The value and benefit of serving society were illustrated to more than 800 new university students who are now part of Qatar Foundation (QF)’s unique ecosystem of education, as an annual gathering marking the start of the new academic year encouraged them to embrace the spirit of giving back.
The traditional Marhaba event – held at Multaqa – saw students who are embarking on studies within the eight universities at the QF learn about the opportunities that await them over the coming years, and what it means to be a QF student.
Speaking to the students, QF chief executive Yousif al-Naama said: “You’re taking your first steps on an incredible journey, in a place of learning, discovery, and connection that is unlike anything else anywhere in the world.”
“And you’re taking those steps in the year that marks the 30th anniversary of the QF – three decades of nurturing future leaders and change-makers like you, equipping them to excel in their fields and nurturing them to lead fulfilling lives,” he said.
Emphasising the sense of belonging and shared identity that comes from entering the QF ecosystem, al-Naama said: “Wherever you are from, whatever university you are studying at, wherever you hope your path will lead, you are united by the fact you are students of the QF.”
“You are part of our community; and you are part of our story – a story that we’ve been writing for 30 years, and that you will now help us write the next chapters of,” he stated.
Francisco Marmolejo, president of Higher Education and education adviser at the QF, told the new students: “Among the QF’s values are ‘integrity’ and ‘community’.”
“In everything we do, we contribute to the progress of society – in Qatar, across our region, and around the world,” he said. “And that includes the educational experience that we offer.”
“We encourage, enable, and provide opportunities for every one of you to be of service to society – either by volunteerism, advocacy, supporting, and even creating community-focus initiatives, or through any pathway that allows you to give something to others,” Marmolejo added.
The day-long event included student showcases, where representatives from QF universities spoke about community service and student engagement, along with a fair that introduced new students to the opportunities available across Education City.
Keynote speaker Amjad Alnour – a filmmaker, journalist, and TV presenter – recounted his own college experience, encouraging students to recognise the value of helping others.
“Why don’t you try advocacy?” he posed to the students. “Find yourself a cause that’s worth fighting for, give it your all, and see how that makes you feel.”
“Not only will it help you shift the focus from your own personal problems by being of service to others, but it will also give you a sense of fulfilment and self-worth – a sense that you matter to those people that seek help,” Alnour said. “With the explosion of artificial intelligence (AI), social media, and technology, you have the tools to be loud and to speak up.”
