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The Center for Empowerment and Care of the Elderly (Ehsan), an affiliate of the Ministry of Social Development and Family's (MSDF) Qatar Social Work Foundation, organised the 7th Research And Innovation Competition 2024, raising social awareness on the issues and needs of the elderly.The competition was organised in cooperation with the Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MoEHE) and Lusail University.The university hosted the student research exhibition in the attendance of a lineup of officials from the MSDF and MoEHE, and Lusail University, along with senior guests.The competition saw 138 male and female students from 37 secondary and high schools participate with a total of 46 research project submissions, supervised by 46 research supervisors, and eight arbitrators to evaluate the research projects. The winner's research projects will be announced on May 6.The research projects focused on the elderly, the issues and challenges they face, their needs, ways to protect them, as well as ways to enhance attitudes towards them and activate their social role.Commenting on the event, Acting Director of the Planning and Development Office at Ehsan, Al Anoud Mohammed al-Marri said the schools' eager and active participation in the competition is testimony to the awareness of the educational sector and the students' appreciation of the elderly.Al-Marri added that Ehsan continues to organise this research competition given Qatar's great interest in research and its role in innovation and development, as well as stemming from the center's belief in empowering newer generations and students to find solutions for social phenomena and issues of the elderly.It also hopes to forge an intergenerational connection and understanding.

Qatar Youth Hostels (QYH) has announced the winners of Tourist Lens Competition and on this occasion Abdullah Saeed, head of Public Relations and Communications said, "The participants in the 2nd edition of the Tourist Lens Competition achieved its desired goals by promoting domestic tourism and highlighting the tourist attractions in the country. The participation took place on three social media platforms, namely Instagram, X, and Tik Tok, through the collection of the most beautiful pictures of tourist attractions in Qatar. The competition included around a hundred participants on the three platforms. The most beautiful picture was chosen from each platform that received the most likes from the public. A prize of QR3,000 was allocated to each winner, and the winners were announced in the celebration of the International Day of Creativity and Innovation.In conclusion, Abdullah Saeed said: "QYH aspires to advance young people in the field of tourism and in various ways of life, as tourism helps the individual in cultural, civilisational and intellectual exchange."

The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has announced an eight-hour overnight traffic closure on Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor to traffic coming from HIA toward the North, from 2am to 10am on Friday, while keeping open the signal-controlled intersections and service roads. During the closure, in co-ordination with the General Directorate of Traffic, road users must use alternative local and service roads to reach their destinations as per the map. Ashghal will install road signs advising motorists of the temporary closure and has requested all to follow them, and abide by the speed limit to ensure safety.

The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH), in co-operation with Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), the Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC), Sidra Medicine, and the private health sector, launched an awareness campaign to observe World Immunization Week from April 24-30 under the theme (Humanly Possible: Saving lives through immunization).In a statement, the ministry said that the campaign aims to highlight the importance of vaccines and how immunization contributes to saving the lives of community members against vaccine-preventable diseases whose complications can lead to death, in addition to supporting community members to increase coverage of immunization against diseases that can be prevented through immunization for themselves and their children.The MoPH indicated that awareness messages about the significance of vaccinations will be posted on all social media platforms, as well as enhancing awareness among visitors of a number of primary health care centers, private centers, and clinics. In the statement, the ministry pointed out that Qatar has one of the best vaccination programs in the world.The MoPH, in co-operation with its partners, provides free and high-quality vaccination services in various regions of Qatar, as the routine vaccination schedule adopted in Qatar provides protection for children from more than 16 diseases. The ministry has also adopted a system of combining vaccines to reduce the number of doses received by the child while maintaining the same protection and effectiveness.The ministry explained that vaccinations are provided in the country for all age groups with special attention to newborns, children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly, as well as pregnant women and other vulnerable groups. The MoPH noted that achieving high immunization coverage has contributed to enhancing the health of the population of Qatar and eliminating many communicable diseases. This is cohesively fulfilled through a comprehensive healthcare system that relies on a proactive preventive approach and enhancing people's immunity through immunization.The 73rd World Health Assembly adopted a decision in which it endorsed the new global vision and overarching strategy for immunization Agenda 2030. This vision, developed by WHO and its immunization partners, calls for expanded access to vaccination at all stages of life, as one of the strategic priorities of this new decade. (QNA)

Old Doha Port has forged a strategic partnership with prominent marinas across Qatar to enhance the yachting experience and promote luxury marine tourism in the country. Marking the milestone collaboration, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed on Wednesday.The pact brings together Old Doha Port, Ronautica Middle East (operator of The Pearl Island marinas), Banana Island Resort Doha, Aura Group (Beefbar Marina), and Resort and Leisure Company WLL (Corinthia Yacht Club, Porto Arabia) marinas, uniting their efforts to offer comprehensive solutions and exclusive benefits to their clientele.“This partnership marks a pivotal step towards unifying our strengths and diversifying the experiences available to yacht and boat owners,” said Old Doha Port CEO Mohammed al-Mulla in a statement. “By leveraging each marina’s unique charm and offerings, we are collectively advancing our shared vision of becoming a premier global yachting destination.“Old Doha Port is proud to lead and play a significant role in this collaborative initiative. Through shared objectives and pooling our resources, we aim to significantly elevate Qatar's marina culture, setting new standards for luxury and service excellence.“This agreement is more than a commitment to collaboration; it is a roadmap for a future aligned with Qatar National Vision 2030. We will continue to offer unique, unparalleled experiences that reflect Qatar's rich maritime heritage and innovative spirit,” al-Mulla said.Central to the collaboration are the exclusive benefits extended to locals, residents, and tourists, including discounted rates at restaurants and accommodations, complimentary docking and berthing, and specialised catering services.Discounts ranging from 15% to 20% will be available across a spectrum of services, from food and beverage and hospitality to nautical activities, berthing, and maintenance facilities.Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the event, al-Mulla said this initiative has been meticulously studied, culminating in a successful launch through the signing of the MoU with the prominent marinas in Qatar.He added that this launch marks the beginning of more initiatives yet to come, serving the yachting industry in Qatar, indicating a new era of luxury marine experiences and heightened convenience, especially for boat and yacht owners.Al-Mulla cited key highlights of the agreement, including reciprocal berthing privileges between marinas, allowing customers to access berthing facilities free of charge at either location.According to stakeholders, this collaboration represents just the beginning of new avenues for co-operation among marine entities in Qatar. With the potential to expand offerings and provide innovative solutions, this multi-marina experience promises to elevate Qatar’s status as a leading luxury destination for boat owners and a dynamic hub for marine tourism on the global stage.

HE the Minister of Endowments (Awqaf) and Islamic Affairs Ghanem bin Shaheen al-Ghanem has honoured the winners of the 10th edition of ‘Little Muhaddith’ competition. A total of 55 boys and girls with the highest scores in the public competition received the prizes, an Awqaf statement said. The General Administration of Endowments director-general Dr Sheikh Khalid bin Mohamed bin Ghanem al-Thani noted the response for the 10th edition from the participants was overwhelming. He explained that the competition turned out to be an opportunity to encourage students and parents to compete in memorising and studying Hadiths. The ‘Little Muhaddith’ competition, organised under the supervision of Awqaf and the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, aims at inculcating the love of the Prophet (peace be upon him) in the hearts of the participants while inspiring them to emulate him.

The drama theatre at Katara - Cultural Village will the launch the activities of the 7th edition of the "Naham Al Khaleej" Art Award on Friday, with the participation of 13 artists from Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, the UAE, Bahrain and Iraq.The competitions, continuing until April 30, will witness the crowning of the winners of the "Naham Al Khaleej" Award, launched by Katara as part of its ongoing initiatives to revive the authentic heritage of Qatar and the GCC region, and to preserve the artistic heritage associated with the sea, especially of fishing and pearl diving.Mohamed al-Shahwani, vice-chairman of the Katara Naham Art Award Committee, explained that the competition of the fourth edition of the award features a first prize of QR50,000, second prize of QR40,000, third prize of QR30,000, and the fourth prize of QR10,000.Naham art is considered one of the most prominent maritime heritage arts, flourishing during fishing and pearl diving expeditions. It contributed to the appearance of such artists who mastered singing and chanting, to entertain sailors on the deck, bringing joy and enthusiasm to their hearts, and helping them endure the toil and effort of work.

Qatar Museums (QM) hosted the 22nd meeting of the GCC Undersecretaries Responsible for Antiquities and Museums on Wednesday, in collaboration with the GCC General Secretariat, a statement said.The agenda encompassed a review of the significant decisions made during the 21st session, chaired by Oman in 2023 via video conferencing, ensuring follow-up on key outcomes.These decisions play a crucial role in advancing the collective efforts within the fields of antiquities and museums, while enhancing relationships among GCC countries, friendly nations, and international organisations operating in these spheres.The meeting itinerary featured a recognition ceremony, honouring antiquities and museum specialists. The participating delegations also had the opportunity to explore an archaeological site during a guided tour.The meeting was chaired by QM CEO Mohamed Saad al-Rumaihi, in the presence of the representative of the GCC General Secretariat, and representatives of the GCC countries. The National Museum of Qatar director, Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Hamad al-Thani, led the Qatari delegation, which included Archaeology Department director Faisal Abdullah al-Nuaimi, and a group of archaeology specialists and experts from QM.Al-Rumaihi said: “This assembly underscores our commitment to foster cultural and heritage co-operation among our nations. Together, we are crafting a roadmap to safeguard our heritage and elevate our cultural standing on the global stage. Effective co-operation, both globally and locally, is paramount in the preservation of our monuments and the evolution of our museums. We are dedicated to fostering co-operative efforts aimed at enriching our cultural heritage and showcasing it to the global community using cutting-edge scientific approaches. We extend heartfelt appreciation to all individuals who have contributed, and continue to contribute, to these endeavours."Sheikh Abdulaziz said: “This programme marks a significant stride in translating the directives and recommendations laid out during the 21st GCC Undersecretaries Responsible for Antiquities and Museums meeting, reaffirming our dedication to fortify cultural and heritage co-operation. It presents a distinctive opportunity for participants to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of our region's history, delving into ancient civilisations through interactive sessions and educational visits that illuminate the richness and intricacies of our cultural heritage.”This event underscores QM’s unwavering commitment to enhancing regional co-operation in culture and heritage, further solidifying its position as a pivotal cultural hub in the region. It also exemplifies Qatar’s steadfast dedication to fostering the growth and development of the cultural and heritage sector, the statement added.

The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change has carried out a campaign to clean Ras Al Nuof beach, with the participation of a number of students from Noor Al Khaleej International School. A large quantity of industrial and plastic waste were collected . This campaign comes as part of the vision and strategy of the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MoECC), emphasising the importance of community participation in local environmental protection campaigns, targeting students and the younger generation to raise environmental awareness among all members of the local community. Abdulla al-Khelaifi, assistant director of Marine Life Protection Department, MoECC, stressed that the beach cleaning campaign is part of the efforts of the Ministry to protect the local environment, involving Qatari society to spread the culture of environmental sustainability and caring for local environment. He pointed out that such ongoing cleaning campaigns include educational lectures to introduce students and participants to their duties and responsibilities towards the Qatari environment, encouraging each individual to play their part in conserving and developing the environment.

A two-day International symposium that kicked off at University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST) on Wednesday, highlighted the importance of STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) and TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) education to meet the need for a skilled and capable workforce for the country.Speaking at the opening ceremony of the ‘International Symposium on Education and Skills for a Future-Ready Workforce: STEM and TVET for a Sustainable and Resilient Society’, HE Dr Ibrahim al-Naemi, undersecretary at the Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MoEHE) said STEM education has to be a very important part of the syllabus.“We want to integrate STEM education in all aspects of the curriculum. STEM and TVET are integral parts of the Third Qatar National Development Strategy 2024-2030. It is estimated that there would be large demand for employment in the STEM and TVET fields by 2030 as technical capabilities are essential to meet the needs of the society,” said Dr al-Naimi.The opening ceremony was also attended by Dr Salem al-Naemi, president of UDST; Salah Khaled, director of the Unesco Doha Office for Gulf States and Yemen; Max Tunon, head of the International Labour Organisation Office in Doha; and Sheikha Najwa bint Abdul Rahman al-Thani, assistant undersecretary for Qatar’s Migrant Labour Affairs as well as a number of high-level delegates.Welcoming the gathering, UDST president, Dr al-Naemi, said: “There is a high number of job opportunities available in the STEM fields locally and globally, yet a remarkable shortage of graduates and professionals with the necessary qualifications and developed skills to take on these roles. It is our responsibility now, as educational institutions, to close the gap between future industry needs and educational output.”“The Third Qatar National Development Strategy 2024-2030 has set ambitious targets for the country, requiring 46% of the workforce to be in skilled roles, and 18% of students to graduate in STEM fields by 2030. These are significant goals, and it is more important than ever that we continue working with MoEHE to bolster access to STEM education at UDST, and amplify our TVET.”This seminar is being held in response to the decisions made by the Committee of Ministers of Higher Education and Scientific Research in the Gulf Co-operation Council countries to establish a forum for studying specialised fields that are required by the current and future job market.The conference brings together regional educational institutions, industry stakeholders and policymakers to initiate dialogue on the role of STEM and TVET education in creating an industry-ready workforce. The event also provides a platform to develop a GCC-wide approach to education and workforce mobility in the region.The symposium hosted keynote talks on aligning education with industry needs, focusing on technology and workforce-readiness in closing the global skills gap, and an energised panel discussion on industry-academia partnerships. The day ended with specialised breakout sessions on academic programmes for a green economy, and digital literacy.The second day will feature engaging presentations on governance frameworks and novel approaches to TVET teaching, as well as breakout forums centred on AI in Education and Skills Initiatives. The event will be concluded with policy recommendations on academic initiatives and related education policies, and a framework linking government, academia and industry towards developing a sustainable and resilient current and future ready workforce through the “Doha Declaration on Education for Future Jobs: A roadmap for a sustainable and resilient society”.

Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, chairperson of Qatar Foundation (QF), honoured the winners of the 2024 Akhlaquna Awards during a ceremony held at Qatar National Library in Education City on Wednesday. The ceremony was attended by HE Sheikha Hind bint Hamad al-Thani, vice-chairperson and CEO of Qatar Foundation, alongside ministers, officials, and the parents of the awardees.Akhlaquna, initiated in 2017 by Her Highness Sheikha Moza, highlights the connection between ethics and knowledge, and reflects the strong ties between virtuous traits and ethical behaviours that are a key driver for social progress and development. This year's edition of QF’s Akhlaquna Awards received entries for the Individual Contributions Award from across Qatar and also the Gulf region.Among them was Ali Mohammed al-Kuwari, from Qatar, for his Etqan Programme: a television programme that emphasises the significance of performing tasks with skill and precision and make it an integral part of religious and societal commitment. The programme spans a wide range of topics, highlighting how Islamic ethics can be applied in all areas of life.Yousuf Ahmad al-Omran from Kuwait was honoured in the Individual Contributions from the Gulf Region category - presented for the first time – in recognition of his initiative Boujarrah Makes a Change. This project focuses on the repair and restoration of infrastructure in Kuwait, involving over 3,000 volunteers and completing more than 55 projects.The Akhlaquna Youth Award for 2024 – honouring school students aged 15-18 years who develop projects and initiatives for, and make contributions to, their community and their school – was won by Jassim Khamis al-Meraikhi, from Qatar Academy Al Khor; Ghalya Ebrahim al-Maraghi, from Al-Arqam Academy for Girls; Roudah Mubarak Abdullah, from Al-Eiman Girls Secondary School; Mohammed Abdulla Ebrahim, from Ahmed Bin Mohammad Boys Secondary School; Moza Abdulla Alfakhroo, from Al-Arqam Academy for Girls; and Noof Khamis al-Merakhi, from Al-Maha Academy for Girls.And the Akhlaquna Junior Award, an award honouring school students aged 7-14 years who are exemplary role models, was presented to 15 students from schools across Qatar. Their projects ranged from caring for nature and humanitarian initiatives to awareness campaigns and projects aimed at promoting the importance of morals such as compassion, benevolence, and patience.Muhammad Abdullah al-Ibrahim, an 18-year-old winner of this year's Akhlaquna Youth Award, said: "I'm really excited to have been chosen among this year's participants. It's been a tough and long journey, but a rewarding one. My projects focused on sharing the moral values taught by the Prophet (Peace Be Upon Him), particularly within my school community.”"Receiving this award is truly amazing, and I'm incredibly proud," said 17-year-old, Moza Abdulla Alfakhroo, who was also honoured with the Akhlaquna Youth Award and named as an Ethics Ambassador for Akhlaquna. "However, for me, the real achievement has always been about making a meaningful difference in my community.”During the ceremony, the launch of the Ambassadors of Akhlaquna Club – aimed at strengthening community bonds among individuals through a series of interactive activities planned throughout the year – was announced. The Akhlaquna initiative also announced its 2025 campaign under the slogan ‘Our Compassion is Our Strength’, to continue Akhlaquna’s journey of promoting positive and ethical values within the community.

Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) succeeded in performing the first robotic kidney transplant surgery in Qatar on a patient in his seventies.The patient had been suffering from chronic kidney failure for several years, necessitating daily peritoneal dialysis, in addition to other health issues such as high blood pressure.The surgical procedure took place at Hamad General Hospital, led by a specialised team in robotic surgery and organ transplantation under the direction of Dr Abdullah al-Ansari, chief medical officer at HMC. Page 8