Qatar Diabetes Association (QDA), a member of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development, organised yesterday the annual Summer Al-Bawasil programme.
Summer Al-Bawasil is an annual programme of educational and recreational activities organised during the summer by the association for children diagnosed with diabetes from the age of six to 11 years.
The programme aims to teach children skills such as how to control the blood sugar level, how to choose healthy meals, insulin injections and other skills that give them the confidence to attain their full potential. 
The programme consisted of a ‘know each other’ fun activity, an insulin injection workshop, a workshop on healthy choices held under the supervision of dietitians and a workshop on hypo and hyper, prevention and treatment, QDA said in a 
statement.
The children “interacted vigorously, enjoyed a wonderful time with their peers and also enjoyed the healthy meals and gifts presented to them”, the statement noted.
Qatar Diabetes Association pays special attention to children with diabetes through several programmes, headed by the Al-Bawasil Children’s Diabetes Camp, which was established in 1999. It is an annual international camp in which Arab countries, Iran, Pakistan, Afghanistan and some African countries participate. The 19th edition will be launched in 
December. 
Al-Bawasil Camp is an enjoyable and useful holiday experience for children with diabetes, where they learn how to rely on self-care, depend on themselves, gain personal independence and exchange experiences and information with their peers in a “safe, loving and fun environment under excellent medical supervision”.
Other important programmes aimed at children living with diabetes are Al-Bawasil Club and its educational programmes.
In addition, QDA is working on a programme titled ‘The rights of students with diabetes in school’ in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Higher Education.