively with the people of Arab countries.
Skilled in Science
High school students from Qatar steeled their nerves to showcase their research and presentation skills to a national audience in March, as QF’s Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) and the Ministry of Education and Higher Education hosted the Qatar Youth Science Forum 2023.
Technologies presented by the science-minded students included biodegradable crayons to reduce waste to specialized communication and entertainment systems for quadriplegic patients. Five winning teams were chosen to represent Qatar at the prestigious London International Science Forum.
Together with Qatar University, HBKU also co-hosted the fourth World Association for Sport Management Conference – the first to be held in the Middle East and North Africa region – as, in the wake of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™, it explored the latest trends in the sports industry.
A Hub of Healthcare
And leading figures in proteomics – which can support disease diagnosis and personalized medicine – gathered at Education City for a conference organized by QF partner university Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, discussing new developments in this field and reflecting Qatar’s growing status as a precision health hub.
High school students from Qatar steeled their nerves to showcase their research and presentation skills to a national audience in March, as QF’s Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) and the Ministry of Education and Higher Education hosted the Qatar Youth Science Forum 2023.
Technologies presented by the science-minded students included biodegradable crayons to reduce waste to specialized communication and entertainment systems for quadriplegic patients. Five winning teams were chosen to represent Qatar at the prestigious London International Science Forum.
Together with Qatar University, HBKU also co-hosted the fourth World Association for Sport Management Conference – the first to be held in the Middle East and North Africa region – as, in the wake of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™, it explored the latest trends in the sports industry.
We hope that our research projects will inspire other young people in Qatar to pursue their passion for science and technology.
Learning Through Stories
Meanwhile, QF’s edutainment TV series, Siraj, launched a special Ramadan edition for children in Qatar and across the Arab world.
The episodes, showcasing the stories of the Prophets, invited children to join beloved Siraj characters Rashid and Noura on a journey of education and values such as tolerance, honesty, patience, responsibility, humility, and justice – and enjoy a fun learning experience that reflected the essence of Ramadan.
“In this digital age, with technology and the internet being a big part of our lives, it is essential to have a program like Siraj for our children,” said Sulaiman Timbo Bah, Community Engagement and Outreach Coordinator at Minaretein (Education City Mosque). “It is a much-needed initiative that provides them with an opportunity to learn moral and ethical values.
“It is a great way to teach children about the attributes of the Prophets and how to emulate them in their lives. We must take responsibility for telling our own stories in a way that resonates with our children.”
Meanwhile, QF’s edutainment TV series, Siraj, launched a special Ramadan edition for children in Qatar and across the Arab world.
The episodes, showcasing the stories of the Prophets, invited children to join beloved Siraj characters Rashid and Noura on a journey of education and values such as tolerance, honesty, patience, responsibility, humility, and justice – and enjoy a fun learning experience that reflected the essence of Ramadan.
“In this digital age, with technology and the internet being a big part of our lives, it is essential to have a program like Siraj for our children,” said Sulaiman Timbo Bah, Community Engagement and Outreach Coordinator at Minaretein (Education City Mosque). “It is a much-needed initiative that provides them with an opportunity to learn moral and ethical values.
“It is a great way to teach children about the attributes of the Prophets and how to emulate them in their lives. We must take responsibility for telling our own stories in a way that resonates with our children.”
Ultimately, we hope that this series will contribute to creating a better and more compassionate society.
The Reward for Excellence
Elsewhere across QF’s ecosystem, students from QF partner university Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar were honored for their creative skills as they received Arab Engineering Bureau Awards for Design Excellence.
There were also celebrations for final-year students at QF partner university Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar (WCM-Q), who secured residencies to continue their training at elite institutions in Qatar and the US; while those who may one day follow in their footsteps were welcomed to WCM-Q, as its week-long Qatar Medical Explorer Program saw 29 high school students experience campus life as a medical student.
On the Global Stage
Beyond Qatar, QF’s Hamad Bin Khalifa University Press showcased a new range of its original and translated titles, and placed its authors and translators on the international stage, by attending the London Book Fair – one of the biggest literary gatherings in Europe – for the fourth time.
The publishing house’s presence in the British capital was based around the theme of international community-building through literature, by giving a platform to unique Qatari and Arab stories and voices.
Elsewhere across QF’s ecosystem, students from QF partner university Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar were honored for their creative skills as they received Arab Engineering Bureau Awards for Design Excellence.
There were also celebrations for final-year students at QF partner university Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar (WCM-Q), who secured residencies to continue their training at elite institutions in Qatar and the US; while those who may one day follow in their footsteps were welcomed to WCM-Q, as its week-long Qatar Medical Explorer Program saw 29 high school students experience campus life as a medical student.
I enjoyed the program because it helped me develop my skills and gave me insight into the knowledge and aspects I need to be aware of to hopefully join WCM-Q.
WCM-Q students who secured residencies at top medical institutions are specializing in:
- Neurology
- Family medicine
- Internal medicine
- General surgery
- Pediatrics
An Educational Ambassador
For Hend Zainal, education is “my work and my passion” – and this passion led to her becoming the first person in Qatar, and only the second in the Gulf region, to be selected for a prestigious international fellowship that she aims to use to support higher education in Qatar.
The Executive Director of Strategy, Management and Partnerships at QF’s Higher Education division, was accepted into the American Council on Education (ACE) Fellows Program, a year-long program that develops educators’ skills and equips them for leadership roles in the field.
Zainal, an alumna of two of QF’s partner universities, was the only member of the program’s 2023-24 cohort from outside the US, and said: “I plan to maximize the opportunities for gathering and exchanging knowledge it will offer so that I can bring these back to Qatar and support the advancement of QF’s higher education strategy, as well as higher education in Qatar as a whole.
“With Qatar becoming globally regarded as an educational hub, I also hope to use my selection as an ACE Fellow to represent the nation and help to promote its significant investment and efforts in education to my international peers.”
For Hend Zainal, education is “my work and my passion” – and this passion led to her becoming the first person in Qatar, and only the second in the Gulf region, to be selected for a prestigious international fellowship that she aims to use to support higher education in Qatar.
The Executive Director of Strategy, Management and Partnerships at QF’s Higher Education division, was accepted into the American Council on Education (ACE) Fellows Program, a year-long program that develops educators’ skills and equips them for leadership roles in the field.
Zainal, an alumna of two of QF’s partner universities, was the only member of the program’s 2023-24 cohort from outside the US, and said: “I plan to maximize the opportunities for gathering and exchanging knowledge it will offer so that I can bring these back to Qatar and support the advancement of QF’s higher education strategy, as well as higher education in Qatar as a whole.
“With Qatar becoming globally regarded as an educational hub, I also hope to use my selection as an ACE Fellow to represent the nation and help to promote its significant investment and efforts in education to my international peers.”
A Step into the Future
They dedicated themselves to learning, discovery, and service throughout their years at Education City – and, in May, it was their time to shine in the QF Convocation spotlight.
QF’s annual celebration of the graduates of its universities saw its latest batch of future leaders and change-drivers follow in the footsteps of so many before them, as they strode through the Door to the Future – the traditional Convocation moment symbolizing the end of one chapter of their journey, and the opening of the next.
The ceremony was attended by Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, who also honored 16 graduates from across Education City with Al Ihsan awards – recognizing not only their academic achievements, but also their qualities of leadership, innovation, and creativity.
And each member of QF’s Class of 2023 was presented with a special piece of jewelry – designed in Qatar, and inspired by Education City – as a Convocation gift, and a memento of their time within an education landscape that has no comparison.
They dedicated themselves to learning, discovery, and service throughout their years at Education City – and, in May, it was their time to shine in the QF Convocation spotlight.
QF’s annual celebration of the graduates of its universities saw its latest batch of future leaders and change-drivers follow in the footsteps of so many before them, as they strode through the Door to the Future – the traditional Convocation moment symbolizing the end of one chapter of their journey, and the opening of the next.
The ceremony was attended by Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, who also honored 16 graduates from across Education City with Al Ihsan awards – recognizing not only their academic achievements, but also their qualities of leadership, innovation, and creativity.
And each member of QF’s Class of 2023 was presented with a special piece of jewelry – designed in Qatar, and inspired by Education City – as a Convocation gift, and a memento of their time within an education landscape that has no comparison.
For so many of these graduates, the next step on their path will see them make valuable contributions to the development of Qatar, as they bring their talent into our nation’s workforce.
- 874 students graduated from QF universities in the 2022-23 academic year
- The Class of 2023 represented 77 nationalities – including 313 Qatari graduates
- Over 8,800 students have now graduated from QF universities
Dreams Without Limits
In fields ranging from medicine, engineering, art and design, communication, and international affairs, to Islamic studies, law and public policy, computing, humanities and social sciences, and business, the Class of 2023 gained a world-class education that also provided opportunities for cross-cultural learning, social contribution, and nurturing new interests.
Among them was Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar (VCUarts Qatar) graduate Fatima Al-Mannai, who said: “The breadth of opportunities – beyond just academic – that were available to me as a student in QF’s unique ecosystem is undoubtedly what made me into the person graduating today.”
And Aisha Al-Mohannadi, who graduated from Georgetown University in Qatar (GU-Q), explained: “The biggest lesson I’ve lived and learned during my time as a student at Education City is that there are no limits to our dreams if we are willing to work hard.”
Alongside Convocation, QF’s Hamad Bin Khalifa University and its partner universities – VCUarts Qatar, GU-Q, Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar, HEC Paris in Qatar, Northwestern University in Qatar, Texas A&M University at Qatar, and Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar – each celebrated their graduates amid a sense of reflection, pride, and individual and collective achievement.
In fields ranging from medicine, engineering, art and design, communication, and international affairs, to Islamic studies, law and public policy, computing, humanities and social sciences, and business, the Class of 2023 gained a world-class education that also provided opportunities for cross-cultural learning, social contribution, and nurturing new interests.
Among them was Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar (VCUarts Qatar) graduate Fatima Al-Mannai, who said: “The breadth of opportunities – beyond just academic – that were available to me as a student in QF’s unique ecosystem is undoubtedly what made me into the person graduating today.”
And Aisha Al-Mohannadi, who graduated from Georgetown University in Qatar (GU-Q), explained: “The biggest lesson I’ve lived and learned during my time as a student at Education City is that there are no limits to our dreams if we are willing to work hard.”
Alongside Convocation, QF’s Hamad Bin Khalifa University and its partner universities – VCUarts Qatar, GU-Q, Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar, HEC Paris in Qatar, Northwestern University in Qatar, Texas A&M University at Qatar, and Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar – each celebrated their graduates amid a sense of reflection, pride, and individual and collective achievement.
QF fueled my passion and motivated me to pursue this dream, which is being realized today with my graduation.
One Community…Reconnected
As QF’s global community of alumni grew with the graduation of the Class of 2023, hundreds of past graduates of its ecosystem of education – which, as well as universities, also includes 13 schools – were brought together at Education City to reconnect, and share their stories and experiences.
QF’s annual Alumni Forum, held days after Convocation, also allowed its alumni to build their networks and air their views on topics such as career pathways and job opportunities – explaining the challenges they face to key decision-makers, and discussing solutions for addressing them.
And they received a message from Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, who, speaking at the Forum, said: “Most innovations around the world – especially in the fields of education and health – have stemmed from new ideas that students share.
“This Forum is intended to enhance the relationships between our alumni, and is an opportunity for you to meet your peers, turn relationships into friendships, and then turn these friendships into partnerships and projects.”
As QF’s global community of alumni grew with the graduation of the Class of 2023, hundreds of past graduates of its ecosystem of education – which, as well as universities, also includes 13 schools – were brought together at Education City to reconnect, and share their stories and experiences.
QF’s annual Alumni Forum, held days after Convocation, also allowed its alumni to build their networks and air their views on topics such as career pathways and job opportunities – explaining the challenges they face to key decision-makers, and discussing solutions for addressing them.
And they received a message from Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, who, speaking at the Forum, said: “Most innovations around the world – especially in the fields of education and health – have stemmed from new ideas that students share.
“This Forum is intended to enhance the relationships between our alumni, and is an opportunity for you to meet your peers, turn relationships into friendships, and then turn these friendships into partnerships and projects.”
Our alumni are the greatest embodiment of QF’s investment, and belief, in the power of education to allow everyone to define their path, realize their potential, and benefit Qatar, the region, and the world.
Discovering an Ecosystem
And following Convocation, QF invited the community of Qatar to join in the celebrations of its students and alumni, and discover the landscape of knowledge that sets them on the path to successful careers and lives – at its annual Aljam’a event.
Across three days, members of the public mingled with alumni of QF’s schools and universities as, together, they participated in a series of educational workshops and showcases, and learned more about the full depth and breadth of the QF ecosystem.
Professional development, academic, and cultural workshops spanned a range of topics, including elevator pitches, startup guides for entrepreneurs, calligraphy, sadu weaving, and bukhoor mixing; while Aljam’a also featured musical performances, fashion exhibitions, innovation displays, and demonstrations of the research being carried out by QF students within and beyond the classroom.
And in the event’s Market Zone, QF alumni who have gone on to launch successful businesses showcased their products and services, and told visitors about their own entrepreneurial journey.
And following Convocation, QF invited the community of Qatar to join in the celebrations of its students and alumni, and discover the landscape of knowledge that sets them on the path to successful careers and lives – at its annual Aljam’a event.
Across three days, members of the public mingled with alumni of QF’s schools and universities as, together, they participated in a series of educational workshops and showcases, and learned more about the full depth and breadth of the QF ecosystem.
Professional development, academic, and cultural workshops spanned a range of topics, including elevator pitches, startup guides for entrepreneurs, calligraphy, sadu weaving, and bukhoor mixing; while Aljam’a also featured musical performances, fashion exhibitions, innovation displays, and demonstrations of the research being carried out by QF students within and beyond the classroom.
And in the event’s Market Zone, QF alumni who have gone on to launch successful businesses showcased their products and services, and told visitors about their own entrepreneurial journey.
The learning opportunities available to students across QF enable them to connect with each other and use resources in ways that would not normally be possible, and Aljam’a is a celebration of this.
Guided by Values
With good moral character and strong values in their minds and hearts, they are role models for others and catalysts for positive change in society – and, in May, they were recognized through QF’s Akhlaquna Award and Akhlaquna Junior Award.
Launched in 2017, Akhlaquna emphasizes the interconnectivity between knowledge, education, and morality, and promotes ethics as a basis for success in life, with the morals adopted by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) at its core.
And the 2023 winners of the awards were honored by Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, at a special Education City ceremony which included two new categories: the Akhlaquna Appreciation Award – won by Sidra Medicine’s Chief of Pediatric Chest Diseases, Dr. Ibrahim Al-Janahi, for his ethical leadership – and the Initiative Award.
“Through my initiative, I aspire to spread gratitude and embody the virtues of humility and thankfulness,” said Al-Nawar Al-Thani, one of three winners of the Initiative Award, whose project thanks workers by providing them with meals and messages of gratitude. “It is my belief that, by practicing these morals, we can foster a stronger sense of unity, compassion, and appreciation within our society, making it a better place for everyone.”
With good moral character and strong values in their minds and hearts, they are role models for others and catalysts for positive change in society – and, in May, they were recognized through QF’s Akhlaquna Award and Akhlaquna Junior Award.
Launched in 2017, Akhlaquna emphasizes the interconnectivity between knowledge, education, and morality, and promotes ethics as a basis for success in life, with the morals adopted by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) at its core.
And the 2023 winners of the awards were honored by Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, at a special Education City ceremony which included two new categories: the Akhlaquna Appreciation Award – won by Sidra Medicine’s Chief of Pediatric Chest Diseases, Dr. Ibrahim Al-Janahi, for his ethical leadership – and the Initiative Award.
“Through my initiative, I aspire to spread gratitude and embody the virtues of humility and thankfulness,” said Al-Nawar Al-Thani, one of three winners of the Initiative Award, whose project thanks workers by providing them with meals and messages of gratitude. “It is my belief that, by practicing these morals, we can foster a stronger sense of unity, compassion, and appreciation within our society, making it a better place for everyone.”
Morals play a crucial role in our lives, and it is our duty to embrace them and inspire others to follow suit.
The Akhlaquna Award for 2023 was won by student-led initiative Asehaa, which raises awareness about eating disorders and was developed by:
- Al Dana Al Sulaiti
- Amna Al Hammadi
- Alanoud Al Matwi
- Shikha Alanood Ahmed AlThani
- Leen Alabdulrazzak
- Haya Weal
The Akhlaquna Junior Award was won by 12 students across 3 age categories
An Accessible Achievement
Providing equal opportunities for people with diverse abilities to embrace and enjoy sport, all year round, QF’s Ability Friendly Program is an empowering dissolver of barriers – and a symbol of the organization’s belief in inclusivity.
And in May, its participants and coaches were lauded for their achievements and their dedication at an Ability Friendly Recognition Awards ceremony, where the bonds between the program’s growing community were strengthened further.
Among those receiving awards was Jassim Al-Ali, whose mother Aisha said: “The program has been a tremendous blessing, offering him opportunities for growth and development.
“Through his commitment to training, he has not only acquired valuable skills, but also blossomed in his ability to communicate and connect with his fellow colleagues. I am grateful for how this program has positively impacted his life, fostering a sense of belonging and empowering him to reach his full potential.”
For more information about QF’s Ability Friendly Program, or to participate or volunteer, email abilityfriendly@qf.org.qa
Providing equal opportunities for people with diverse abilities to embrace and enjoy sport, all year round, QF’s Ability Friendly Program is an empowering dissolver of barriers – and a symbol of the organization’s belief in inclusivity.
And in May, its participants and coaches were lauded for their achievements and their dedication at an Ability Friendly Recognition Awards ceremony, where the bonds between the program’s growing community were strengthened further.
Among those receiving awards was Jassim Al-Ali, whose mother Aisha said: “The program has been a tremendous blessing, offering him opportunities for growth and development.
“Through his commitment to training, he has not only acquired valuable skills, but also blossomed in his ability to communicate and connect with his fellow colleagues. I am grateful for how this program has positively impacted his life, fostering a sense of belonging and empowering him to reach his full potential.”
For more information about QF’s Ability Friendly Program, or to participate or volunteer, email abilityfriendly@qf.org.qa
He no longer sees his disability as a hindrance, but rather as an opportunity for growth and contribution.
QF’s Ability Friendly Program offers:
- A football program
- A swimming program
- A playball program
- A movement and meditation program
- Summer and winter camps
The Pillars of Learning
The essential role of local teachers in shaping young lives and building a stronger society in Qatar was reinforced in May, as QF brought together teachers from across the nation to share their stories, experiences, and practices – and help build the foundations of lifelong learning.
The second annual Qatari Educators Gathering, organized by QF Pre-University Education’s (PUE) Education Development Institute, encouraged teachers to invest in their professional development, serve as role models for those they teach and empower, and build networks of communication between each other, with a particular focus on Qatari teachers.
Abeer Al Khalifa, President of Pre-University Education, QF, told the teachers who attended the gathering: “Teachers are the main pillars in our schools, the driving force behind the success of our students and their progress toward building a better future – as well as a source of pride in their heritage and national identity.
“Teachers are role models; they instill important values and beliefs in young people.”
The essential role of local teachers in shaping young lives and building a stronger society in Qatar was reinforced in May, as QF brought together teachers from across the nation to share their stories, experiences, and practices – and help build the foundations of lifelong learning.
The second annual Qatari Educators Gathering, organized by QF Pre-University Education’s (PUE) Education Development Institute, encouraged teachers to invest in their professional development, serve as role models for those they teach and empower, and build networks of communication between each other, with a particular focus on Qatari teachers.
Abeer Al Khalifa, President of Pre-University Education, QF, told the teachers who attended the gathering: “Teachers are the main pillars in our schools, the driving force behind the success of our students and their progress toward building a better future – as well as a source of pride in their heritage and national identity.
“Teachers are role models; they instill important values and beliefs in young people.”
Global Perspectives
International experts in education headed to the Colombian city of Medellin in May for one of Latin America’s biggest educational events – with QF’s global education initiative WISE being instrumental in connecting them to help chart new paths for the future of learning.
Together with the Global Education Forum (GEF), WISE organized the GEF & WISE@Medellin international summit under the theme “Beyond Education: Involving a Whole New Society in Learning’, with sessions focusing on topics including what future education models could look like, and the evolution of what it takes to be a true educational leader.
Driving Dialogue
QF’s Doha Debates was also building connections through the podcast route – bringing its signature approach to debate to its new ‘Doha Debates Podcast’, where guests representing different and often opposing viewpoints on key global issues try to find common ground.
And QF-founded QatarDebate organized the first International Conference on Debate and Dialogue, where over 800 experts and youth from around the world exchanged ideas about debating and learned from debate-focused research and insights.
International experts in education headed to the Colombian city of Medellin in May for one of Latin America’s biggest educational events – with QF’s global education initiative WISE being instrumental in connecting them to help chart new paths for the future of learning.
Together with the Global Education Forum (GEF), WISE organized the GEF & WISE@Medellin international summit under the theme “Beyond Education: Involving a Whole New Society in Learning’, with sessions focusing on topics including what future education models could look like, and the evolution of what it takes to be a true educational leader.
This summit is a great example of WISE’s mission as an organization that promotes and supports innovation in education in all its aspects.
Arabic Exploration
Key questions and themes that shape the teaching and learning of Arabic in Europe and the UK were placed in the spotlight by Qatar Foundation International (QFI) in April, at a Brussels symposium that enabled educators, policymakers, and academics to share their perspectives.
QFI has, for 14 years, encouraged the teaching of Arabic as a global language offered in classrooms beyond the Arab world, by supporting the professionalization of Arabic teaching, and research-driven methodologies and practices. In this vein, the symposium explored topics such as changing perceptions about the language and building sustainable Arabic programs for schools.
Reinforcing the Family
And QF’s Doha International Family Institute marked the International Day of Families with an Education City event emphasizing the socio-cultural value of the family in Qatari society.
The talk also saw Her Excellency Dr. Hind Bint Abdul Rahman Al Muftah, Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar to the United Nations Office in Geneva, highlight the impact of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ on the world’s view of Qatari culture, saying: “We have been able to showcase ourselves as a role model for the social and cultural integration of many nationalities from different countries of the world.”
Key questions and themes that shape the teaching and learning of Arabic in Europe and the UK were placed in the spotlight by Qatar Foundation International (QFI) in April, at a Brussels symposium that enabled educators, policymakers, and academics to share their perspectives.
QFI has, for 14 years, encouraged the teaching of Arabic as a global language offered in classrooms beyond the Arab world, by supporting the professionalization of Arabic teaching, and research-driven methodologies and practices. In this vein, the symposium explored topics such as changing perceptions about the language and building sustainable Arabic programs for schools.
We need to aim high – Arabic teachers should receive no less support than teachers of any other foreign language.
A Message Through Art
Highlighting, in the words of its creator, “the strength of the nation and how it has overcome challenges”, the latest addition to the public art landscape at QF’s Education City was unveiled.
‘Al Azzm’ comprises three granite sculptures depicting Qatari women wearing abayas and battoulahs – the region’s traditional clothing. Located close to the 2015 building (QF Headquarters), it was designed by His Excellency Sheikh Hassan Bin Mohammed Bin Ali Al Thani, Advisor of Cultural Affairs at QF, with the three women signifying the three pillars of QF: education, science, and community development.
“The work showcases the women walking into the wind, which is illustrated by the angle of the sculptures as they lean into the wind and the rippling of the abayas,” explains His Excellency Sheikh Hassan, who designed the piece to commemorate QF’s 25th anniversary.
“This aims to showcase a woman’s strength, confronting challenges faced in life, while the smooth granite was chosen to show the silk cloak, which embodies the strength and solidarity of the women.”
Highlighting, in the words of its creator, “the strength of the nation and how it has overcome challenges”, the latest addition to the public art landscape at QF’s Education City was unveiled.
‘Al Azzm’ comprises three granite sculptures depicting Qatari women wearing abayas and battoulahs – the region’s traditional clothing. Located close to the 2015 building (QF Headquarters), it was designed by His Excellency Sheikh Hassan Bin Mohammed Bin Ali Al Thani, Advisor of Cultural Affairs at QF, with the three women signifying the three pillars of QF: education, science, and community development.
“The work showcases the women walking into the wind, which is illustrated by the angle of the sculptures as they lean into the wind and the rippling of the abayas,” explains His Excellency Sheikh Hassan, who designed the piece to commemorate QF’s 25th anniversary.
“This aims to showcase a woman’s strength, confronting challenges faced in life, while the smooth granite was chosen to show the silk cloak, which embodies the strength and solidarity of the women.”
Art is the jewel in the crown of civilization – it reflects the renaissance of nations and the advancement of societies.
A Milestone Reached
“Work hard, continue to achieve, and never stop learning.”
Those were the words of Her Excellency Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, Vice Chairperson and CEO of Qatar Foundation, to the latest wave of graduates of Qatar Foundation (QF) schools as, for the first time, they marked the end of one step of their journey and learning and the start of the next on a single stage.
The first Qatar Foundation Schools Commencement Ceremony celebrated the achievements of the graduates of seven schools under the organization’s Pre-University Education, with Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, attending this landmark moment in the lives of hundreds of young people.
“This unified ceremony signifies an important milestone in our journey,” said Abeer Al Khalifa, President of Pre-University Education, QF, who told the graduating students: “We are proud that you are part of an ecosystem shaping the bright future of our nation through education – you have the power to make a difference, motivate others, and be catalysts for change.”
“Work hard, continue to achieve, and never stop learning.”
Those were the words of Her Excellency Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, Vice Chairperson and CEO of Qatar Foundation, to the latest wave of graduates of Qatar Foundation (QF) schools as, for the first time, they marked the end of one step of their journey and learning and the start of the next on a single stage.
The first Qatar Foundation Schools Commencement Ceremony celebrated the achievements of the graduates of seven schools under the organization’s Pre-University Education, with Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, attending this landmark moment in the lives of hundreds of young people.
“This unified ceremony signifies an important milestone in our journey,” said Abeer Al Khalifa, President of Pre-University Education, QF, who told the graduating students: “We are proud that you are part of an ecosystem shaping the bright future of our nation through education – you have the power to make a difference, motivate others, and be catalysts for change.”
I urge you to face the challenges that await you along your coming journey with determination and resolve, and to remember that failure is not an end point, but rather a starting point on the path to success.
Reflections on a Journey
The ceremony was a point of reflection on years of learning, discovery, growth, and friendship – within and beyond the classroom – for graduates like Saoud Al Marafi, who said: “Now, when I wake up in the morning, I feel like there is something missing from my life – despite my joy of graduating from school, I will miss what I had at QAD.”
And Mayan Al Ibrahim, an Awsaj Academy student who has cerebral palsy, said the school “has had a tremendous impact on me, as my intelligence, skills, and determination have made me a catalyst for change and improvement, and my presence reinforced the belief that people with disabilities have great capabilities, if given the opportunity and support.”
What made the commencement ceremony extra-special is that – from registration and stage management to guest arrivals and backstage logistics – it was entirely organized by student volunteers from QF schools.
Among them was Qatar Academy Doha (QAD) student Al Reem Alnaimi, who said: “The majority of this year’s graduates are lifelong friends – some I even consider to be family. It was important to me to contribute to such a momentous event within QF, where I have spent a huge part of my academic life.”
The ceremony was a point of reflection on years of learning, discovery, growth, and friendship – within and beyond the classroom – for graduates like Saoud Al Marafi, who said: “Now, when I wake up in the morning, I feel like there is something missing from my life – despite my joy of graduating from school, I will miss what I had at QAD.”
And Mayan Al Ibrahim, an Awsaj Academy student who has cerebral palsy, said the school “has had a tremendous impact on me, as my intelligence, skills, and determination have made me a catalyst for change and improvement, and my presence reinforced the belief that people with disabilities have great capabilities, if given the opportunity and support.”
What made the commencement ceremony extra-special is that – from registration and stage management to guest arrivals and backstage logistics – it was entirely organized by student volunteers from QF schools.
Among them was Qatar Academy Doha (QAD) student Al Reem Alnaimi, who said: “The majority of this year’s graduates are lifelong friends – some I even consider to be family. It was important to me to contribute to such a momentous event within QF, where I have spent a huge part of my academic life.”
My experience at Qatar Academy Al Khor has been nothing short of transformative – engaging in extracurricular activities outside the classroom has provided me with a unique and fulfilling experience.
- 249 graduates from seven schools, representing 18 nationalities – including 202 Qataris – were honored at the Qatar Foundation Schools Commencement Ceremony
- 6,730 students have now graduated from QF schools
In Tune for Education
New opportunities for talented young musicians in Qatar will be opened up through a collaboration between QF and one of the best music schools in the world.
The agreement between QF and the Reina Sofía School of Music in Spain will include masterclasses and student exchanges, with pathways for graduates of Qatar Music Academy (QMA) – part of QF’s Pre-University Education – to join the school’s higher education programs being explored, together with the use of its learning technology in QF schools.
“Music has the capacity to open windows to the world, and enhance pathways to knowledge – broadening our perspectives, and building bridges between cultures,” said Her Excellency Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, Vice Chairperson and CEO of Qatar Foundation.
“Spain and the Arab world have a shared history, and this agreement reflects our intertwined past and the ties that endure to this day. Together, we aim to strengthen cross-cultural ties, and enrich lives, through the power of music and partnership.”
QF will also support the school’s expansion and be granted naming rights for its Madrid building, while, with QMA, a Chair of Arabic and Eastern Music will be established at the school.
New opportunities for talented young musicians in Qatar will be opened up through a collaboration between QF and one of the best music schools in the world.
The agreement between QF and the Reina Sofía School of Music in Spain will include masterclasses and student exchanges, with pathways for graduates of Qatar Music Academy (QMA) – part of QF’s Pre-University Education – to join the school’s higher education programs being explored, together with the use of its learning technology in QF schools.
“Music has the capacity to open windows to the world, and enhance pathways to knowledge – broadening our perspectives, and building bridges between cultures,” said Her Excellency Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, Vice Chairperson and CEO of Qatar Foundation.
“Spain and the Arab world have a shared history, and this agreement reflects our intertwined past and the ties that endure to this day. Together, we aim to strengthen cross-cultural ties, and enrich lives, through the power of music and partnership.”
QF will also support the school’s expansion and be granted naming rights for its Madrid building, while, with QMA, a Chair of Arabic and Eastern Music will be established at the school.
We are truly looking forward to collaborating with Qatar Foundation on academic and artistic projects that will help grow and expand the reach of our school.
Cultivating Citizenship
Demonstrating its dedication to instilling moral principles and nurturing a sense of national identity, cultural heritage, and shared values among its learners, June saw QF launch a partnership to integrate values into school curricula, through citizenship education.
Nibras is a new initiative by QF’s Education Development Institute and Wijdan Cultural Center that, across three years, aims to cultivate engaged and responsible citizens through a series of knowledge-sharing workshops, seminars, and programs.
More Than a Game
And QF’s Qatar Genome Programme (QGP) teamed up with students from QF schools to create ‘Genome Heroes’ – a game-playing journey into the world of genomics and DNA. Featuring characters Dana and Khalid, the Arabic and English edutainment app allows young players to learn about genome science in a fun and interactive way.
“With over 400 million Arabic speakers across the world, and 25 countries where Arabic is the official language, it is a chance for all of them to understand the basics of genomics in their own language,” said QGP’s Genome Education Head, Dima Darwish.
Demonstrating its dedication to instilling moral principles and nurturing a sense of national identity, cultural heritage, and shared values among its learners, June saw QF launch a partnership to integrate values into school curricula, through citizenship education.
Nibras is a new initiative by QF’s Education Development Institute and Wijdan Cultural Center that, across three years, aims to cultivate engaged and responsible citizens through a series of knowledge-sharing workshops, seminars, and programs.
The launch of the Nibras program in schools serves as a resilient foundation for cultivating a collective social consciousness that will resonate through generations.
Reading’s Young Leaders
When a group of young socially conscious storytellers from QF schools met His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Amir of Qatar, at Doha International Book Fair, their conversation with the nation’s leader turned them into social media stars.
The students from Tariq Bin Ziad School and Qatar Academy Al Khor were filmed telling His Highness the Amir about how they use their own passion for books to inspire others, which captured the attention of an audience in Qatar.
Among them was eight-year-old Maryam Hamad Al-Qahtani, whose ‘Donate and Read’ initiative creates opportunities for book exchanges that she hopes can enrich people’s lives. “I want to share information and books with other people, and help children in particular to have a love of reading,” she said.
“I want reading to be fun and to help the planet too. I think everyone in the community should read and exchange books that they have read and no longer need.”
When a group of young socially conscious storytellers from QF schools met His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Amir of Qatar, at Doha International Book Fair, their conversation with the nation’s leader turned them into social media stars.
The students from Tariq Bin Ziad School and Qatar Academy Al Khor were filmed telling His Highness the Amir about how they use their own passion for books to inspire others, which captured the attention of an audience in Qatar.
Among them was eight-year-old Maryam Hamad Al-Qahtani, whose ‘Donate and Read’ initiative creates opportunities for book exchanges that she hopes can enrich people’s lives. “I want to share information and books with other people, and help children in particular to have a love of reading,” she said.
“I want reading to be fun and to help the planet too. I think everyone in the community should read and exchange books that they have read and no longer need.”
It’s amazing to think His Highness the Amir liked what I wrote, and now I am inspired to continue writing and sharing stories with others.
The Peak of Learning
And the summer also saw students from four QF schools hit the heights of discovery on a mountaineering trip to Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania – a journey where they developed life skills that will help shape their futures.
Led by Abdirahman Handule, Lead Teacher and Head of Student Affairs at Qatar Academy Al Wakra, the ‘Kili Challenge’ expedition was preceded with a four-month training program to equip the students to climb Kilimanjaro. One of the member of the trip, 14-year-old Yousef Al Kuwari, is now the youngest Qatari to scale Africa’s highest peak.
“The experience of my Kilimanjaro expedition has stirred an interest in me to explore the world some more,” said Qatar Academy Sidra student Shahad Al-Fadala. “It taught me to appreciate other cultures, and widen my perspectives and intellectual growth.
“We all emerged as entirely different individuals, enriched by the experience and embracing life with understanding its depth and meaning.”
And the summer also saw students from four QF schools hit the heights of discovery on a mountaineering trip to Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania – a journey where they developed life skills that will help shape their futures.
Led by Abdirahman Handule, Lead Teacher and Head of Student Affairs at Qatar Academy Al Wakra, the ‘Kili Challenge’ expedition was preceded with a four-month training program to equip the students to climb Kilimanjaro. One of the member of the trip, 14-year-old Yousef Al Kuwari, is now the youngest Qatari to scale Africa’s highest peak.
“The experience of my Kilimanjaro expedition has stirred an interest in me to explore the world some more,” said Qatar Academy Sidra student Shahad Al-Fadala. “It taught me to appreciate other cultures, and widen my perspectives and intellectual growth.
“We all emerged as entirely different individuals, enriched by the experience and embracing life with understanding its depth and meaning.”
I learned that, with proper training and support, I could achieve something as daunting as climbing a mountain, and this has inspired me to tackle more challenging feats.
A World of Discovery
The first major Qatar-based exhibition exploring the concept of the metaverse – virtual spaces where users interact in the form of avatars – opened at Education City in August, with QF partner university Northwestern University in Qatar’s Media Majlis staging ‘Metawhat?’
Exploring the metaverse from a Global South perspective, it included one of British installation artist Luke Jerram’s most famous touring artworks, ‘Gaia’, a revolving inflatable replica of Earth.
And a faculty member from QF partner university Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar (VCUarts Qatar), Jorg Matthias Determann, was part of a global team that looked beyond Earth to send a simulated extraterrestrial message – a project to which he contributed findings from his research on Islamic theology and extraterrestrial life.
Meanwhile, ethnographic research by students at QF partner university Georgetown University in Qatar (GU-Q) provided the first insights into the impact of Hamad International Airport on Qatar’s cultural, social, economic, and urban development; while Qatar National Library, based at QF’s Education City, was named the region’s first office for the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions.
The first major Qatar-based exhibition exploring the concept of the metaverse – virtual spaces where users interact in the form of avatars – opened at Education City in August, with QF partner university Northwestern University in Qatar’s Media Majlis staging ‘Metawhat?’
Exploring the metaverse from a Global South perspective, it included one of British installation artist Luke Jerram’s most famous touring artworks, ‘Gaia’, a revolving inflatable replica of Earth.
And a faculty member from QF partner university Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar (VCUarts Qatar), Jorg Matthias Determann, was part of a global team that looked beyond Earth to send a simulated extraterrestrial message – a project to which he contributed findings from his research on Islamic theology and extraterrestrial life.
Meanwhile, ethnographic research by students at QF partner university Georgetown University in Qatar (GU-Q) provided the first insights into the impact of Hamad International Airport on Qatar’s cultural, social, economic, and urban development; while Qatar National Library, based at QF’s Education City, was named the region’s first office for the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions.
No one truly understands what the metaverse is or its potential, but everyone is fascinated by this new technology and what it might mean for our future.
A Summer of Knowledge
Across the summer months, learning never stopped at QF – including at HBKU’s Qatar Computing Research Institute’s Creative Space summer camp for primary and middle school students, and QBRI’s Summer Research Program for aspiring scientific leaders.
GU-Q equipped high school students in Qatar with the skills for success at university, while CMU-Q launched summer camps in computer science for middle and high school students, and QF-founded Qatar Debate’s Summer Debate Camp nurtured critical thinking skills among students aged from 10-13.
QF partner universities WCM-Q and Texas A&M University at Qatar (TAMUQ) teamed up for the Physics for Future Doctors Summer Program, providing high school students with an opportunity to hone their physics problem-solving skills, using medical examples.
TAMUQ also introduced Grade 6-12 students in Qatar to engineering concepts through its STEM summer programs, and welcomed engineering students from Texas to Doha for an experiential education experience; while WCM-Q offered students from local and overseas high schools the chance to explore what a career in medicine means and sample life as a medical student and doctor.
Across the summer months, learning never stopped at QF – including at HBKU’s Qatar Computing Research Institute’s Creative Space summer camp for primary and middle school students, and QBRI’s Summer Research Program for aspiring scientific leaders.
GU-Q equipped high school students in Qatar with the skills for success at university, while CMU-Q launched summer camps in computer science for middle and high school students, and QF-founded Qatar Debate’s Summer Debate Camp nurtured critical thinking skills among students aged from 10-13.
QF partner universities WCM-Q and Texas A&M University at Qatar (TAMUQ) teamed up for the Physics for Future Doctors Summer Program, providing high school students with an opportunity to hone their physics problem-solving skills, using medical examples.
TAMUQ also introduced Grade 6-12 students in Qatar to engineering concepts through its STEM summer programs, and welcomed engineering students from Texas to Doha for an experiential education experience; while WCM-Q offered students from local and overseas high schools the chance to explore what a career in medicine means and sample life as a medical student and doctor.
We encouraged fearless experimentation, free exploration, and collaboration, making learning the ultimate reward.
- 19 students from 15 schools participated in the Physics for Future Doctors Summer Program
- More than 100 students joined TAMUQ’s STEM summer programs
- 89 students from 45 local and overseas schools participated in WCM-Q’s Qatar Medical Explorer Program and Pre-College Enrichment Program
- 34 students participated in GU-Q’s Pre-College Summer Program
- 15 undergraduate students successfully completed QBRI’s Summer Research Program
Welcome to QF
And these summer learning pathways led up to the start of a new academic year at QF – with new and returning students embarking on the next stage of their unique educational experience within an ecosystem of knowledge that is like no other.
Through Marhaba – a gateway event organized by QF’s Student Life team - the eyes of Education City’s newest students were opened to the opportunities that await them, as they also learned about what it means to be a QF student, and part of the QF community.
Marhaba saw current QF students and QF alumni share their own experiences at Education City – including cross-registering for courses at different universities – while offering advice to their newest peers, with sessions seeing students share their opinions and ideas on issues such as climate change, lifelong learning, health and wellbeing, and sustainable development and equality.
“Students admitted to one of the universities at Education City are part of the larger Education City community of diverse opportunities,” Michael Trick, Dean of CMU-Q, told the Marhaba audience. “Being part of this environment allows students to take classes at other institutions, engage in sports, join clubs that span multiple programs, and much more.”
And these summer learning pathways led up to the start of a new academic year at QF – with new and returning students embarking on the next stage of their unique educational experience within an ecosystem of knowledge that is like no other.
Through Marhaba – a gateway event organized by QF’s Student Life team - the eyes of Education City’s newest students were opened to the opportunities that await them, as they also learned about what it means to be a QF student, and part of the QF community.
Marhaba saw current QF students and QF alumni share their own experiences at Education City – including cross-registering for courses at different universities – while offering advice to their newest peers, with sessions seeing students share their opinions and ideas on issues such as climate change, lifelong learning, health and wellbeing, and sustainable development and equality.
“Students admitted to one of the universities at Education City are part of the larger Education City community of diverse opportunities,” Michael Trick, Dean of CMU-Q, told the Marhaba audience. “Being part of this environment allows students to take classes at other institutions, engage in sports, join clubs that span multiple programs, and much more.”
It allows you to see things in different ways, to take different approaches, and to feel a real spirit of collaboration – it’s wonderful to experience the diversity of the way we all see things.
Taking the First Step
Across Education City, ceremonies and activities gave new QF students the warmest of welcomes to HBKU and QF’s partner universities.
115 first-year CMU-Q students were ushered into the university’s community at its Convocation ceremony, with GU-Q’s first-ever Hoya Welcome Week being followed by its New Student Convocation for its 123 incoming students.
The 116 members of Northwestern University in Qatar’s Class of 2027 marched through the Weber Arch, a tradition marking the start of their journey at the university; while Aggie Life 101, a three-day orientation program, taught TAMUQ students about how the traditions of Texas A&M University are embedded in its Doha campus.
At VCUarts Qatar, 101 new students from 19 countries enjoyed orientation activities, and the 44 new trainee physicians at WCM-Q – half of whom are Qataris - donned the white coats of their future profession for the first time.
And HBKU’s orientation activities welcomed new students such as Sadia Shameem, who outlined her goals for studying at its College of Islamic Studies: “I’m hopeful that my education at HBKU will expose me to an intellectually stimulating culture so I may continue my higher education as a Muslim researcher, which is the need of the hour across the Muslim world.”
Across Education City, ceremonies and activities gave new QF students the warmest of welcomes to HBKU and QF’s partner universities.
115 first-year CMU-Q students were ushered into the university’s community at its Convocation ceremony, with GU-Q’s first-ever Hoya Welcome Week being followed by its New Student Convocation for its 123 incoming students.
The 116 members of Northwestern University in Qatar’s Class of 2027 marched through the Weber Arch, a tradition marking the start of their journey at the university; while Aggie Life 101, a three-day orientation program, taught TAMUQ students about how the traditions of Texas A&M University are embedded in its Doha campus.
At VCUarts Qatar, 101 new students from 19 countries enjoyed orientation activities, and the 44 new trainee physicians at WCM-Q – half of whom are Qataris - donned the white coats of their future profession for the first time.
And HBKU’s orientation activities welcomed new students such as Sadia Shameem, who outlined her goals for studying at its College of Islamic Studies: “I’m hopeful that my education at HBKU will expose me to an intellectually stimulating culture so I may continue my higher education as a Muslim researcher, which is the need of the hour across the Muslim world.”
Seize every opportunity you get. Don’t be afraid of failure or rejection. And if you don’t find the opportunity you want, create one.
- CMU-Q’s 2023-24 student body reached a record 472 students of 61 nationalities – with 40% being Qatari
- 1,300 students applied to be part of Northwestern Qatar’s Class of 2027 – a campus record
- TAMUQ’s 162 new students – including 86 Qataris – took its student enrolment to 844, the highest in its history
Empowering Teachers
As QF’s schools welcomed back their students and teachers following the summer break, the organization’s President of Pre-University Education looked ahead to the academic year by highlighting how QF supports the development of Qatari teachers, and helps them overcome challenges.
“Qatari teachers possess a unique perspective on the education system and its goals, enabling them to effectively implement national educational curricula and policies in line with Qatar’s vision for education,” said Abeer Al-Khalifa.
“The presence of Qatari educators is crucial to providing a culturally enriching and contextually relevant educational experience. Therefore, QF continuously endeavors to strengthen their role and status, recognizing their significant contribution to shaping the future of education in Qatar.
“This commitment is reflected in designing impactful professional development programs to enhance their qualifications and create an appealing teaching profession with a supportive work environment.”
Al-Khalifa also explained how QF identifies and analyzes each teacher’s needs to provide them with a personalized development plan and customized training; and helps both them and their students to familiarize themselves with technological advances such as AI.
As QF’s schools welcomed back their students and teachers following the summer break, the organization’s President of Pre-University Education looked ahead to the academic year by highlighting how QF supports the development of Qatari teachers, and helps them overcome challenges.
“Qatari teachers possess a unique perspective on the education system and its goals, enabling them to effectively implement national educational curricula and policies in line with Qatar’s vision for education,” said Abeer Al-Khalifa.
“The presence of Qatari educators is crucial to providing a culturally enriching and contextually relevant educational experience. Therefore, QF continuously endeavors to strengthen their role and status, recognizing their significant contribution to shaping the future of education in Qatar.
“This commitment is reflected in designing impactful professional development programs to enhance their qualifications and create an appealing teaching profession with a supportive work environment.”
Al-Khalifa also explained how QF identifies and analyzes each teacher’s needs to provide them with a personalized development plan and customized training; and helps both them and their students to familiarize themselves with technological advances such as AI.
QF is strongly committed to empowering and supporting Qatari teachers to excel in their profession. In line with this commitment, we offer numerous opportunities exclusively tailored for Qatari teachers.
An Enduring Bond
US-based alumni of QF’s education ecosystem had the opportunity in September to share their stories, ideas, and challenges – with Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation.
In a New York meeting, the graduates from universities at Education City aired their views on how QF can amplify the support it provides to its current and former students, and emerging trends and opportunities in the fields they now work and study in that can potentially benefit both QF and Qatar.
“Working in fields from research and science to international diplomacy, these young people, now based in the US, are excellent ambassadors for Education City,” said Her Highness Sheikha Moza.
“It was inspiring to hear them speak of their achievements – dreams turned into reality through education and perseverance.”
The alumni included Georgetown University in Qatar alumnus Nayef Saeed Mohammed Al-Nabet, now working at the United Nations in New York, who said: “This gathering boosted our morale and reminded us of the importance of persevering as we pursue our goals, in large part thanks to the encouragement and support of Her Highness.”
US-based alumni of QF’s education ecosystem had the opportunity in September to share their stories, ideas, and challenges – with Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation.
In a New York meeting, the graduates from universities at Education City aired their views on how QF can amplify the support it provides to its current and former students, and emerging trends and opportunities in the fields they now work and study in that can potentially benefit both QF and Qatar.
“Working in fields from research and science to international diplomacy, these young people, now based in the US, are excellent ambassadors for Education City,” said Her Highness Sheikha Moza.
“It was inspiring to hear them speak of their achievements – dreams turned into reality through education and perseverance.”
The alumni included Georgetown University in Qatar alumnus Nayef Saeed Mohammed Al-Nabet, now working at the United Nations in New York, who said: “This gathering boosted our morale and reminded us of the importance of persevering as we pursue our goals, in large part thanks to the encouragement and support of Her Highness.”
There was a lot of dialogue surrounding cross-cultural collaboration and how we can give back to our community in Qatar, which has given us so much over the years.
25 Years of Impact
A quarter-century of nurturing excellence in art and design was celebrated by a QF’s first international partner university in September – as Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar (VCUarts Qatar) marked its 25th anniversary.
The milestone was commemorated with a special exhibition at Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art, based at Education City, where works created by 39 artists and designers who studied at VCUarts Qatar were showcased; and with a gala event at Qatar National Convention Centre.
Describing VCUarts Qatar’s journey as having “unfolded with grace, nurturing talent and creativity”, Her Excellency Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, Vice Chairperson and CEO of Qatar Foundation, said: “Through its dedication, the VCUarts Qatar community has consistently carved an enduring legacy into the world’s artistic landscape.”
And Francisco Marmolejo, President of Higher Education, QF, highlighted how VCUarts Qatar was a “pioneer” for QF’s partnership model with international universities, saying: “From its very first day, VCUarts Qatar proved this model would succeed. Every one of our international partner universities has proved the same since their establishment, with each making an indelible and invaluable impact to the nation and the region.”
A quarter-century of nurturing excellence in art and design was celebrated by a QF’s first international partner university in September – as Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar (VCUarts Qatar) marked its 25th anniversary.
The milestone was commemorated with a special exhibition at Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art, based at Education City, where works created by 39 artists and designers who studied at VCUarts Qatar were showcased; and with a gala event at Qatar National Convention Centre.
Describing VCUarts Qatar’s journey as having “unfolded with grace, nurturing talent and creativity”, Her Excellency Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, Vice Chairperson and CEO of Qatar Foundation, said: “Through its dedication, the VCUarts Qatar community has consistently carved an enduring legacy into the world’s artistic landscape.”
And Francisco Marmolejo, President of Higher Education, QF, highlighted how VCUarts Qatar was a “pioneer” for QF’s partnership model with international universities, saying: “From its very first day, VCUarts Qatar proved this model would succeed. Every one of our international partner universities has proved the same since their establishment, with each making an indelible and invaluable impact to the nation and the region.”
VCU is honored that it was the first university to join Education City as a partner with Qatar Foundation. We’re proud that we could help create a partnership model that has lasted a quarter of a century.
Supported All The Way
And in September, QF demonstrated to new and returning students how the ecosystem of education that VCUarts Qatar and QF’s six other international partner universities are part of supports them every step of the way along their learning journey.
The Tawasol 2023 fair, organized by QF’s Student Life team, illustrated the vast array of resources available to students at Education City, including healthcare, sports and recreation, housing services, student employment opportunities, and other aspects of life within the QF community – as well as providing another opportunity for students to make new connections and friendships.
Meanwhile, one member of QF’s student community was shining on the international sporting stage in September – at the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, China.
Abdulla Babikr, a chemical engineering student at QF partner university Texas A&M University at Qatar, represented Qatar in the karate competitions, and said: “As a student-athlete, I want to follow my dreams in the sporting arena as well as by becoming a successful chemical engineer, and Texas A&M University at Qatar affords me opportunities to do both.”
And in September, QF demonstrated to new and returning students how the ecosystem of education that VCUarts Qatar and QF’s six other international partner universities are part of supports them every step of the way along their learning journey.
The Tawasol 2023 fair, organized by QF’s Student Life team, illustrated the vast array of resources available to students at Education City, including healthcare, sports and recreation, housing services, student employment opportunities, and other aspects of life within the QF community – as well as providing another opportunity for students to make new connections and friendships.
Meanwhile, one member of QF’s student community was shining on the international sporting stage in September – at the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, China.
Abdulla Babikr, a chemical engineering student at QF partner university Texas A&M University at Qatar, represented Qatar in the karate competitions, and said: “As a student-athlete, I want to follow my dreams in the sporting arena as well as by becoming a successful chemical engineer, and Texas A&M University at Qatar affords me opportunities to do both.”
- More than 4,000 students – half of whom are Qatari – are enrolled in universities at QF in the 2023-24 academic year, including 1,100 first-year students
- Since 2019-20, enrolment in universities at QF has increased by over 20 percent
Global Perspectives
Scholars, experts, and policymakers were brought together in Doha by QF partner university Georgetown University in Qatar (GU-Q) in September, as its new Hiwaraat Conference Series began by exploring the past, present, and future of Iraq 20 years after the war that changed the face of the country.
‘The Invasion of Iraq: Regional Reflections’ conference was headlined by former Iraqi president His Excellency Barham Salih, with politicians from the country and thought leaders on US-Iraq relations sharing their insights. Hiwaraat has been launched by GU-Q to discuss solutions to global challenges and geopolitical events.
The series also tackled the many dimensions of prejudice against Muslims and Islam at its second international conference, titled ‘Global Histories and Practices of Islamophobia’, with panelists suggesting ways of countering anti-Islamic sentiment around the world.
And during the month, GU-Q Dean Dr. Safwan Masri inaugurated the university’s Innovation Lab, a dedicated space for students to unlock their creativity, enhance their digital and media skills, and produce content for academic coursework or personal development.
Scholars, experts, and policymakers were brought together in Doha by QF partner university Georgetown University in Qatar (GU-Q) in September, as its new Hiwaraat Conference Series began by exploring the past, present, and future of Iraq 20 years after the war that changed the face of the country.
‘The Invasion of Iraq: Regional Reflections’ conference was headlined by former Iraqi president His Excellency Barham Salih, with politicians from the country and thought leaders on US-Iraq relations sharing their insights. Hiwaraat has been launched by GU-Q to discuss solutions to global challenges and geopolitical events.
The series also tackled the many dimensions of prejudice against Muslims and Islam at its second international conference, titled ‘Global Histories and Practices of Islamophobia’, with panelists suggesting ways of countering anti-Islamic sentiment around the world.
And during the month, GU-Q Dean Dr. Safwan Masri inaugurated the university’s Innovation Lab, a dedicated space for students to unlock their creativity, enhance their digital and media skills, and produce content for academic coursework or personal development.
Our goal is to transcend the boundaries of scholarly discourse, and to ensure that the lived experiences and personal narratives of Iraqis are an integral part of the conversation.
Skills, Support, and Success
A research project aimed at helping people in Qatar and across the region improve their digital citizenship skills – from literacy, safety and security, and digital wellbeing to gender equality and social inclusion - was kickstarted in September.
It is led by a team from QF partner university Northwestern Qatar, whose Media Majlis premiered a virtual reality film experience on Palestine at the 80th Venice Film Festival – while the National Museum of Qatar hosted the premiere of a film by a faculty member at fellow QF partner university Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar, spotlighting the role of bamboo in sustainable architecture.
Elsewhere across Education City, two Texas A&M University at Qatar graduate students were the first recipients of a new fellowship launched by the university and ExxonMobil Qatar, where they will research climate solutions in the LNG industry; and Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar’s Institute for Population Health gave health professionals insight into using lifestyle medicine in care delivery.
And QF’s Doha International Family Institute was at the heart of conversations about challenges facing families at the Budapest Demographic Summit in Hungary – highlighting the importance of policies that support work-family balance, and parenting education.
A research project aimed at helping people in Qatar and across the region improve their digital citizenship skills – from literacy, safety and security, and digital wellbeing to gender equality and social inclusion - was kickstarted in September.
It is led by a team from QF partner university Northwestern Qatar, whose Media Majlis premiered a virtual reality film experience on Palestine at the 80th Venice Film Festival – while the National Museum of Qatar hosted the premiere of a film by a faculty member at fellow QF partner university Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar, spotlighting the role of bamboo in sustainable architecture.
Elsewhere across Education City, two Texas A&M University at Qatar graduate students were the first recipients of a new fellowship launched by the university and ExxonMobil Qatar, where they will research climate solutions in the LNG industry; and Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar’s Institute for Population Health gave health professionals insight into using lifestyle medicine in care delivery.
And QF’s Doha International Family Institute was at the heart of conversations about challenges facing families at the Budapest Demographic Summit in Hungary – highlighting the importance of policies that support work-family balance, and parenting education.
The wave towards individualism must be countered by re-giving priority to the family.
Transforming Learning
They range from digitizing curricula and supporting numeracy and language learning, to transforming early childhood development and education, to creating ‘living classrooms’ in urban communities – but they all have one thing in common.
They are the six innovative projects addressing worldwide educational challenges that, in September, were recognized by QF’s global education thinktank WISE for the positive contribution they make to learning, and to stronger societies.
The 2023 WISE Awards winners came from countries as diverse as Jordan, Moldova, Kenya, the US, Colombia, and India, with each receiving a $20,000 prize as well as the increased international visibility and networking opportunities that come with the recognition from an initiative known around the world for its impact in rethinking education.
"In a world where education is the cornerstone of progress, the WISE Awards not only celebrate innovation but also the spirit of unity, resilience, and determination,” said Stavros N. Yiannouka, CEO of WISE.
“As we navigate the complexities of our global landscape, these initiatives light the way, proving that with innovation and dedication, we can shape a brighter, more equitable future for all.”
They range from digitizing curricula and supporting numeracy and language learning, to transforming early childhood development and education, to creating ‘living classrooms’ in urban communities – but they all have one thing in common.
They are the six innovative projects addressing worldwide educational challenges that, in September, were recognized by QF’s global education thinktank WISE for the positive contribution they make to learning, and to stronger societies.
The 2023 WISE Awards winners came from countries as diverse as Jordan, Moldova, Kenya, the US, Colombia, and India, with each receiving a $20,000 prize as well as the increased international visibility and networking opportunities that come with the recognition from an initiative known around the world for its impact in rethinking education.
"In a world where education is the cornerstone of progress, the WISE Awards not only celebrate innovation but also the spirit of unity, resilience, and determination,” said Stavros N. Yiannouka, CEO of WISE.
“As we navigate the complexities of our global landscape, these initiatives light the way, proving that with innovation and dedication, we can shape a brighter, more equitable future for all.”
Faith in Focus
With its goal being to strengthen and safeguard faith among young Muslims, the College of Islamic Studies (CIS) at QF’s Hamad Bin Khalifa University launched its Al-Imān Amānah initiative in October.
The platform is designed to protect Muslim children’s faith amid contemporary challenges, such as the ideology of post-truth, and falls under the college’s Maker Majlis – a program that offers young people opportunities to merge innovative projects with Islamic values.
CIS also hosted the 6th International Conference on Islamic Finance, focusing on how emerging technologies can contribute to more sustainable economies; while HBKU’s College of Science and Engineering joined with the U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine to co-host the ninth Arab-American Frontiers Symposium, where experts discussed advances and potential US-MENA collaborations in science, engineering, and medicine.
And Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art, which is based at QF’s Education City, unveiled four exhibitions that showcased the extent of contemporary art across the Arab world – from the work of a renowned Iraqi artist to an experimental project blending ancient craftsmanship with modern technology.
With its goal being to strengthen and safeguard faith among young Muslims, the College of Islamic Studies (CIS) at QF’s Hamad Bin Khalifa University launched its Al-Imān Amānah initiative in October.
The platform is designed to protect Muslim children’s faith amid contemporary challenges, such as the ideology of post-truth, and falls under the college’s Maker Majlis – a program that offers young people opportunities to merge innovative projects with Islamic values.
CIS also hosted the 6th International Conference on Islamic Finance, focusing on how emerging technologies can contribute to more sustainable economies; while HBKU’s College of Science and Engineering joined with the U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine to co-host the ninth Arab-American Frontiers Symposium, where experts discussed advances and potential US-MENA collaborations in science, engineering, and medicine.
And Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art, which is based at QF’s Education City, unveiled four exhibitions that showcased the extent of contemporary art across the Arab world – from the work of a renowned Iraqi artist to an experimental project blending ancient craftsmanship with modern technology.
The Al-Imān Amānah initiative is an ideal platform from which CIS can engage with Muslim youth and ensure civilizational sustainability for generations to come.
A Platform for Ideas
Artificial Intelligence could reshape our world – and in November, over 2,000 influential thought leaders, young innovators, and key decision-makers gathered at Qatar Foundation to explore how it might reshape the world of education.
The 11th edition of the WISE Summit – organized by QF’s global education think tank WISE, and attended by Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation – placed topics such as how to future-proof classrooms in the age of AI, building an inclusive and ethical AI landscape, and AI and digital sovereignty in the international educational spotlight.
Young educational advocates and innovators led discussions on areas including personalized learning for students with disabilities and the cultural perspectives of Arabic learners in classrooms, while workshops with WISE partners provided students and teachers with immersive experiences of using cutting-edge AI tools and systems.
And Her Excellency Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, Vice Chairperson and CEO of Qatar Foundation, awarded the prestigious WISE Prize for Education to Safeena Husain, Founder and Board Member of Educate Girls, which – through a precision targeting method that uses AI – has supported the learning of over 1.9 million girls in India.
Artificial Intelligence could reshape our world – and in November, over 2,000 influential thought leaders, young innovators, and key decision-makers gathered at Qatar Foundation to explore how it might reshape the world of education.
The 11th edition of the WISE Summit – organized by QF’s global education think tank WISE, and attended by Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation – placed topics such as how to future-proof classrooms in the age of AI, building an inclusive and ethical AI landscape, and AI and digital sovereignty in the international educational spotlight.
Young educational advocates and innovators led discussions on areas including personalized learning for students with disabilities and the cultural perspectives of Arabic learners in classrooms, while workshops with WISE partners provided students and teachers with immersive experiences of using cutting-edge AI tools and systems.
And Her Excellency Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, Vice Chairperson and CEO of Qatar Foundation, awarded the prestigious WISE Prize for Education to Safeena Husain, Founder and Board Member of Educate Girls, which – through a precision targeting method that uses AI – has supported the learning of over 1.9 million girls in India.
I want to ensure WISE is a platform for new ideas that keep pace with the changes taking place in the world, and the obstacles that education faces in certain countries for reasons of which we are all too aware.
Ethics, Inclusivity, and Engagement
During the summit, young learners assessed ethical practices for students using AI in their education, in a session led by QF’s Akhlaquna initiative.
Among the speakers was Qatar University student Fatima Naqadan, whose startup focused on AI program development. “We must acknowledge that while AI technology offers numerous benefits, it also poses several ethical challenges,” she said, “so achieving a delicate equilibrium between advancing technological frontiers and maintaining our social and ethical obligations is essential.”
Experts also discussed how AI can be used to augment human intelligence; AI’s role in the lives of persons with disabilities, in a session which saw the participation of blind and visually impaired, hearing impaired, physically impaired and neurodivergent members of society; and the opportunities that AI-driven disruption presents for education.
And, as Husa Alangari, Assistant Professor of Instructional Design and Technology at Saudi Arabia’s Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, said: “If we really want to be able to have students and our future leaders implement and use AI effectively, we need to get them ready, engage and involve them in the process, and make sure that we have a holistic view of how learning is occurring, how they are developing their skills.”
During the summit, young learners assessed ethical practices for students using AI in their education, in a session led by QF’s Akhlaquna initiative.
Among the speakers was Qatar University student Fatima Naqadan, whose startup focused on AI program development. “We must acknowledge that while AI technology offers numerous benefits, it also poses several ethical challenges,” she said, “so achieving a delicate equilibrium between advancing technological frontiers and maintaining our social and ethical obligations is essential.”
Experts also discussed how AI can be used to augment human intelligence; AI’s role in the lives of persons with disabilities, in a session which saw the participation of blind and visually impaired, hearing impaired, physically impaired and neurodivergent members of society; and the opportunities that AI-driven disruption presents for education.
And, as Husa Alangari, Assistant Professor of Instructional Design and Technology at Saudi Arabia’s Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, said: “If we really want to be able to have students and our future leaders implement and use AI effectively, we need to get them ready, engage and involve them in the process, and make sure that we have a holistic view of how learning is occurring, how they are developing their skills.”
In educational AI applications, we must ensure fairness and equity for all students, maintain transparency in how AI operates, and protect student privacy and data.
Preparing to be Leaders
Through an agreement signed at the WISE Summit, students in Lebanon who have overcome challenges and barriers to excel in their studies will advance their learning journey within QF’s globally unique education ecosystem.
The partnership between QF, Education Above All Foundation (EAA), and the American University of Beirut (AUB), will initially see six AUB students who receive scholarships through EAA’s Qatar Scholarship Programme – which has provided 9,000 scholarships to students in nine countries –spend the 2024 spring term at two of QF’s international partner universities.
It will also pave the way for more cohorts of AUB students to study at Education City, with Francisco Marmolejo, President of Higher Education, QF, saying: “This partnership is not just about providing students with the opportunity to acquire knowledge from top universities at Qatar Foundation.
“It’s about developing a global mindset with a sense of community engagement, encouraging inter-institutional collaboration, fostering long-lasting partnerships, and, more importantly, preparing our students to be leaders in an interconnected world.”
Through an agreement signed at the WISE Summit, students in Lebanon who have overcome challenges and barriers to excel in their studies will advance their learning journey within QF’s globally unique education ecosystem.
The partnership between QF, Education Above All Foundation (EAA), and the American University of Beirut (AUB), will initially see six AUB students who receive scholarships through EAA’s Qatar Scholarship Programme – which has provided 9,000 scholarships to students in nine countries –spend the 2024 spring term at two of QF’s international partner universities.
It will also pave the way for more cohorts of AUB students to study at Education City, with Francisco Marmolejo, President of Higher Education, QF, saying: “This partnership is not just about providing students with the opportunity to acquire knowledge from top universities at Qatar Foundation.
“It’s about developing a global mindset with a sense of community engagement, encouraging inter-institutional collaboration, fostering long-lasting partnerships, and, more importantly, preparing our students to be leaders in an interconnected world.”
Study abroad greatly enriches a student’s academic journey, allowing them to learn in new, dynamic environments, expand their personal and professional networks, and make lifelong memories.
Representing a Region
When a group of students from four QF schools travelled to the South Korea capital, Seoul, to take part in the World Mathematics Team Championship, they returned with medals and awards in their luggage.
Twelve of the students who participated received bronze medals and seven received merit awards at the 14-country tournament, with Qatar the sole nation representing the Arab world. While there, the students wore Palestinian flags and bands, and took the chance to educate contestants from other countries about Palestine and its cause.
Meanwhile, the role of QF and its communication partner Memac Ogilvy in shaping Qatar’s World Cup narrative in 2022 was recognized at the 15th Annual Middle East Public Relations Awards, which celebrate exceptional communications campaigns and professionals from across the region.
Five awards were collected, two of which were due to the reach and impact of QF’s FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ campaign, with two more reflecting QF’s role in reputational and issue management before, during, and after the tournament.
When a group of students from four QF schools travelled to the South Korea capital, Seoul, to take part in the World Mathematics Team Championship, they returned with medals and awards in their luggage.
Twelve of the students who participated received bronze medals and seven received merit awards at the 14-country tournament, with Qatar the sole nation representing the Arab world. While there, the students wore Palestinian flags and bands, and took the chance to educate contestants from other countries about Palestine and its cause.
Meanwhile, the role of QF and its communication partner Memac Ogilvy in shaping Qatar’s World Cup narrative in 2022 was recognized at the 15th Annual Middle East Public Relations Awards, which celebrate exceptional communications campaigns and professionals from across the region.
Five awards were collected, two of which were due to the reach and impact of QF’s FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ campaign, with two more reflecting QF’s role in reputational and issue management before, during, and after the tournament.
This competition serves as a gateway to future leadership opportunities and expands our understanding of the world and its diverse cultures.
Accelerating Entrepreneurship
Staying on the innovation scene, a technology-accelerating program run by QF’s Qatar Science & Technology Park (QSTP) enabled an Education City inventor to drive forward his idea for making life safer for cyclists.
Mentorship and training from QSTP’s XLR8 program has been crucial to moving RESPO2 – which is worn over cycling helmets and has a visor and air filtration system to protect people from air pollution – closer to the point of commercialization. The innovation is the brainchild of Dr. Geoffrey Hicks, Director of Health, Safety, Security and Environment at HBKU’s Qatar Environment and Energy Research Institute.
Also in December, QF partner university HEC Paris in Qatar unveiled the Emerging Leaders Track of its world-renowned Executive MBA program. Catering to young, high-potential professionals from Qatar and the region, it will welcome its first cohort in the fall of 2024.
“Embracing inclusive leadership, encompassing age and gender diversity, our program is nurturing a new wave of adaptable leaders and entrepreneurs ready to excel in the dynamic regional and global business landscape,” said Dr. Shaheena Janjuha-Jivraj, Academic Director of the Emerging Leaders Track.
Staying on the innovation scene, a technology-accelerating program run by QF’s Qatar Science & Technology Park (QSTP) enabled an Education City inventor to drive forward his idea for making life safer for cyclists.
Mentorship and training from QSTP’s XLR8 program has been crucial to moving RESPO2 – which is worn over cycling helmets and has a visor and air filtration system to protect people from air pollution – closer to the point of commercialization. The innovation is the brainchild of Dr. Geoffrey Hicks, Director of Health, Safety, Security and Environment at HBKU’s Qatar Environment and Energy Research Institute.
Also in December, QF partner university HEC Paris in Qatar unveiled the Emerging Leaders Track of its world-renowned Executive MBA program. Catering to young, high-potential professionals from Qatar and the region, it will welcome its first cohort in the fall of 2024.
“Embracing inclusive leadership, encompassing age and gender diversity, our program is nurturing a new wave of adaptable leaders and entrepreneurs ready to excel in the dynamic regional and global business landscape,” said Dr. Shaheena Janjuha-Jivraj, Academic Director of the Emerging Leaders Track.
If you have a tremendous gift to bring to the world, through your innovation, you will already feel rewarded. You have to think of the wider good.
Legacy, Interconnectivity, Creativity
Elsewhere within QF’s partner universities, Northwestern University in Qatar examined the social, cultural, and economic legacy of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™, 12 months after the final whistle blew on the greatest tournament of all time.
Past and present Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar (WCM-Q) students also marked a milestone as they faced off in a debate on TikTok and mental health on the 15th anniversary of the university’s Debate Club; while WCM-Q’s Innovations and Technologies for Precision Health student club hosted its inaugural event, welcoming experts to demonstrate how collaboration serves innovation.
The interconnectivity between energy, culture, and society in the pursuit of sustainability was among the themes at GU-Q’s Global Energy Cultures public forum, held in collaboration with Msheireb Museums, which saw energy experts and scholars swap perspectives with artists and filmmakers.
And Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar launched its School Visits Program, where creative experts from the university inspired school students to immerse themselves in art and design, as well as opening doors for young people to enter the world of vinyl artistry.
Elsewhere within QF’s partner universities, Northwestern University in Qatar examined the social, cultural, and economic legacy of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™, 12 months after the final whistle blew on the greatest tournament of all time.
Past and present Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar (WCM-Q) students also marked a milestone as they faced off in a debate on TikTok and mental health on the 15th anniversary of the university’s Debate Club; while WCM-Q’s Innovations and Technologies for Precision Health student club hosted its inaugural event, welcoming experts to demonstrate how collaboration serves innovation.
The interconnectivity between energy, culture, and society in the pursuit of sustainability was among the themes at GU-Q’s Global Energy Cultures public forum, held in collaboration with Msheireb Museums, which saw energy experts and scholars swap perspectives with artists and filmmakers.
And Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar launched its School Visits Program, where creative experts from the university inspired school students to immerse themselves in art and design, as well as opening doors for young people to enter the world of vinyl artistry.
Nothing could compare to the lessons I learned in my work during the World Cup, that hard work and dedication could take you so far.
Committed to Inspiring
As 2023 drew to a close, Qatar once again illustrated its growing status as a global hub of education – as university presidents and leaders from around the world came to Doha to share experiences and ideas surrounding the challenges and trends shaping learning.
QF’s Education City co-hosted the third edition of International Association for University Presidents’ (IAUP) seminar for new and emerging leaders of higher education, allowing them to see firsthand what Francisco Marmolejo, QF’s President of Higher Education, described as “the success story of Qatar Foundation”.
“At Qatar Foundation, we are committed to supporting innovative and visionary approaches to higher education,” he said. “The fact we have partnered with IAUP and other universities in Qatar speaks volumes for our instrumental role in fostering conversations that are needed among leaders who are willing to experiment with new ideas aimed at reshaping higher education across the globe.”
And his words summed up what QF continues to represent, and what it can inspire - for its nation, for its region, for the world, and for everyone with the determination to unlock their potential.
“I am sure the story of Qatar Foundation will serve as a tangible reference of what can be achieved when an inspiring vision, committed leadership, and community involvement are in place.”
As 2023 drew to a close, Qatar once again illustrated its growing status as a global hub of education – as university presidents and leaders from around the world came to Doha to share experiences and ideas surrounding the challenges and trends shaping learning.
QF’s Education City co-hosted the third edition of International Association for University Presidents’ (IAUP) seminar for new and emerging leaders of higher education, allowing them to see firsthand what Francisco Marmolejo, QF’s President of Higher Education, described as “the success story of Qatar Foundation”.
“At Qatar Foundation, we are committed to supporting innovative and visionary approaches to higher education,” he said. “The fact we have partnered with IAUP and other universities in Qatar speaks volumes for our instrumental role in fostering conversations that are needed among leaders who are willing to experiment with new ideas aimed at reshaping higher education across the globe.”
And his words summed up what QF continues to represent, and what it can inspire - for its nation, for its region, for the world, and for everyone with the determination to unlock their potential.
“I am sure the story of Qatar Foundation will serve as a tangible reference of what can be achieved when an inspiring vision, committed leadership, and community involvement are in place.”
