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Qatar Foundation’s (QF) Lawh Wa Qalam: M F Husain Museum, set to open on November 28, will be the newest addition to Education City’s vibrant arts scene. Dedicated to the life and work of the renowned Maqbool Fida Husain, the museum will bring the pioneering modern artist’s creativity to life through multimedia storytelling and diverse art forms including paintings, films, tapestry, and photography.**media[380673]**Seeroo Fi Al Ardh – Husain’s final masterpiece, opened at Education City in 2019 – will now form part of Lawh Wa Qalam: M F Husain Museum. It highlights the progress of humanity, and its inclination to utilise the surrounding resources to achieve its goals.Alongside Lawh Wa Qalam: M F Husain Museum, QF has over 100 artworks within its portfolio of public art, all open for everyone to experience and enjoy.Here are other inspiring artworks, installations, and places at Education City where you can explore art, culture, and creativity: Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art is dedicated to modern and contemporary art of the Arab world. Currently celebrating its 15-year anniversary, exhibitions include we refuse_d, which sees artists explore tensions between resilience and action.**media[380670]**Al Azzm is a sculpture within Education City which symbolises the determination of Qatari women, while also embodying Qatari culture and traditions and the resilience of the nation.Come Together, a public art installation designed by South Korean artist Choi Jeong Hwa, pays tribute to Qatar’s preparations for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. The structure, resembling a dandelion, is made up of workers’ helmets, mirror balls, and traditional Qatari kitchenware.The Media Majlis at Northwestern University in Qatar, a QF partner university, is the first museum in the Arab world dedicated to discussing and examining the content of media, journalism, and communication.Georgetown University in Qatar, a QF partner university, houses a panel of the Berlin Wall, which was brought to the country by Qatar Museums under the Qatar-Germany 2017 Year of Culture, as part of its Public Art Programme. The panel, reinforced with steel bars, is covered in spray painted graffiti that conveys messages of hope, freedom, and change.Damien Hirst’s The Miraculous Journey, which stands outside QF’s women’s and children’s hospital Sidra Medicine, is a series of 14 monumental bronze sculptures that chronicle the gestation of a foetus inside a uterus, from conception to birth.**media[380672]**Louise Bourgeois’ 1999 Maman, housed in Qatar National Convention Centre, is a bronze, stainless steel, and marble sculpture which depicts a spider, and – standing at over 30ft high and over 33ft wide - is among the largest sculptures in the world.

As global efforts intensify to combat climate change, Qatar Foundation continues to lead the charge in embedding sustainability into the nation’s education, research, and community life. In an exclusive interview with *Gulf Times, Dr Nawal Al Sulaiti, Sustainability Manager at Qatar Foundation, discusses how QF is advancing environmental stewardship and shaping a sustainable future for Qatar, one that aligns seamlessly with the Qatar National Vision 2030. How does Qatar Foundation’s approach to sustainability align with the broader objectives of Qatar National Vision 2030? Dr Al Sulaiti: Qatar Foundation’s sustainability approach is deeply aligned with the Qatar National Vision 2030, particularly its pillars of environmental development and human development. QF integrates sustainability across its operations, education, and community life, not as a separate goal, but as a way of living and working. **media[380215]** Our initiatives focus on building environmental awareness, reducing carbon footprint, promoting research and innovation, and nurturing a culture of responsibility among the community. In this way, we contribute directly to the national goal of balancing economic growth with environmental preservation for future generations. Could you highlight some of the key sustainability achievements within Education City that have had a measurable impact? Dr Al Sulaiti: Education City serves as a living model of sustainable urban development. Some notable achievements include its green building standards, with many buildings across Education City being LEED-certified, demonstrating energy and water efficiency. In addition, sustainable mobility has been enhanced through the introduction of the Education City Tram, which significantly reduces carbon emissions by providing a clean, electric transportation alternative. This system, the first battery-operated tram charged by pantographs, has already reduced gas emissions by 10% and air pollution by 20%. It serves more than 100,000 passengers a month and has surpassed four million journeys since launch. **media[380216]** Education City has also implemented recycling and waste reduction programs, including waste segregation, composting of organic material, and resource reuse, leading to a measurable decrease in landfill waste. Furthermore, water and energy optimization initiatives, such as smart irrigation systems and renewable energy projects, have reduced consumption across facilities. Collectively, these efforts demonstrate tangible progress toward a greener campus and community. QF’s sustainability commitment has even earned recognition as a ‘Climate Conscious’ organisation by South Pole, and its carbon-neutral initiatives set a regional benchmark. What role does innovation play in QF’s efforts to create a more sustainable and environmentally conscious community? Dr Al Sulaiti: Innovation is at the heart of QF’s sustainability strategy. Through our research institutes, universities, and community programs, we drive innovative solutions to environmental challenges, from water and energy management to sustainable food systems. **media[380217]** For example, partnerships with the Qatar Environment and Energy Research Institute (QEERI) have enabled the piloting of renewable technologies and advanced environmental monitoring systems across Education City. This includes deploying multiple air-quality stations to track gas levels and develop mitigation measures that help reduce CO₂ emissions, particularly in parking areas. Similarly, community-driven initiatives such as urban farming projects, including QF’s Park and Plant program, aim to densify and beautify Education City while engaging the community in greening efforts, demonstrating how creativity can translate into everyday sustainable practices. Beyond Education City, QF’s innovation hubs are achieving global impact. Projects such as the Solar Carbon Black Project, developed with Texas A&M University at Qatar and Fraunhofer IWS, are creating clean industrial processes that produce high-grade carbon without greenhouse gas emissions. The Distributed Solar Smart-Grid System, meanwhile, enables real-time monitoring and optimisation of solar energy generation across QF facilities, enhancing efficiency and resilience. How do initiatives like the micro farms contribute to fostering environmental awareness and community engagement? Dr Al Sulaiti: The micro farms are a practical example of sustainability in action. They connect students, staff, and the wider community with nature and local food systems. Through hands-on participation, individuals learn about composting, water conservation, and sustainable food production. These spaces foster environmental awareness, collaboration, and a sense of shared responsibility, inspiring behavioral change by showing that sustainability begins with small, everyday actions that collectively make a big difference. **media[380218]** Teaching students about planting and home composting in the micro farm greenhouse helps them develop practical skills that they can share with their families and friends. Moreover, the outdoor community garden, where families enjoy growing their own vegetables and donating a portion to families in need, nurtures social responsibility, empathy, and community collaboration. In what ways is QF working to instill sustainability values among students, researchers, and residents within Education City? Dr Al Sulaiti: QF integrates sustainability into the very fabric of learning and campus life. For students, environmental education is embedded into both curricula and extracurricular activities, nurturing future leaders who value responsible living. For researchers, QF supports projects addressing local and global sustainability challenges, from energy and water management to biodiversity conservation. For residents, initiatives such as green living workshops, recycling campaigns, and community gardens engage families and residents in sustainable practices. A key example is Green Island, Qatar’s first and only sustainability education hub. It encompasses all aspects of sustainability, from recycling and upcycling (in partnership with Ashghal), to solar energy (with Qatar Energy), water and energy conservation (with Kahramaa), and hydroponic farming (with Agrico). **media[380219]** This project serves as a national showcase of Qatar’s green efforts and a living example of environmental collaboration in action. It also acts as a catalyst for behavioral change by providing hands-on workshops that empower individuals to adopt sustainable practices in their daily lives. How does QF collaborate with partners or local organisations to advance sustainability across Qatar? Dr Al Sulaiti: Collaboration is central to our impact. QF works with government entities, academic institutions, private companies, and community organisations to share expertise and scale sustainability solutions. Partnerships with the Ministry of Municipality, Ministry of Environment, Ministry of Education, Ehsan, Al Shafallah Center, and others help align national efforts toward sustainable living. Together, we promote best practices in green infrastructure, renewable energy, and environmental education, amplifying QF’s impact beyond Education City. **media[380220]** QF also partners internationally through initiatives like the Earthna Center for a Sustainable Future, which co-developed Qatar’s National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (2025–2035) and restored 40 hectares of mangroves across the country. Earthna’s 2025 Summit brought together over 15,000 participants from 150 countries, reinforcing Qatar’s leadership in sustainability for arid environments. Looking ahead, what are QF’s main priorities or upcoming projects aimed at reducing environmental impact or promoting green living? Dr Al Sulaiti: Looking forward, QF is focusing on expanding circular economy initiatives, enhancing renewable energy integration, and promoting sustainable food systems. Upcoming projects include increasing the use of solar energy across facilities, expanding green mobility through electric vehicles and improved cycling infrastructure, and developing new community engagement programs that encourage waste reduction and resource sharing. **media[380221]** Our flagship project, Green Island, exemplifies QF’s circular economy approach. Spanning over 8,000 square meters, it is Qatar’s first community-centric recycling hub and a national model for sustainability education. Built from 95 repurposed shipping containers and partially powered by 100kW of on-site solar energy, it includes six recycling streams, for paper, plastic, aluminum, e-waste, batteries, and organic waste, as well as vertical farms capable of producing 15 tons of vegetables annually for local consumption. It also features research labs, educational exhibits, and a 3D printing lab that uses recycled materials. Through entities like QEERI, QF continues to pioneer renewable energy solutions, including the Distributed Solar Smart-Grid System that enables real-time solar monitoring and optimisation, and collaborative projects such as the Solar Carbon Black Project, which converts natural gas into high-grade carbon without greenhouse gas emissions. **media[380222]** In parallel, Earthna, QF’s policy and advocacy platform for sustainability, is implementing Qatar’s National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (2025–2035) and leading large-scale restoration of over 40 hectares of mangroves, reinforcing Qatar’s role as a leader in sustainability for hot and arid environments. Ultimately, QF’s future vision is to build a carbon-neutral, resource-efficient Education City that serves as a living laboratory for sustainable innovation, a model that aligns with Qatar’s ambition to build a sustainable, post-hydrocarbon future.

The World Innovation Summit for Education (WISE), an initiative of Qatar Foundation, has announced its lineup of speakers for the WISE 12 Summit, taking place on November 24–25 at the Qatar National Convention Centre under the theme ‘Humanity.io: Human Values at the Heart of Education.’This year’s edition will convene over 200 local and international speakers representing academia, technology, policy, and social impact, united by a shared commitment to reimagine education through empathy, equity, and human purpose. Building on the momentum of the previous summit, WISE 12 will explore how human values can remain at the core of learning systems in an era rapidly transformed by Artificial Intelligence and technological acceleration.The summit’s diverse roster of speakers includes Laila Lalami, award-winning author and novelist celebrated for her powerful explorations of identity and belonging; Mo Gawdat, bestselling author and former chief business officer of Google X recognised for his influential work on AI, happiness and innovation; and Nobel Laureate and MIT Professor Dr Abhijit Banerjee, whose research has transformed global understanding of education and poverty reduction.Continuing this renowned line-up, WISE 12 will also welcome Anousheh Ansari, space explorer and CEO of XPRIZE Foundation, who advocates for inclusive innovation and STEM access; Dr Michael Fung, executive director of Singapore Institute of technology; Fahad Hamad Hassan al-Sulaiti, director general of the Qatar Fund for Development; Omar al-Shogre, director for Detainee Affairs at the Syrian Emergency Task Force and advocate for education access in conflict zones; and Lady Mariéme Jamme, founder of iamtheCODE and a global champion for digital literacy for girls across Africa, among others.With over 60 core sessions including plenaries, research dialogues, and interactive masterclasses, WISE 12 will provide a platform to address how education can evolve without losing its humanity. The summit will explore key questions around ethics in AI, equitable access to quality learning, redefining success and well-being in education, and the role of collaboration across sectors.These questions will be examined across five interconnected thematic tracks: ‘Putting Human Needs at the Heart of Education,’ ‘Realizing the Promise of Progressive Education,’ ‘Navigating the Skills Revolution in Higher Education and Lifelong Learning,’ ‘Catalyzing Multi-Sectoral Systems Change to Transform Education,’ and ‘Centering Education towards Economic Opportunities and Community Resilience.’“WISE 12 is a space where the global conversation on education, technology, and humanity truly converges,” said Stavros N Yiannouka, CEO of WISE. “We are at a defining moment for education systems worldwide. As artificial intelligence and emerging technologies accelerate, it becomes vital to ensure that innovation amplifies human potential rather than replaces it. This summit will gather voices who are not only transforming education but re-centering it on the very values that make us human.”

Al Shaqab, a member of Qatar Foundation, has announced the launch of the second edition of the Al Shaqab League, the premier showjumping competition that aims to develop young equestrian talent, refine the skills of Qatar’s riders, and strengthen the nation’s position on the international equestrian stage.The Al Shaqab League serves as a unique platform that combines sporting development with world-class competition, providing riders of all levels — from juniors and amateurs to professionals — with the opportunity to gain experience and grow within a professional and inspiring environment.Mohammed Jaber al-Khayareen, Director of the Equine Education Department, stated: “The Al Shaqab League reflects our commitment to supporting emerging riders and empowering them to achieve their dreams in the world of equestrian sport. This championship serves as a true bridge between local development and global ambition, embodying Al Shaqab’s vision of building a new generation of champions.”The League will take place at the Longines Arena at Al Shaqab across four main rounds:Round 1 (powered by Dreama) – November 14–15,Round 2 – December 26–27,Round 3 – April 17–18,and the Final Round – May 21–23, 2026.In its second season, the Al Shaqab League continues to uphold the values of excellence, empowerment, and progress — from Doha to the world — embodying the spirit of equestrianism as an integral part of Qatar’s cultural and sporting identity.

Educate A Child programme under Education Above All (EAA) Foundation has provided quality education for over 14.5mn out-of-school children so far, disclosed a senior official of the organisation.“We have enrolled over 14.5mn out-of-school children into quality primary education in over 50 countries. The work continues and lots and lots of people are interested in us. And we work with over 50 organisations globally,” Mary Joy Pigozzi, chief education officer, EAA told Gulf Times.Pigozzi was interacting with Gulf Times on the sidelines of the ongoing Second World Summit for Social Development (WSSD2) where EAA is showcasing its activities and taking part in several events of the summit.According to the official, EAA has awarded more than 10,500 scholarships to disadvantaged youth to enable their pursuit of higher education and equipped nearly 4mn youth with skills and economic opportunities for employment since it was founded in 2012 by Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser.“I think what is good about having been around for more than a decade is that people know that there is one programme which is Educate A Child that focuses specifically on out-of-school children. We have that unified and unitary focus,” noted the official.The official said that EAA has just started a new strategy. She explained: “What we are trying to do now is to try to link our different programmes a little more coherently. So we are looking to work in some countries where more than one programme will be working together. And we will be working in unison. So that is a slightly different approach than we have had in the past.“The point of the new unified approach is to work with countries to support greater impact at the national level through our work across different levels of education to employment,” continued, Pigozzi.She noted that EAA works with various organisations of the UN and have many partnerships with UN agencies such as Unicef, Unesco as well as UNDP.“I think we will continue to work with them in various fields. And as we look at the relationships between education and other sectors, we are also likely to be involved with organisations such as World Food Programme,“ highlighted Pigozzi.The chief education officer said that the EAA has been providing support for the families in terms of income generation through initiatives such as setting up small enterprises as it will help the families and enable them to support their children’s education.Pigozzi stated that the major challenges in providing education to the out of school children are related to the economic factors. “It is poverty and it has many faces. There are many ways that it can be overcome. There are certainly challenges but there are also many opportunities.“Among the opportunities that are encouraging are the engagement of ministries in making more flexible education systems and the engagement of communities and families,” highlighted the official.EAA will hold a session Thursday at the summit on the role of education as a key to social development. “The real focus is how education is a significant key to sustainable development. Education is the real foundation because what is realised through education is not just going to school but learning how to live,” added Pigozzi.

Season 17 of Qatar Foundation’s (QF) Stars of Science concluded with Laid Dardabou, a bright scientific mind from Algeria, crowned the Top Arab Innovator. In a moment of celebration, Khalid Aljumaily announced Dardabou’s victory with ‘ViDa’, a smartwatch-integrated system that estimates Vitamin D levels and helps users take preventive action before mental health symptoms arise. Dardabou’s invention impressed judges for its potential to blend biotechnology with emotional well-being, addressing a global challenge through accessible, everyday technology. Upon being named the winner, Dardabou said: “This win is deeply personal. It began with someone I love - and it became my mission to make sure others never feel helpless in the same way. Stars of Science gave me the courage to believe that compassion and science together can save lives. This award isn’t the end, it’s a beginning.” Second place was awarded to Razan Salem Bahabri, from Saudi Arabia, for her project ‘Teleab’, a wearable rehabilitation gaming system that turns physical therapy into an interactive, data-driven experience. Bahabri’s innovation empowers patients to recover through play while enabling doctors to monitor progress remotely. Her project represents a leap forward in digital health, offering a compassionate and accessible solution for home-based recovery. Qatar Science & Technology Park (QSTP) president Rama Chakaki congratulated the finalists, saying: “Each of this season’s innovators has shown us the true power of purpose-driven science. Their ideas merge empathy, creativity, and impact - and that’s exactly the kind of innovation the world needs right now. At QSTP, we’re proud to support Stars of Science as it continues to transform ideas into solutions that can improve lives, inspire the next generation, and strengthen the region’s innovation ecosystem.”

Qatar Foundation (QF)’s Ability Friendly programme, under Pre-University Education, organised a two-day swimming competition aimed at promoting inclusion through sport and empowering people with disabilities.The competition brought together around 70 participants and their families as part of an initiative that reflects Ability Friendly programme and its commitment to providing sports and recreational activities that offer participants equal opportunities to showcase their skills and build self-confidence.The event was sponsored by Sasol, reaffirming its commitment to empowering people with disabilities.The partnership with the QF aims to promote sports as a platform for rehabilitation, empowerment, and community inclusion.“At Sasol, we believe that true progress is measured not only by innovation and growth, but by how inclusive and equitable our communities become,” said Sasol vice-president (Qatar Country Management) Lourens Jacobs.“Through our long-standing collaboration with Qatar Foundation and our Accessible Qatar initiative, we continue to champion opportunities that empower every individual to participate fully and equally in society,” he said. “This Ability Friendly Swimming Competition reflects a shared belief that when barriers are removed, talent, courage, and determination shine through.”Jacobs emphasised that sport serves as a universal language, one that celebrates ability, strengthens communities, and inspires change.He highlighted that the athletes competing in the event demonstrate that inclusion is not about accommodation, but about creating environments where everyone can excel.Aisha Jassim al-Ali, the mother of Jassim al-Sulaiti, one of the participants with autism, said: “For Jassim, swimming has become a source of confidence and independence. He joined the Ability Friendly programme eight years ago, and since then, we’ve witnessed a remarkable transformation in his personality, one that has had a positive impact on his daily life, behaviour, and self-confidence.”“The Ability Friendly programme is a true outlet for our children,” she said. “It’s no longer just about playing sports for recreation, but about preparing champions who can compete in local tournaments.”“Today, I see Jassim competing alongside his peers with confidence and pride,” al-Ali added.

The US James Foley Foundation has awarded HE the Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dr Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh al-Khulaifi, the 2026 American “Hostage Freedom Award”. In a statement published on its official website, the Foundation stated that “His Excellency, in his capacity as Chief Negotiator, played a decisive role in securing the release of Americans held hostage in Afghanistan, Iran, Gaza, and Venezuela.”The Foundation noted that his expertise contributes to opening channels of dialogue when all other paths are blocked, building bridges of trust, and guiding negotiation tracks in the most challenging cases.The American Foundation confirmed that HE Dr al-Khulaifi succeeded in finding means of communication and humanitarian solutions in cases where the US lacked formal relations. It added, “His Excellency’s work embodies the role played by the State of Qatar as a trusted mediator and affirms the strength of diplomacy in serving peace and preserving human dignity.”

Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, attended the Qatar Foundation Annual Alumni Forum 2025, held under the theme of ‘Togetherness’, as it celebrated the achievements and impact of those who have graduated from a unique ecosystem of education, and the enduring ties between them.Taking place in the year that marks the 30th anniversary of Qatar Foundation (QF), the event was also attended by ministers and dignitaries, as it brought together over 450 graduates from QF’s Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), its seven partner universities, and its schools to build connections – and to share stories, experiences, and the pride and purpose that comes from being an alumna or alumnus of QF.As QF marks its 30th anniversary, the annual gathering brought together members of its 19,000-strong global alumni community to reconnect, network, and share their storiesThe 2025 edition of the forum marked the inaugural presentation of the QF Alumni Awards, established to honour QF alumni who have made significant contributions to society through their dedication to social responsibility and civic engagement. The awards – divided into four categories, and designed by Othman Khunji, a graduate of QF partner university Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar – were presented by Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser.Her Highness said: “We gather today, as we do every year, to renew the commitment and the social contract that has united us from the beginning — to remain one family, committed to carrying QF’s mission forward: building a society armed with knowledge, guided by values, and driven by excellence and global competition.“This mission is a shared responsibility between the Foundation and all its alumni. In this spirit, the Alumni Forum presents awards for excellence and mentorship in recognition of the dedication and achievements you have made throughout your professional journey.”She congratulated the awardees, saying: “But our true reward is you. With your determination, authenticity, and unwavering loyalty that truly makes a difference, you continue to be our source of inspiration.”Recipients of the Legacy Awards for senior graduates, awarded to those whose graduation was 10 or more years ago, were HEC Paris, Doha graduate Hamad al-Hajri, and Mouhamed Yazan Abou-Ismail, who graduated from Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar.The Rising Star Awards for junior graduates, given to those who graduated up to five years ago, were presented to Dr. Abdulrahman al-Subaiey, a graduate of Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar (CMU-Q) and HBKU, and Mariam al-Dhubhani, a graduate of Northwestern University in Qatar as well as UCL Qatar, a QF partner university between 2010 and 2020.Meanwhile, the Ambassador Awards, recognising international impact, were awarded to Sheikha Alanoud al-Thani, who graduated from both Qatar Academy Doha – part of Qatar Foundation’s Pre-University Education – and HEC Paris, Doha; and to Oweis al-Salahi, who graduated from Northwestern Qatar. The Mentorship Awards, honouring alumni who have provided outstanding guidance to others, were presented to CMU-Q graduate Asma Aljefairi and HEC Paris, Doha graduate Salman Shaban.As part of the forum – sponsored by the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, Snoonu, Huawei, and Alfardan Group – a panel discussion titled ‘The Bridge Between Impact and the Future’ featured a diverse group of alumni from across QF’s educational landscape, reflecting on the evolving role of graduates in shaping Qatar’s future.The forum also hosted three interactive workshops ahead of the ceremony – focusing on employment opportunities in a diversifying economy, upskilling and reskilling in the digital landscape, and careers in Qatar’s health sector – with each seeing distinguished alumni and guest speakers share their insights.And the Impact Zone celebrated the accomplishments and dedication of QF graduates, highlighting their leadership, community engagement, and successful collaborations among their fellow QF alumni; while a podcast lounge allowed alumni to share personal stories and achievements, and a digital connection wall enabled real-time engagement between graduates who are bonded by their lasting connection to QF.Francisco Marmolejo, President of Higher Education and Education Advisor, QF, said: “As we commemorate the 30th anniversary of Qatar Foundation, the opportunity to engage with the alumni of the various institutions that comprise Education City’s ecosystem serves as a profound reminder of their pivotal role in advancing the development of Qatar.“By acting as vital bridges between academia and society, our alumni exemplify the transformation of knowledge into purposeful action. Through their leadership and influence across the spheres of business, government, and civil society, QF alumni embody the principles of innovation, integrity, and civic responsibility – contributing to the creation of sustainable solutions that foster progress both locally and globally.”Over 19,000 students have graduated from QF’s schools and universities over the decades, equipped to be leaders, change-makers, and active social citizens who make positive contributions to Qatar, the region, and the world.The QF Alumni Programme – of which the forum is part – was created to enable these graduates to retain their links to each other and to QF and Qatar, and support each other on their journeys, through nurturing a global alumni network.HE Mohammed bin Ali bin Mohammed al-Mannai, Minister of Communications and Information Technology, said: “Qatar Foundation’s legacy of nurturing knowledge and innovation aligns seamlessly with the vision of our Digital Agenda 2030 to build a connected, knowledge-driven society.“As we celebrate three decades of QF’s impact, we reaffirm our shared commitment to empowering national talent with the digital skills and opportunities that will shape Qatar’s future economy. Beyond academic excellence, Qatar Foundation provides experiential and community-driven learning opportunities that inspire creativity, civic engagement, and lifelong learning.”Hamad Mubarak al-Hajri, Founder and CEO of Snoonu, said: "I am deeply inspired by the connections and insights shared at the Qatar Foundation Annual Alumni Forum, where we celebrated the transformative power of education in Qatar.“At Snoonu, we channel our unwavering efforts into nurturing this ecosystem, deeply valuing Qatar Foundation as the cornerstone institution driving talent development and innovation across the nation. Through its visionary programmes, QF empowers individuals and lays the foundation for innovative companies like Snoonu to thrive, propelling Qatar toward a brighter, more dynamic future."Rico Lin, President of Huawei Gulf North Region, said: “In today’s rapidly evolving digital economy, the fusion of education and technology has never been more critical. The ICT sector forms the backbone of modern societies, and platforms like this are vital for preparing the next generation of digital leaders.“At Huawei, we see it as our mission to help build a robust talent ecosystem in ICT, AI, 5G, and cybersecurity that will power Qatar’s knowledge-based economy. By equipping students and graduates with advanced digital skills, we are not only investing in individuals – we are contributing to the nation’s digital future in line with Qatar National Vision 2030.”

After weeks of intense competition, Stars of Science has announced its top three finalists for Season 17, each driven by a shared mission: using innovation to solve real-world problems. The finalists — Saudi Arabia's Razan Salem Bahabri, Algeria's Laid Dardabou, and Jordan's Mohammad AlShaikh Saleh — will now compete for the title of Top Arab Innovator, which will be decided by jury deliberation and public voting. The winner and runner-up will share the Grand Prize. Qatar Foundation invited the public to cast their votes, as public voting is now open on "www.starsofscience.com" and will close on 23 October, at 6 PM Doha time. Among the finalists is Razan Salem Bahabri, a Saudi completing her PhD in biomedical engineering, whose invention uses wearable gaming systems to support stroke patients in their rehabilitation journey. Her innovation merges therapy and technology to make recovery more interactive and accessible. "I wanted to prove that science can be personalized and empowering," said Bahabri. "Too often, rehabilitation feels clinical and detached. My goal is to bring empathy back into recovery — where patients are not just treated, but truly engaged." Also vying for the top prize is Laid Dardabou from Algeria, who holds a PhD in Animal Nutrition and Physiology, who created a smartwatch-based system that tracks biomarkers such as vitamin D and serotonin to detect early signs of depression and anxiety. Motivated by a deeply personal story, Dardabou's invention could change how mental health is monitored worldwide. "This project began as a promise," he said. "Someone close to me suffered from undiagnosed depression caused by a vitamin D deficiency. I wanted to ensure others never go through that same experience. Stars of Science gave me the tools to transform that promise into innovation." Completing the trio is Mohammad AlShaikh Saleh, a Jordanian Postdoctoral Research Fellow with a PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering, who has developed an AI-powered device that monitors electric vehicle (EV) battery health, reducing costs, waste, and emissions. His invention combines artificial intelligence with physics-based models to deliver accurate, transparent predictions, helping advance global sustainability goals. "I wanted my research to make a tangible difference," said Saleh. "My device supports the shift toward electric mobility by building trust in EV technology and aligning with sustainability visions across the Arab region." Throughout Stars of Science Season 17, the finalists have transformed their ideas into working prototypes through a rigorous process of testing, mentorship, and collaboration. Supported and backed by the Qatar Science and Technology Park (QSTP) as ground facilitator and incubator, a panel of world-class experts and an expansive alumni network, they've refined their innovations into solutions capable of making a real impact.

The Protection and Social Rehabilitation Center (Aman), part of the Qatar Foundation for Social Work, wrapped up the Light Exhibition held in partnership with Dadu, Children’s Museum of Qatar.The month-long exhibition showcased Aman’s awareness workshops, engaging students from kindergartens and both public and private schools.In this context, Aman Center’s Acting Executive Director Fadel Mohammed al-Kaabi said the Light Exhibition aimed to foster public awareness and education on social protection, while strengthening child safety measures and nurturing children’s creative and innovative abilities.He emphasised that the exhibition provided an educational environment and a unique opportunity to acquire knowledge and skills using new tools such as light and shadow.Al-Kaabi further noted that more than 20 schools were invited, targeting over 300 students from primary levels in both public and private schools, in addition to students from the Shafallah Center for Persons with Disabilities, children from Dreama Center for Orphan Care, and children benefiting from Aman Center’s internal care services.He explained that the exhibition received positive feedback from educational staff, including social workers and teachers accompanying the students, particularly in how Aman’s awareness workshops were integrated with the exhibition tools. He affirmed that these tools help unleash children’s potential in discovering their identities and creative abilities.For her part, Head of the Communication and Information Office at Aman Center Hanan al-Ali stressed the centre’s commitment to activating community partnerships with various entities and sectors across the country, noting that child protection is a shared responsibility.She added that the collaboration with Dadu Museum marks the beginning of a series of awareness events aimed at children, highlighting the museum’s dedication to delivering information and education through play.

Qatar Foundation for Social Work signed a co-operation agreement with the Akhlaquna initiative of the Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development (QF). Launched by Chairperson of the Board of Directors of QF, Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, the initiative represents a model for strengthening the relationship between science and ethics. The agreement aims to enhance co-operation between the Qatar Foundation for Social Work and the Akhlaquna initiative in implementing joint awareness and media campaigns and disseminating positive values ​​​​in society. This is part of the ‘Thank You 2025-2026’ campaign, which kicks off this year under the theme of gratitude and appreciation. It also seeks to activate community and media partnerships to serve the public interest and highlight the developmental role of the Foundation and its affiliated centres in promoting values ​​​​and ethics in Qatari society through participation in events and activities and the production of joint awareness content. The agreement was signed on behalf of the Qatar Foundation for Social Work by Director of the Communication Department at the Foundation, Noor Saleh al-Mohannadi, and on behalf of the Akhlaquna initiative by Project Manager at QF’s Pre-University Education at Qatar Foundation, Sheikha al-Zeyara, at the headquarters of the Qatar Foundation for Social Work. On this occasion, al-Mohannadi emphasised that this co-operation falls within the framework of the foundation’s vision to enhance joint work with national entities aimed at serving the community and instilling positive values ​​among its members. She explained that the co-operation with the Akhlaquna initiative represents a distinctive model of integration between national institutions in spreading ethical awareness and promoting positive behaviours. She noted that this step falls within the Qatar Foundation for Social Work’s approach to supporting national initiatives that contribute to strengthening community cohesion and support its mission to empower the beneficiaries of its centres. For her part, Sheikha al-Zeyara appreciated the constructive co-operation with the Qatar Foundation for Social Work, noting that it represents an extension of the positive relations between the two parties in the areas of community awareness. She also stressed that this co-operation complements the positive results achieved over the past years between the foundation, its centres, and the Akhlaquna initiative.