The Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the College of Engineering, Qatar University (QU), organised the first competition of its kind for 'Earthquake-Resistant Structures.'
The competition saw wide participation from various high schools across the country, with students designing and constructing using simple and safe materials, miniature models of buildings capable of withstanding earthquakes. The models were tested using the department’s earthquake simulation device to evaluate their resistance to seismic vibrations.
The initiative aimed to introduce students to the fundamentals of earthquake engineering and seismic-resistant construction while also enhancing teamwork, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. It further provided an opportunity for students to explore engineering programmes at QU and engage with faculty members and university students.
Prof Alaa al-Hawari, head of the Civil and Environmental Engineering Department at QU, said: "Through this competition, we aim to inspire the next generation of engineers and familiarise them with the real-life challenges we face in designing buildings resistant to natural disasters, especially earthquakes. We were impressed by the students’ ideas, and we are excited to expand the competition in the coming years.”
Khalifa Secondary School for Boys claimed first place for an outstanding design that withstood the highest levels of vibration. Ibn Taymiyyah Secondary School for Boys won second place while Omar Bin Abdulaziz Secondary School for Boys won third place. A special prize for the best architectural and aesthetic design went to Omar Bin Abdulaziz Secondary School for Boys for their innovative tower design that combined beauty and functionality.
