Podar Pearl School has reached a major milestone in its international journey, becoming the first and only Round Square Global Member School in Qatar.
Round Square is an international network of more than 300 schools across 50 countries and six continents. Its educational philosophy is centred on character education and experiential learning, giving students opportunities to learn through action, collaboration and real-world experiences.
The recognition marks an important step in the school's commitment to developing students through international collaboration, experiential learning, character development, leadership and service.
The landmark announcement was made during the Round Square International Conference (RSIC) 2026, hosted by Barker College in Sydney, Australia. The school had been a Round Square Candidate School since 2025 and, following its successful journey towards permanent membership, was formally welcomed as a Global Member during the conference.
“Becoming the first Round Square Global Member School in Qatar is a proud moment for every student, teacher and parent at Podar Pearl School. The Round Square IDEALS reflect what we believe education should be: developing not only academic ability, but also character, compassion, leadership and a global outlook. We are grateful to the Round Square community for welcoming us and look forward to representing Qatar with pride on the global stage,” said C Muhamed Nizar, president, Podar Pearl School.
Podar Pearl School was represented at the RSIC 2026 conference by a six-member student delegation: Sanjana Nalluri, Shraddha Rani Ajith, Divya Mukesh Thawani, Anokhi Poodduturi and Tanay Sanghvi of Grade 12, and Maria Saqib Qadri of Grade 11, accompanied by the school's two Round Square Coordinators, Rathi Ramanujam and Neethu Panicker. The school's president also joined the delegation for the inaugural proceedings.
The conference brought together Round Square students and educators for a programme centred on the theme “Visions of the Future from an Ancient Land.” Delegates participated in discussions, Baraza groups, cultural activities, environmental initiatives, service experiences and adventure-based learning. The conference also provided opportunities for students from different countries to collaborate, exchange perspectives and build friendships across cultures.
Podar Pearl School also looks forward to welcoming members of the international Round Square community to Doha and creating opportunities for students from Qatar to contribute their own perspectives, culture and experiences to the global network.
The achievement reflects the collective efforts of the school’s students, teachers, senior leadership and management, whose continued support has helped establish and strengthen the Round Square journey at Podar Pearl School.
From becoming a Candidate School in 2025 to receiving the Round Square flag as a Global Member School in Sydney in 2026, Podar Pearl School has taken a significant step towards becoming a stronger part of a global educational community.
