Barzan University College (BUC), in partnership with Swinburne University of Technology, provided students with an experiential learning opportunity through an educational visit to Fuwairit Beach during Qatar's annual hawksbill sea turtle hatching season.
Organised in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MoECC), the visit gave students the opportunity to witness endangered hawksbill sea turtle hatchlings emerge from their nests before participating in their safe release into the Arabian Gulf.
Guided by environmental specialists from the ministry, the students gained first-hand insight into the life cycle of hawksbill sea turtles, the ecological importance of protecting nesting habitats, and the scientific methods used to monitor nests, safeguard hatchlings, and preserve Qatar's marine biodiversity.
They also explored the environmental challenges facing the species, including habitat degradation, climate change, marine pollution, and human activity, while learning how scientific research, conservation programmes, and public policy work together to protect Qatar's coastal ecosystems.
By participating in the release of the hatchlings into their natural habitat, the students developed a deeper appreciation of the shared responsibility individuals, organisations, and communities have in protecting the environment for future generations.
"Witnessing the hatching of Qatar's endangered hawksbill sea turtles and participating in their release into the Arabian Gulf was a truly memorable experience that brought environmental conservation to life,” said BUC chief executive and vice-chairman Dr Hassan al-Derham. “We are proud to partner with the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change in creating opportunities that connect academic learning with national priorities while inspiring our students to become responsible leaders who contribute to a more sustainable future."
"Opportunities such as these foster curiosity, critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving, preparing our graduates to address the complex environmental and societal challenges of the future with confidence and purpose,” said BUC dean and chief academic officer Dr Lotfi Belkhir.
