Upon the directives of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, an air bridge has been launched to the friendly Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela carrying a team from the Qatari International Search and Rescue Group, of the Internal Security Force (Lekhwiya). This air bridge comes in support of the international efforts to rescue those affected by the two earthquakes that struck Venezuela. The Qatari team comprises internationally certified search and rescue specialists, medical personnel, a field hospital, and advanced equipment to support those affected in the disaster-stricken areas.

Before stores open and shoppers arrive, many residents in Qatar are filling malls early in the morning to join fitness activities, adapting their routines to the country’s rising temperatures. With public health guidance advising against prolonged outdoor physical activity during peak daytime heat, some fitness communities have moved indoors to air-conditioned public spaces to maintain consistency. One example is a social running club led by Jorge Cota, which has moved its weekly sessions indoors at Doha Festival City during the summer. Instead of pausing activities altogether, members now trace the mall’s layout with their footsteps, completing multiple laps around the corridors. “In my previous experiences with run clubs, they don’t run during the summer because it’s impossible to run with this heat,” Cota told Gulf Times. “At least here, we have the possibility to keep running, but inside the mall.” He added that malls have become the most practical option among the alternatives the club considered, such as air-conditioned parks in Doha. Limited operating hours made those less suitable for early-morning runs, so the club ultimately opted for a space that could offer continuous air conditioning and predictable loops. For Cota, preserving the social aspect of the club is just as important as the exercise itself. “We are focusing on the fun part of the run,” he said, explaining that participants are made to gather at cafés after every session to meet and catch up with one another. Among residents adapting their fitness habits during the summer months is Zaara Shaheer Khan, who said she values the opportunity to meet new people through indoor fitness activities. A regular participant in indoor fitness sessions, she said their appeal also lies in how the environment shapes her experience of exercising in the heat. “Outdoors is absolutely a battle in this weather,” Khan said. “Being indoors really helps to focus on mindset and form without worrying about burning or sweating.” Exercising in a shopping destination also adds to the appeal of the experience afterwards, she said, noting that grabbing a meal or shopping often becomes “too easy or alluring after the activity”. Khan acknowledged that while indoor fitness sessions cannot be a daily occurrence due to travel times and scheduling, they offer a flexible alternative that allows residents to remain active in a city where heat can hinder outdoor activity.

Qatar’s journey toward a knowledge-based economy continues to be shaped by a strong alignment between higher education, the labour market, and national development goals. Through partnerships between universities, government institutions, and the private sector, the country is preparing a generation equipped with the skills, creativity, and ambition needed for the future.“Qatar has made significant strides in recent years in linking education to the labour market. The goal is no longer simply to obtain a university degree, but to graduate qualified individuals with the skills needed for the future,” said Khawla Abdullah al-Bahr, a public health expert and sports nutritionist. “Today, we see partnerships between universities and the public and private sectors, and specialisations related to digital transformation, scientific research, sustainability, and health, which enhances employment opportunities and innovation.”Al-Bahr highlighted that education, family values, and personal development played a central role in shaping her own journey. Growing up in a home that valued reading, learning, and a healthy lifestyle, she developed early habits that influenced both her academic and professional path.“From childhood, we have always eaten healthy food. My father encouraged us to exercise and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Our house was a house of readers, and we read stories in Arabic and English from a young age, which strengthened our language skills.”Her professional focus combines physical health, sports, and community awareness, reflecting the importance of balancing mental and physical well-being. “A well-balanced person who eats, studies, and sleeps in a structured way is also capable of working effectively. My goal is to help individuals enjoy health and well-being because society needs such people to serve the nation and contribute to its progress.”Her passion for public health became even stronger during her postgraduate studies, particularly after her son was diagnosed with diabetes. This experience inspired her to raise awareness among families about diabetes prevention and healthy lifestyles.“We should encourage people to exercise with their children, eat foods low in sugar, and diversify their diet with fruits and vegetables. In this way, we protect society and prevent many children from falling into the trap of diabetes.”Al-Bahr also emphasised the importance of continuous learning and professional qualifications. “Qatar requires us to obtain degrees along with experience and application in the field of specialisation. When you have experience and a method of performance, it is very important to have a goal in order to raise and elevate society with continuity and sustainability.”Beyond education, attracting national talent to the private sector remains a key pillar of economic growth. Providing career development opportunities, training, and an environment that encourages creativity can help young Qataris achieve their ambitions.“Attracting national talent to the private sector not only serves the individual’s interests but also contributes to strengthening the national economy and raising competitiveness. Qatari youth possess competence and ambition, and when given the right opportunities, they can achieve great accomplishments in various sectors.”She noted that university graduates today must look beyond academic qualifications. “A degree is important, but it is no longer the only factor. Employers are also looking for soft skills, problem-solving abilities, continuous learning, and flexibility in dealing with changes.”Government and private initiatives also play a vital role in supporting innovation among young people. “When young people find support, training, funding, and guidance, they become more capable of innovation and turning their ambition into an achievement that serves society and the national economy.”Looking ahead, Al-Bahr believes Qatar’s youth are positioned to contribute significantly to the country’s future vision. “Don’t be afraid to try new ideas, because every great achievement started with a small idea. Invest in your skills, take advantage of the available programs and initiatives, and trust in your ability to make a difference.” She concluded.