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Friday, December 05, 2025 | Daily Newspaper published by GPPC Doha, Qatar.

Tag Results for "QATAR" (360 articles)

Gulf Times
Qatar

President of Transitional Presidential Council of Haiti tours NMoQ

The President of the Transitional Presidential Council of the Republic of Haiti, Anthony Frank Laurent Saint-Cyr, and his accompanying delegation visited the National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ) on Monday.The visit came as part of his participation in the Second World Summit for Social Development, scheduled to convene on Tuesday.During the tour, Saint-Cyr viewed the museum's most prized collections across its various galleries and received a comprehensive briefing on its precious treasures, which span multiple eras.He was accompanied by HE Director of the National Museum of Qatar Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Hamad Al-Thani.

Gulf Times
Sport

Italy edge Qatar 1-0 in hard-fought FIFA U-17 World Cup opener

Qatar’s passionate fans created a raucous atmosphere at Mansour Muftah Pitch at Aspire, urging their team forward from start to finish, but Italy held firm to claim a hard-fought 1-0 victory in their opening match of the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025.A fine first-half strike from Samuele Inacio — who finished coolly after a precise through ball from Benit Borasio — proved decisive for the Azzurrini.The young Maroons battled bravely to level the score, showing greater attacking intent after the break. Omar al-Marzouki came close with a powerful shot that was cleared off the line in the 50th minute, while Issa Walid narrowly missed an equaliser with a late effort in the 87th. Despite Qatar’s spirited second-half display, Italy’s disciplined defence ensured all three points stayed with the European side.Qatar's next match is against South Africa on Thursday, while their last group tie is against Bolivia on Sunday.In another Group A match, South Africa beat Bolivia 3-1. Goals from Emile Witbooi, Neo Bohloko and Shaun Els earned 10-player South Africa a superb win. Bafana Bafana were dealt a significant blow when Sive Pama was sent off midway through the first half, but Witbooi soon fired them in front before Bohloko added a second from close range. Bolivia pulled one back through Jesus Maraude's Panenka-style penalty, but Shaun Els’ late breakaway effort put the result beyond doubt.Meanwhile, Japan and Tunisia collected impressive wins while both Argentina and Portugal rallied for hard-fought victories.In Group B, Japan opened a sixth straight U-17 World Cup with 2-0 victory over Morocco. The Asian giants looked to have opened the scoring in the first half when Anthony Motosuna headed home, but he was adjudged to have fouled goalkeeper Chouaib Bellaarouch.They wouldn't be denied for long, though, as Hiroto Asada drove through the heart of the Morocco backline and set up Taiga Seguchi, who unleashed a terrific first-time effort into the far corner. Minato Yoshida thought he'd netted a second soon after, only for play to be pulled back for handball. They would eventually make the game safe in the dying embers, with Daigo Hirashima rifling in from just inside the box.Portugal overcame a sluggish start to thrash New Caledonia 6-1. New Caledonia jumped out to a shock lead when a video review led to a penalty, and Ezekiel Wamowe converted the spot-kick. But Anisio Cabral spearheaded the comeback, equalising via a header and then giving his side the lead early in the second half with an easy finish. Stevan Manuel, Mateus Mide, Mauro Furtado and Jose Neto tacked on goals as well to complete the scoring.In Group C, ten-player Costa Rica claimed a hard-fought 1-1 draw against United Arab Emirates. The game sparked into life just after the half-hour, as Isaac Badilla was sent off for a last-player tackle on Faysal Mohammed.UAE made use of their numerical advantage shortly after the break, as Mayed Adel bundled home a corner. That lead lasted barely three minutes, though, with Yerlan Sosa's centre causing chaos in the UAE box, allowing Nick Bennette to lace home from just beyond the penalty spot.In another Group C match, Senegal and Croatia played out a goalless draw. The Europeans dominated the first half and ought to have taken the lead deep into it. Patrik Horvat saw his shot from the edge of the area parried by Vincent Gomis straight to Jona Benkotic, who cleared the crossbar with the goal gaping. Both pushed in the second period, but neither side could find the breakthrough.In Group D, Argentina squeezed past Belgium 3-2 in an early contender for match of the tournament. Diego Placente's men hit the front through a neat Ramiro Tulian finish, only for Arthur De Kimpe to strike back with a rasping drive.A well-worked Stan Naert goal then gave the Belgians the lead on the hour mark, as Ali Camara squared for the forward to tap in. The game was turned on its head inside four crazy minutes, though, with Facundo Jainikoski netting before fellow substitute Felipe Esquivel drilled in another fine goal. Belgium sub Rene Mitongo then passed up two great chances to level, allowing the South Americans to collect all three points.Tunisia delivered a commanding performance to cruise past Fiji 6-0. The North Africans hit their stride beginning at the half-hour mark, with Wassim Slama beating the goalkeeper at the near post with a clever shot and then a superb strike from Fedi Tayechi.Slama got his second by pouncing on a rebound, followed by a powerful right-footed finish from Anisse Saidi. Saifedin Haj Abdallah made it five with a composed curler from inside the area and Tayechi put on the finishing touches with a strike in the waning minutes.What they said..."When we were one man down, we still kept pushing each other. It’s all about teamwork. For me, it’s a dream come true to be here. I always wanted to reach this stage, and I am chasing my dreams."-Kamohelo Mareletse, South Africa midfielder and player of the match"The team did very well, we managed to hold on despite being a man down and we're ready to keep competing. The next match will be a close contest against Senegal, but we'll compete well".-Nick Bennette, Costa Rica goalscorer"As we expected, it was a tough match where we knew that a single goal could greatly influence the outcome. We managed to score the opener and then add another, which allowed us to control the game in a good way."-Nozomi Hiroyama, Japan coach"The players need to stop thinking about this defeat, even though it's a tough one. We'll make amends against Portugal. We have confidence in these players; they are capable of getting through this group."-Nabi Baha, Morocco coach"We knew it was going to be the most difficult match in the group because Belgium play very well, as well as being physically and technically outstanding. I'm happy for the team because they showed character on two occasions to come back from behind and win."-Diego Placente, Argentina head coach"We had a lot of opportunities and the lack of efficiency made us get to half-time with the game tied. But we kept calm to start strong in the second half and it didn't take long for us to be in front."-Bino Macaes, Portugal coach

Gulf Times
Sport

Lusail International Circuit brings the race to the city: Mall activation to engage fans

In the lead-up to the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix 2025, Lusail International Circuit (LIC) is set to bring the thrill of the race beyond the track with mall activations designed to engage fans of all ages. Motorsport enthusiasts across Doha will have the chance to experience the excitement of Formula 1 first hand through interactive and visually stunning installations.At Place Vendome Mall, ground floor by Paul Cafe, the Qatar GP Village will welcome visitors, from November 2 to 30, during mall operating hours with a variety of interactive experiences free of charge for kids and adults. Fans can test their racing skills in the VR Pit Stop Challenge, compete on F1 simulators, explore hologram boxes, solve racing-themed puzzles, design their own helmets via the “Build Your Helmet” app, and capture memories at dedicated photo booths. The Cheer Wall will allow visitors to celebrate the passion of Formula 1, creating a truly participatory fan experience.Fatima al-Qaedi, Marketing and Communications Manager at Lusail International Circuit, commented, “Our off-track activations are designed to bring the excitement of Formula 1 closer to fans across Doha. We aim to tap into different segments in our activation: education, art, technology, and fun as this is what F1 is all about, and we want to make sure that Doha, and everyone coming to Doha, celebrates this with us. With interactive and immersive racing experiences, these initiatives celebrate the passion for motorsport, making the countdown to the Grand Prix an unforgettable experience for everyone.”Tickets for the Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix 2025 continue to sell rapidly. Fans can still secure limited grandstand and hospitality packages in addition to single day tickets for Friday and Saturday. Friday tickets offer a chance to enjoy opening festivities and the vibrant Fan Zone starred by the iconic British singer, Seal’s performance, while Saturday provides the exclusive Sprint Race with the F2 as support races, and the full 3-day experience promises nonstop racing, entertainment, and fan activities. Tickets can be purchased via Lusail International Circuit’s website at tickets.lcsc.qa.With city and mall activations even running through race weekend, LIC has invited fans to immerse themselves in the world of Formula 1 and experience the thrill, technology, and culture that defines the Qatar Grand Prix.

Gulf Times
Community

Floward partners with Qatar Cancer Society to support Breast Cancer Awareness in Qatar

Floward, the go-to online flowers and gifts delivery destination in MENA and UK, has concluded its annual Pink October campaign in Qatar in collaboration with the Qatar Cancer Society, reaffirming its dedication to supporting breast cancer awareness, education, and patient care.As part of this year’s initiative, 10% of sales from Floward’s exclusive Pink October collection will be donated to the Qatar Cancer Society to support their ongoing programs and awareness campaigns.Beyond donations, Floward organized a series of offline activations across Doha aimed at spreading awareness and showing solidarity with patients, survivors, and their families. In collaboration with Alshareef Holding at Abraj Bay, Floward hosted a flower arrangement workshop for tenants, adorning the venue with elegant floral table arrangements and a flower backdrop to symbolize hope and unity.Floward also joined the Qatar Cancer Society’s main awareness session, where the team distributed single flowers to attendees as a gesture of compassion and encouragement, and later participated in the Relay for Life event with a striking flower installation that celebrated strength and resilience.**media[376849]**In partnership with United Development Company (UDC) and The Pearl International Hospital, Floward supported an awareness session by decorating the space with flower arrangements, creating a ribbon-shaped installation made of flowers, and distributing single flowers to attendees. Additionally, the team took part in a university awareness session at the College of Pharmacy, Qatar University, where flowers were shared with students and faculty in support of the cause.Floward also held internal awareness seminars for its employees, led by healthcare professionals, focusing on the importance of early detection, self-examination, and health education, reinforcing the company’s belief that awareness begins within.Through this year’s Pink October campaign, Floward continues to transform thoughtfulness into meaningful action, standing beside patients, survivors, and organizations leading the fight against breast cancer in Qatar and beyond.Established in 2017, Floward is a full-fledged e-commerce solution that offers prime fresh-cut flowers sourced from the best growers and farmers around the world and arranged locally by a team of florists and designers. Floward also offers cakes, chocolate and perfumes curated by the region’s most exciting designers bundled with its flower arrangements and manages last-mile same-day delivery to ensure the best customer experience.

Gulf Times
Business

Qatar Central Bank, Qatar Airways Privilege Club collaborate to offer benefits to Himyan cardholders

Qatar Central Bank has partnered with Qatar Airways Privilege Club to introduce a more rewarding experience for ‘Himyan’ cardholders, enabling Himyan prepaid and debit cardholders to enjoy Privilege Club benefits and collect Avios when using their Himyan cards.Himyan cardholders can now collect one Avios for every QR8 spent using their cards on online or point-of-sale (POS) transactions.The cardholders will also benefit from card-linked offers, whereby they will collect even more Avios for purchases with linked Himyan cards at participating Privilege Club partner outlets, which include retail, dining, entertainment, lifestyle and more venues across Qatar.This initiative is launched by the Qatar Central Bank to enhance the product proposition of Himyan, the national payment card of Qatar, and aligns with Privilege Club’s strategic objective of providing its members with new avenues to collect Avios as part of their everyday lifestyle.This pioneering first-of-its kind partnership is now available to both existing and new Himyan cardholders of Ahli Bank, AlRayan Bank, Commercial Bank, Doha Bank, Dukhan Bank, Qatar International Islamic Bank, Qatar Islamic Bank, and Qatar National Bank.Commenting on the initiative, HE the Deputy Governor of Qatar Central Bank, Sheikh Ahmed bin Khalid bin Ahmed bin Sultan al-Thani stated: “This initiative reflects the Qatar Central Bank’s commitment to developing the national payments ecosystem and strengthening collaboration with partners across various sectors.“It aligns with the objectives of the Third Financial Sector Strategy of the State of Qatar, supports the digital payments transformation, and further enhances the benefits of the Himyan card as a secure and advanced payment instrument within the State of Qatar”.Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer Badr Mohammed al-Meer, said: “Our collaboration with the Qatar Central Bank reflects Qatar Airways’ commitment to supporting Qatar’s digital and economic transformation. This initiative aligns with the Qatar National Vision 2030 by promoting national innovation and strengthening the country’s financial ecosystem through a home-grown payment solution. We thank the Qatar Central Bank for this forward-thinking initiative, which enables Privilege Club members to earn Avios while contributing to an economy that keeps value within Qatar.”Privilege Club members can redeem the Avios they collect through Himyan card purchases for travel and lifestyle rewards of their choice. With Cash + Avios, they can enjoy flexible partial payments using Avios, benefit from significant discounts on flights, upgrades, extra baggage allowance, holiday packages, and much more.

Gulf Times
Sport

Qatar finishes 4th at the U-17 Handball World Championship, Germany claims the title

Qatar under-17 national handball team concluded its participation in the inaugural edition of the World Cup held in Morocco, finishing in fourth place after losing to Spain 23-35 in the third-place and bronze medal match on Saturday.The match between Qatar and Spain came amid high hopes of achieving a historic feat and claiming the bronze medal, after Qatar had advanced to the semifinals as the best second-placed team in the group stage.Qatar finished runner-up in Group B, earning two victories against Tunisia (38-30) and South Korea (45-24), and suffering one loss against Spain (23-41).In the semifinals, Qatar lost to Germany (22-39), which led them to play the third-place match against Spain. Despite the score difference, the Qatari players delivered a strong performance and showed great fighting spirit.Reaching the semifinals of the tournament marks a continuation of the remarkable international successes achieved by Qatari handball at various levels, most notably the silver medal won at the World Men's Handball Championship held in Doha in 2015. This achievement reflects the ongoing development of Qatar's youth programs and the national team's consistent presence among the top competitors worldwide.As for the final match, it brought together the Egyptian and German teams, and ended with Germany's victory (44-43) after extra time, during which the Germans secured the win following a marathon match full of dramatic turns.Germany led the first half (18-17) before Egypt rallied in the second half and came close to victory. However, the Germans scored an equalizer in the final seconds, then clinched the title of the inaugural edition of the championship in extra time.

Zaid Faisal Ktit
Sport

Qatar eye strong start against Italy in U-17 World Cup opener

Hosts Qatar will look to make a strong impression when they kick off their FIFA U-17 World Cup campaign against Italy Monday at Aspire Zone. Drawn in Group A, the other teams Qatar will face are South Africa and Bolivia. Making their eighth appearance in the competition, the young Maroons are determined to build on their best-ever finish — fourth place in 1991 — under the guidance of coach Alvaro Mejia. Zaid Faisal Ktit, a talented all-round centre-forward known for his intelligent movement and composed finishing, will be one of Qatar’s key players as the hosts aim for a deep run in the tournament. After the training session Saturday, Ktit said: “Italy are a strong team but all teams in this tournament will be tough. Of course, we will have to play well and we are looking forward to it.” Tameem al-Qadi, the Al Sadd youngster, added: “We will play a great game. Italy is a tough team, but there are no weak teams in the World Cup. It’s a proud moment for us to represent our country on home soil, and we will do our best in all the matches.” Meanwhile, Brazil coach Eduardo ‘Dudu’ Patetuci praised the organisation and atmosphere in Doha, saying: “The atmosphere here in Qatar is great, the environment is wonderful, and we’re very happy to be here. It’s going to be a beautiful World Cup.” Saudi Arabia manager Abdulwahab Alharbi expressed confidence in his side’s preparation, adding: “The team has been preparing for two years, and in the last three months, we’ve seen major improvement. InshaAllah, they will do well.”

Al Shamal’s Allex Collado (right) celebrates after scoring one of his two goals against Umm Salal in the Qatar Stars League at the Al Khor Stadium.
Sport

Al Shamal thrash Umm Salal to move to second spot in Qatar Stars League

Al Shamal handed Umm Salal a 5-0 thrashing in the Qatar Stars League at the Al Khor Stadium Saturday to go second in the table behind leaders Al Gharafa.Their fifth win of the league took Al Shamal’s tally to 17 points to be second in the standings, ahead of Qatar SC on goal difference. Umm Salal with a sixth loss are in 11th with 6 points while Al Gharafa are at the top with 19 points.Umm Salal were also reduced to 10-man in the 88th minute when Diyab Haroon Taha was sent off for a foul against Baghdad Bounedjah.In what a forgettable day for them, Umm Salal also suffered from two goalkeeping errors at the start which saw Al Shamal go up with a 2-0 lead before they added three more to the scoreline. Al Shamal led 3-0 at half time.Alex Collado (11th & 54th minutes), Issoufou Dayo – Own Goal (18th minute), Badghdad Bounedjah (38th minute), and Moufak Awad (90th minute) contributed the goals.Umm Salal goalkeeper Jehad Mohammad Hudib had a horror when a powerful Collado kick went through his hands and legs. Seven minutes later, there was more trouble as Hudib failed to read a back pass from Dayo, getting beaten to his right as the ball rolled into the net. Bounedjah added a third scoring from in front of the goal off a fine assist from Collado.In the second half, Collado struck again from top of the box with his left-footer finding the left corner of the net. Just ahead of added time, a Bounedjah free kick was blocked by a leaping Hudib but Moufak Awad lunged forward to kick the ball in to complete a 5-0 rout. On a day when nothing seemed to go right for Umm Salal, a second half free kick also hit the right post before falling away in what was the only glimmer of hope.Ahli beat SailiyaEarlier at the Grand Hamad Stadium, Al Ahli scored a 2-1 win over Al Sailiya to move to 9th spot. Al Sailiya with 6 points are in tenth.Julian Draxler scored a brace (27th & 90 +1 minute - penalty) to bounce Al Ahli back to winning ways while Al Sailiya’s only goal was scored by Youssef Sinana (45 + 3 minute) via a penalty.Draxler’s made a stunning right-footed shot from the right side of the box to open the scoring, while Al Sailiya’s Sinana restored parity via a spot kick just before half time after Al Ahli’s Hilal Mohammed handled the ball in the danger area. With the match heading for a draw, Draxler, once again, made the difference as he scored from the spot at the stroke of regulation time to give The Brigadiers an important victory.

Gulf Times
Qatar

Qatar Charity supports vulnerable families in Nigeria

Qatar Charity in co-operation with Nigeria’s Katsina State Government, has implemented a variety of income-generating projects, economically empowering 160 individuals, including women, orphans, and vulnerable groups.The initiative aims to restore dignity, create opportunities, and enable beneficiaries to achieve economic independence. The implementation of these projects coincides with the upcoming Second World Summit for Social Development, scheduled to take place in Doha from November 4 to 6. The summit aims to reaffirm global commitment to social development, address existing gaps, accelerate efforts to eradicate poverty, promote full employment and decent work, and achieve social inclusion.The income-generating projects included the distribution of 100 sewing machines, 20 passenger tricycles, 20 cargo tricycles, and 20 grinding machines, benefiting individuals from across the state.Beneficiaries were nominated by the state government and verified by Qatar Charity using a rigorous process that prioritised vulnerability, business skills, and readiness. Speaking at the ceremony, Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, described the initiative as more than material support, emphasising its role in restoring dignity and creating opportunities for vulnerable citizens. He urged beneficiaries to use the items wisely to start small businesses, generate income, support their families, and improve their livelihoods through hard work and discipline.“The empowerment items are more than material support – they are tools for transformation and steps toward economic independence,” governor Radda stated. Governor Radda acknowledged Qatar Charity Nigeria’s critical role in humanitarian work across Katsina State and Nigeria. “Your work is planting seeds of change, and we are deeply grateful,” he said, pledging to expand such initiatives to empower every orphan, widow, and vulnerable person in the state.Assem Abu al-Shaer, country director of Qatar Charity’s Nigeria office, emphasised the transformative impact of the empowerment items, noting that each piece of equipment will help beneficiaries generate income and create opportunities for others.

Gulf Times
Qatar

Qatar Calendar presents diverse November line-up of activities

The November 2025 edition of Qatar Calendar features a diverse line-up of international sporting events, major exhibitions, live performances and community festivals. From the FIFA U-17 World Cup and Formula 1 to Geekdom and the Doha Film Festival, the month celebrates Qatar’s mix of sport, culture and creativity through more than two dozen events across the country. This month Qatar will host the FIFA U-17 World Cup 2025 from Nov 3 to 27 across multiple stadiums, marking the country’s third FIFA tournament. In addition, the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Grand Prix 2025 returns to Lusail International Circuit from Nov 28 to 30, complemented by post-race concerts featuring global music icon Seal (Nov 28) and legendary rock band Metallica (Nov 30). Motorsport and automotive enthusiasts can also look forward to The Grand Auto Show 2025 at Qatar National Convention Centre from Nov 20 to 22, and the Qatar Luxury Classic Cars Contest and Exhibition from Nov 19 to 23 at The Pearl’s Medina Central. Lusail Marina Corniche will also host the DBRQ 1st International Dragon Boat Tournament from Nov 21 to 23, welcoming international teams in a celebration of teamwork and sport. For martial art fans, UFC Fight Night makes its Qatar debut on Nov 22 at Ali Bin Hamad Al Attiyah Arena, marking the first-ever appearance of the iconic Octagon in Doha. Additional sporting highlights this month include the QTRI Katara Aquabike & Aquathlon on Nov 8 at Katara, the Theeb Ultra Marathon on Nov 21–22 in Zekreet, and the Colorway Marathon at Aspire Park on Nov 28. Entertainment takes centre stage with a packed line-up of concerts and shows. Bollywood superstar Salman Khan headlines the Da-Bangg Tour at Asian Town Amphitheatre on Nov 14. On Nov 28, Lebanese legend Najwa Karam lights up Al Mayassa Theatre at QNCC with a concert featuring her most beloved hits. On the comedy front, Alaa El Sheikh brings his stand-up special High on Pain to U Venue Theatre on Nov 22. From Nov 1 to January 31, Winter in Msheireb transforms Msheireb Downtown Doha into a festive destination filled with lights, music and seasonal cheer. Geekdom 2025, Qatar’s largest pop culture gathering, runs from Nov 18 to 22 at Lusail Boulevard, while Tunisian Nights in Doha, Nov 27-28, brings North African rhythms to Souq Waqif. Meanwhile, Carbone Beach returns to Al Maha Island from Nov 28 to 30 with its exclusive lifestyle showcase. Two heritage-driven events headline early November. The Al Shaqab International Arabian Horse Show takes place from Nov 5 to 8 at the Al Shaqab Outdoor Longines Arena, while the Qatar Boat Show 2025 at Old Doha Port will showcase marine craftsmanship and design over the same dates. From Nov 6 to 10, Mafareed Challenge Festival 2025 gathers camel owners from across the GCC for competitions and cultural displays in Al Shahaniya. At Katara Cultural Village, Doha Film Festival 2025 runs from Nov 20 to 28, offering screenings, workshops and networking for global and regional talent. Rounding out the month, Brouq 2026 launches in Zekreet from Nov 26, offering a luxury desert retreat with glamping, dining and cultural activities until Jan 17. Coffee enthusiasts can explore the world of beans, brews and baristas at Tegahwa International Coffee Exhibition, running from Nov 6 to 14 at Galleria AlHazm. Qatar Sustainability Week kicks off the month from Nov 1 to 8, marking its 10th edition with nationwide environmental activations led by Earthna. This month will also see tourism and innovation take the spotlight with three key forums. Qatar Travel Mart 2025 will be held at DECC from Nov 24 to 26, convening travel leaders, airlines, DMCs, and hospitality providers. WISE 12 Summit returns to QNCC (Nov 24-25), exploring the theme “Humanity.io” and the intersection of values and technology in education. Meanwhile, MWC Doha 2025, the Middle East debut of the iconic Mobile World Congress, will take place on Nov 25-26 at Doha Exhibition & Conference Center (DECC), uniting tech and telecom leaders under the themes of AI Nexus, Intelligent Economies and Connected Industries.

Gulf Times
Qatar

Qatar Shell’s NXplorers Pro programme inspires innovation with HBKU students

As part of Qatar Shell’s Tafawoq programme, a group of energetic students from Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) and Education City campuses came together to experience the transformative journey of the Shell NXplorers Pro programme.NXplorers Pro is Shell’s advanced educational programme to equip future leaders with practical tools for solving complex global challenges. It blends systems thinking, scenario planning and theory of change, collectively known as NXthinking, to help participants explore problems, envision sustainable futures and develop actionable solutions.Hosted at HBKU, the NXplorers Pro programme challenged students to tackle global issues, imagine bold futures and develop actionable solutions for sustainable impact. Their energy and creativity highlighted the power of experiential learning to shape future changemakers.Dr Ala al-Fuqaha, associate provost, Teaching and Learning from HBKU, said: “At HBKU, we are proud to continue our well-established collaboration with Qatar Shell and its Tafawoq programme, of which we are a founding partner. NXplorers Pro aligns with our commitment to empowering the next generation of problem-solvers as they prepare to address critical challenges of our times. The enthusiasm and creativity demonstrated by our students reaffirm the importance of such experiential learning opportunities.”Bader al-Jaidah, director of Tafawoq, said: “By engaging with universities, we are building a bridge that helps students gain a clearer understanding of how industry operates before they begin their professional journeys. Our enduring partnership with HBKU in Qatar highlights the transformative power of collaboration in shaping a resilient and sustainable future.”Pia Ceasar, a graduate student at HBKU, who participated in the programme shared: “What I found most impressive about the programme was how seamlessly it combined deep insight with practical application. The experience sharpened my critical thinking and equipped me with powerful frameworks and tools to structure ideas and navigate complex challenges in both professional and personal contexts.”Tafawoq is a centre of excellence in project management, dedicated to developing professionals in Qatar and the wider region for major investment projects that support the Qatar National Vision 2030.

Gulf Times
Qatar

Over 700 children join 'Little Employee' initiative across national institutions

More than 700 students took part in Qatar Career Development Center's (QCDC) 'Little Employee' initiative during this week's school mid-term break, joining their parents and relatives at workplaces across the country, Qatar Career Development Centre (QCDC) has announced in a statement.Organised by QCDC, founded by Qatar Foundation (QF), 'Little Employee' enables children aged 7-15 to spend a full working day in real-world environments alongside parental role models.This initiative builds early career awareness and strengthening family engagement in career conversations. It is designed with flexible scheduling, allowing families and institutions to make the most of both school breaks and regular workdays.This week's surge signals national momentum to use school breaks for structured career exploration, building curiosity, transferable skills, and early informed choices in support of Qatar's human-capital agenda. After engaging 500 children in 2024, participation has more than doubled in 2025, reflecting stronger public and institutional recognition of the initiative's value."This week's turnout shows what is possible when families, institutions, and the wider community invest in our children," said Saad Abdulla al-Kharji, Executive Director of QCDC. "By opening their doors during the mid-term break, partners across government, media, finance, education, and civil society provided meaningful, age-appropriate exposure to the world of work. They are helping turn education into competence and build a future-ready workforce aligned with Qatar National Vision 2030. We thank all participating entities for championing early career development and community partnership," he added.Now in its fifth edition, 'Little Employee' offers streamlined pathways for families and employers. QCDC provides interactive workshops and step-by-step guides to structure the day and embed the initiative into CSR and youth-engagement plans. QCDC calls on companies, government and semi-government entities, and NGOs to host additional days this period and in upcoming breaks.Organizations and parents/guardians can enroll children by visiting QCDC's official website.