January
As 2024 began, QF launched its newest center, held an immersive celebration of education, and opened up creative pathways for learning – while continuing to stand in solidarity with the Palestinian people amid the war in Gaza.
Social Progress
Strengthening Islamic IdentityThe arrival of a new year also brought a new addition to Qatar Foundation’s (QF) ecosystem of knowledge and opportunity – as Al-Mujadilah Center and Mosque for Women was unveiled.
Founded by Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, and catering to Muslim women of all ages and backgrounds, Al-Mujadilah’s aim is to strengthen the Islamic identity of Muslim women and foster a Muslim society where all women are engaged, their participation and contributions are acknowledged and recognized, and their perspectives shape contemporary Muslim thought and discourse.
With its inspiration stemming from the mosque’s traditional role as the axis of society, Al-Mujadilah – housed within QF’s Education City – is equipped with classrooms, a library, gathering spaces, and gardens. As a community space for women, it will host activities and providing Arabic and English programming – from courses and workshops on Islamic history and law, and mental health and wellbeing, to book clubs, training programs, and research.
The arrival of a new year also brought a new addition to Qatar Foundation’s (QF) ecosystem of knowledge and opportunity – as Al-Mujadilah Center and Mosque for Women was unveiled.
Founded by Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, and catering to Muslim women of all ages and backgrounds, Al-Mujadilah’s aim is to strengthen the Islamic identity of Muslim women and foster a Muslim society where all women are engaged, their participation and contributions are acknowledged and recognized, and their perspectives shape contemporary Muslim thought and discourse.
With its inspiration stemming from the mosque’s traditional role as the axis of society, Al-Mujadilah – housed within QF’s Education City – is equipped with classrooms, a library, gathering spaces, and gardens. As a community space for women, it will host activities and providing Arabic and English programming – from courses and workshops on Islamic history and law, and mental health and wellbeing, to book clubs, training programs, and research.
Research at Al-Mujadilah Center and Mosque for Women is centered on:
- Islamic texts, laws, and ethics
- Muslim women’s lives
- Muslim Women’s health and wellbeing
Progressive Education
Supporting and ElevatingSpeaking at the inauguration of Al-Mujadilah, Her Highness Sheikha Moza explained the inspiration for the center and mosque, and its name, referring to the story of Khawla bint Tha’labah (r.a), who engaged in dialogue with the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
“In philosophy, it is said that the evolution of civilization originated in dialogue,” Her Highness Sheikha Moza said. “Through these verses, we have seen how Khawla bint Tha’labah argued well in accordance with her values. Through her advocacy, she solved her problem.
“Designed to attract our young Muslim women, so that women’s prayer rooms do not stay marginalized and isolated in a remote corner, this space will host programs that support and elevate women’s education, and meet their contemporary intellectual needs to raise women’s awareness of religious and worldly matters – personally, socially, and from the perspective of the family.”
Days after its inauguration, Al-Mujadilah opened its doors for a community event where members of the public sampled its social, developmental, religious, and research programs through activities and classes reflecting the Islamic tradition of the interconnectedness of mind, body, and soul.
Speaking at the inauguration of Al-Mujadilah, Her Highness Sheikha Moza explained the inspiration for the center and mosque, and its name, referring to the story of Khawla bint Tha’labah (r.a), who engaged in dialogue with the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
“In philosophy, it is said that the evolution of civilization originated in dialogue,” Her Highness Sheikha Moza said. “Through these verses, we have seen how Khawla bint Tha’labah argued well in accordance with her values. Through her advocacy, she solved her problem.
“Designed to attract our young Muslim women, so that women’s prayer rooms do not stay marginalized and isolated in a remote corner, this space will host programs that support and elevate women’s education, and meet their contemporary intellectual needs to raise women’s awareness of religious and worldly matters – personally, socially, and from the perspective of the family.”
Days after its inauguration, Al-Mujadilah opened its doors for a community event where members of the public sampled its social, developmental, religious, and research programs through activities and classes reflecting the Islamic tradition of the interconnectedness of mind, body, and soul.
Everyone among us has been formed by the care of a woman, and today, with the launch of Al-Mujadilah, we reinvigorate a society after centuries of marginalizing women.
Progressive Education
A Shared DutyEducation is everyone’s responsibility – this was the theme of a special celebration at QF’s Education City in January to mark the International Day of Education.
A collaboration between QF and the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, the day featured a series of activities in the Arabic language, including an interactive exhibition of educational programs, the chance for secondary school students to visit QF’s partner universities, and an opportunity for parents to visit their children’s schools at QF.
And Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, participated in a discussion on society’s shared responsibility toward language and identity, in which she told students: “Have confidence in yourself, and always bear in mind the unique and wonderful qualities of the Arabic language.
“Be open to others and celebrate their characteristics, but I ask you to reject the aspects of global citizenry that require you to erase or weaken our local and national identity.”
The International Day of Education celebration at QF will continue to be held annually on 24 January, with the aim of inspiring everyone to champion and elevate the standard of education in Qatar.
Education is everyone’s responsibility – this was the theme of a special celebration at QF’s Education City in January to mark the International Day of Education.
A collaboration between QF and the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, the day featured a series of activities in the Arabic language, including an interactive exhibition of educational programs, the chance for secondary school students to visit QF’s partner universities, and an opportunity for parents to visit their children’s schools at QF.
And Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, participated in a discussion on society’s shared responsibility toward language and identity, in which she told students: “Have confidence in yourself, and always bear in mind the unique and wonderful qualities of the Arabic language.
“Be open to others and celebrate their characteristics, but I ask you to reject the aspects of global citizenry that require you to erase or weaken our local and national identity.”
The International Day of Education celebration at QF will continue to be held annually on 24 January, with the aim of inspiring everyone to champion and elevate the standard of education in Qatar.
By commemorating this day, Qatar Foundation showcases its commitment and keen belief in the importance of investing in human development.
Progressive Education, Social Progress
An Invitation to ArabicReflecting QF’s commitment to preserving and promoting the Arabic language, native and non-native student speakers alike were learning more about its beauty, its nuances, and its continuing relevance to everyday life – thanks to ‘Discover Arabic’.
That is the name of a program, offered for free to university students at QF, that blends in-person and online teaching to help them develop their Arabic proficiency during their time at Education City – wherever in the world they come from.
Developed with the Translation and Interpreting Institute, part of QF member Hamad Bin Khalifa University’s (HBKU) College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Discover Arabic is the first in a series of initiatives to expand the opportunity for QF students to study the language. And alongside the tuition it offers, the program also promotes integration and cultural exchange between students from different universities, and broadens their understanding of Qatari culture and the Arab world.
Among them is QF computer engineering student Ibtisam Haseeb, who said: “Non-natives living in Qatar should consider learning Arabic for cultural integration, improved daily interactions, and enhanced opportunities in this diverse and dynamic environment.”
Reflecting QF’s commitment to preserving and promoting the Arabic language, native and non-native student speakers alike were learning more about its beauty, its nuances, and its continuing relevance to everyday life – thanks to ‘Discover Arabic’.
That is the name of a program, offered for free to university students at QF, that blends in-person and online teaching to help them develop their Arabic proficiency during their time at Education City – wherever in the world they come from.
Developed with the Translation and Interpreting Institute, part of QF member Hamad Bin Khalifa University’s (HBKU) College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Discover Arabic is the first in a series of initiatives to expand the opportunity for QF students to study the language. And alongside the tuition it offers, the program also promotes integration and cultural exchange between students from different universities, and broadens their understanding of Qatari culture and the Arab world.
Among them is QF computer engineering student Ibtisam Haseeb, who said: “Non-natives living in Qatar should consider learning Arabic for cultural integration, improved daily interactions, and enhanced opportunities in this diverse and dynamic environment.”
Many non-native speakers can benefit from learning Arabic due to their desire to comprehend the Holy Qur’an and the inherent beauty of the language.
Progressive Education
A Flightpath for LearningThe creativity and diversity of the learning experience that QF offers was once again displayed in January as children from its Early Education Center (EEC) saw their education really take off – with a visit from Qatar Airways pilots and flight attendants.
Over 180 children aged from six months to three years learned about flying through stories, fun activities, and simulations of airport life, including stamping ‘passports’, weighing pretend luggage, and sending school bags through a cardboard box doubling as a baggage scanner. The visit was part of EEC’s ‘Discover Qatar’ learning journey, which helps children learn about the country.
Artificial Intelligence
Enhancing AI UnderstandingMeanwhile, students at Qatar Academy for Science and Technology – part of QF’s Pre-University Education – joined special courses at the school that explore how Artificial Intelligence could be used within the classroom, broadening their understanding of its impact on teaching, learning, and interactions between students and educators.
And also in the AI world, HBKU’s Qatar Computing Research Institute staged its Generative AI Hackathon, where 20 teams from across Qatar were challenged to create new AI models, experiment with existing ones, and explore new ways of applying this technology.
The creativity and diversity of the learning experience that QF offers was once again displayed in January as children from its Early Education Center (EEC) saw their education really take off – with a visit from Qatar Airways pilots and flight attendants.
Over 180 children aged from six months to three years learned about flying through stories, fun activities, and simulations of airport life, including stamping ‘passports’, weighing pretend luggage, and sending school bags through a cardboard box doubling as a baggage scanner. The visit was part of EEC’s ‘Discover Qatar’ learning journey, which helps children learn about the country.
This visit is a prime example of the impact that purposeful play can have in supporting engaging and meaningful learning opportunities for children.
Social Progress
The Power of DebateOn the regional and international stage, and through new platforms, the importance of debate and discourse in understanding and tackling the issues shaping our world in January.
With the New York Times, QatarDebate – founded by QF – brought together industry experts, entrepreneurs, thought leaders, and decision-makers for a debate on the sidelines of the 54th World Economic Forum in Davos, focusing on whether confidence in global cooperation can be restored.
QatarDebate joined Oman Debate in hosting the Oasis of Dialogue Forum in the Omani capital Muscat, a new platform designed to foster constructive dialogue around key topics affecting the Gulf region, with the first edition of the forum discussing the importance of tourism in building bridges of communication and understanding between the Gulf states and other nations.
And QF’s Doha Debates debuted Necessary Tomorrows, a new podcast presented through Al Jazeera, written by award-winning authors, and hosted by an AI instructor called Ursula, which combines science fiction and non-fiction narratives to envision a hopeful future for the world.
On the regional and international stage, and through new platforms, the importance of debate and discourse in understanding and tackling the issues shaping our world in January.
With the New York Times, QatarDebate – founded by QF – brought together industry experts, entrepreneurs, thought leaders, and decision-makers for a debate on the sidelines of the 54th World Economic Forum in Davos, focusing on whether confidence in global cooperation can be restored.
QatarDebate joined Oman Debate in hosting the Oasis of Dialogue Forum in the Omani capital Muscat, a new platform designed to foster constructive dialogue around key topics affecting the Gulf region, with the first edition of the forum discussing the importance of tourism in building bridges of communication and understanding between the Gulf states and other nations.
And QF’s Doha Debates debuted Necessary Tomorrows, a new podcast presented through Al Jazeera, written by award-winning authors, and hosted by an AI instructor called Ursula, which combines science fiction and non-fiction narratives to envision a hopeful future for the world.
Artificial Intelligence
Opening AI OpportunitiesStudents and industry professionals in Qatar will have new opportunities to build their skills in the fields of AI and information communication technology at QF, following the January inauguration of the Huawei HBKU AI ICT Academy Lab – a hub for innovation and hands-on learning experiences at the cutting edge of technology.
The month also saw HBKU’s College of Science and Engineering partner with Spain’s IE School of Science & Technology, and its Impact Xcelerator initiative, to host the Healthcare and Technology Collider roundtable, unlocking entry points for improving healthcare through AI and new technologies.
Progressive Education
Alumni ImpactMeanwhile, through innovation and art, QF alumni were making a name for themselves within and beyond the Middle East. Mohammed Al-Qassabi, a graduate of QF partner university Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar, claimed four awards at the Seoul International Invention Fair in South Korea for his invention, a system that detects offsides in football matches.
And four alumni of QF partner university Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar (VCUarts Qatar) – Aisha Al Sowaidi, Maryam Al-Homaid, Rabah Saeid, and Shaikha Al-Sulaiti – were named on Architectural Digest Middle East’s list of the top 100 designers in the region.
Students and industry professionals in Qatar will have new opportunities to build their skills in the fields of AI and information communication technology at QF, following the January inauguration of the Huawei HBKU AI ICT Academy Lab – a hub for innovation and hands-on learning experiences at the cutting edge of technology.
The month also saw HBKU’s College of Science and Engineering partner with Spain’s IE School of Science & Technology, and its Impact Xcelerator initiative, to host the Healthcare and Technology Collider roundtable, unlocking entry points for improving healthcare through AI and new technologies.
This state-of-the-art facility will empower our students and professionals with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the digital era.
The Huawei HBKU AI ICT Academy Lab offers:
- Specialized training programs
- Workshops
- Certification courses
Precision Health
Pioneering for PeopleJanuary saw a series of medical breakthroughs within the QF ecosystem, including the pioneering of a new treatment for a child with congenital hyperinsulinism – severe low blood sugar – by QF member Sidra Medicine.
The leading women’s and children’s hospital and medical research center also published a groundbreaking study on how short-term consumption of highly processed diets can impair the metabolism of the brain and sense of smell; while a Sidra Medicine study was recognized as a key advancement in the field of cancer microbiome.
And HBKU’s Qatar Biomedical Research Institute, working with the US’ University of Rhode Island, unveiled research presenting a potential avenue for treating Alzheimer’s disease.
Social Progress
No Need for WordsThere was also a milestone for Hamad Bin Khalifa University Press, the QF-based publishing house, as it published its first wordless book, I Wish I Knew, by author Souha Abou Chakra and award-winning illustrator Zohreh Godini. Using only creative illustration, it invites readers to consider the potentially harmful effects of prolonged internet use.
January saw a series of medical breakthroughs within the QF ecosystem, including the pioneering of a new treatment for a child with congenital hyperinsulinism – severe low blood sugar – by QF member Sidra Medicine.
The leading women’s and children’s hospital and medical research center also published a groundbreaking study on how short-term consumption of highly processed diets can impair the metabolism of the brain and sense of smell; while a Sidra Medicine study was recognized as a key advancement in the field of cancer microbiome.
And HBKU’s Qatar Biomedical Research Institute, working with the US’ University of Rhode Island, unveiled research presenting a potential avenue for treating Alzheimer’s disease.
I am very proud to see the clinical research and treatment innovation under way at our hospital, that aids in the delivery of precision health programs for our patients.
Precision health research at Sidra Medicine is focused on:
- Human genetics
- Immunology
- Maternal and child health
Social Progress
Perspectives on PalestineWith Gaza and Palestine continuing to be devastated by war, QF remained steadfast in its solidarity with the Palestinian people and its commitment to amplifying their voices and broadening understanding of their situation.
Palestinian-American author, poet, and clinical psychologist Hala Alyan touched on themes of resilience, identity, and heritage in a talk at VCUarts Qatar, where she spoke about the role of art in reinforcing solidarity, and ways of bolstering endurance in times of hardship.
Fellow QF partner university Georgetown University in Qatar (GU-Q) began its Palestine Speaker Series for 2024 by welcoming historian and analyst Tareq Baconi, who explored the complex history of the Gaza Strip.
And the Mohammed Bin Hamad Al Thani Center for Muslim Contribution to Civilization at HBKU hosted Qatar University professor Dr. Mohammad Al-Majali for a discussion on the historical significance of Palestine to Islamic civilization, and Palestine’s pivotal role in shaping Islamic consciousness. He urged Muslims to reflect on the importance of Palestine to their faith amid the crisis in Gaza.
With Gaza and Palestine continuing to be devastated by war, QF remained steadfast in its solidarity with the Palestinian people and its commitment to amplifying their voices and broadening understanding of their situation.
Palestinian-American author, poet, and clinical psychologist Hala Alyan touched on themes of resilience, identity, and heritage in a talk at VCUarts Qatar, where she spoke about the role of art in reinforcing solidarity, and ways of bolstering endurance in times of hardship.
Fellow QF partner university Georgetown University in Qatar (GU-Q) began its Palestine Speaker Series for 2024 by welcoming historian and analyst Tareq Baconi, who explored the complex history of the Gaza Strip.
And the Mohammed Bin Hamad Al Thani Center for Muslim Contribution to Civilization at HBKU hosted Qatar University professor Dr. Mohammad Al-Majali for a discussion on the historical significance of Palestine to Islamic civilization, and Palestine’s pivotal role in shaping Islamic consciousness. He urged Muslims to reflect on the importance of Palestine to their faith amid the crisis in Gaza.
The reality of Gaza is central to understanding what Palestine is, and I don’t see any form of emancipation or decolonization without the undoing of justice around Gaza.
Social Progress
Sport and SolidarityPalestine was also at the heart of Education City’s role in a showcase of Asian footballing excellence in January.
The Education City Stadium – one of the venues for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ and now becoming a hub for women’s and girls’ sport – hosted a series of matches during the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™, including the Palestinian national team’s match against Iran.
And as fans made their way to the stadium, they were immersed in the culture of Palestine through an exhibition of Palestinian art, alongside musical performances, a calligraphy wall, and fun football activities.
Reflecting QF’s belief that sport should be accessible to all, the stadium experience also continued to provide sensory rooms for those with disabilities, ensuring people of all abilities can soak up the sporting experience at the stadium known as the ‘Diamond in the Desert’.
Palestine was also at the heart of Education City’s role in a showcase of Asian footballing excellence in January.
The Education City Stadium – one of the venues for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ and now becoming a hub for women’s and girls’ sport – hosted a series of matches during the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™, including the Palestinian national team’s match against Iran.
And as fans made their way to the stadium, they were immersed in the culture of Palestine through an exhibition of Palestinian art, alongside musical performances, a calligraphy wall, and fun football activities.
Reflecting QF’s belief that sport should be accessible to all, the stadium experience also continued to provide sensory rooms for those with disabilities, ensuring people of all abilities can soak up the sporting experience at the stadium known as the ‘Diamond in the Desert’.
