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The Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) has recently organised a training workshop for around 90 health service providers from the Primary Health Care Corporation working in government schools, to strengthen their readiness to manage asthma cases within the school environment and equip them with the skills required to apply internationally recognised best health practices.MOPH's Director of the Non-Communicable Disease Prevention Programmes Department Sheikh Dr. Mohamed bin Hamad Al-Thani stressed the importance of the Asthma-Friendly Schools Programme in enhancing student health and ensuring a safe educational environment for students with asthma.He pointed out that the integration of efforts between the Ministry of Public Health, the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, the Primary Health Care Corporation and Hamad Medical Corporation constitutes a foundation for strengthening the quality of healthcare services provided in schools.He noted that MOPH has achieved, over recent years, remarkable national accomplishments in raising awareness of asthma through large-scale activities organised on World Asthma Day, including media campaigns targeting the public, awareness workshops for the school community, and training programmes for school health staff.These efforts contribute to promoting an accurate understanding of asthma, enabling students, their families and teachers to manage the condition safely and effectively, and reducing asthma attacks within the school environment, positively reflecting on students’ health and academic progress.The Director of the Non-Communicable Disease Prevention Programmes Department also praised the major role of the Primary Health Care Corporation in implementing the Asthma-Friendly Schools Programme by providing school health staff, offering continuous training, following up students with asthma, and connecting them to essential health services.Hamad Medical Corporation also participates in the programme through its clinical expertise and advanced specialities by developing the national guidelines for asthma management, providing specialised technical training to healthcare personnel, supporting rapid intervention mechanisms for emergency cases, and enhancing the preparedness of the health system to deal with asthma complications.In her remarks during the workshop, Supervisor of the Asthma-Friendly Schools Programme, Dr. Maya Al Shaiba stated that implementing the programme across all government schools reflects Qatar’s commitment to providing a supportive and safe school environment for students with asthma. She also praised the efforts of school health staff and their significant role in improving the quality of services provided to students.The "Asthma-Friendly Schools" Programme is one of the national initiatives aimed at reducing absenteeism among students with asthma, strengthening health preparedness within schools, supporting students in managing their health condition, raising health awareness among students and their families, and reinforcing the partnership between families, schools, and the health sector. 

Mosanada has been closely involved in the operation of many of Qatar’s major sporting venues since its establishment in 2013, with its work extending across cultural sites, public facilities, and large-scale event environments.Over the years, the company has developed an operating presence across assets that form part of the country’s everyday infrastructure and national events calendar. On December 15, Mosanada will take its next step by listing on the Qatar Stock Exchange, formalising its position within the public market.Chief executive officer Mark Cooke has played a central role in shaping the organisation’s operating approach and guiding its progression across different facility types. As Mosanada prepares for this transition, Cooke reflects on the company’s development, the nature of its work, and how the move to the public market aligns with its long-term direction. Mosanada has been operating for more than a decade. Why was this the right moment to list the company? Mosanada has reached a level of operational maturity where a public listing is a natural step. Our work now spans national assets, major public venues, and complex environments that demand strong governance, long-term planning, and consistent performance.After more than ten years of predictable operations and disciplined financial management, moving to the public market widens participation while maintaining continuity. The founders remain committed shareholders, and the company enters the market with a proven track record and a stable operating base. Many readers may not be familiar with what “specialised facility management” actually involves. How would you explain Mosanada’s role in simple terms? Our job is to keep large public, sports, cultural, and infrastructure assets running safely and reliably. These are high-footfall environments where even a minor disruption can have a major impact.We oversee technical systems, manage planned and reactive maintenance, coordinate contractors, and ensure that facilities operate without interruption. Depending on the project, we either serve as the managing agent or deliver integrated FM services ourselves. When the public does not have to think about what is happening behind the scenes, that usually means our teams have delivered what is expected of them. Mosanada was founded within the Aspire Zone Foundation and Qatar Olympic Committee ecosystem. How has that shaped the company’s development? It placed us directly inside an ecosystem where reliability and precision are essential. Working on national sports venues, major public facilities, and international events shaped the discipline with which we operate.Our exposure across Aspire Zone, the Ministry of Sports and Youth sports facilities, Katara, Qatari Diar, Expo 2023, and others gave us a range of operational experience that is uncommon in the sector. That foundation continues to influence how we plan, structure teams, and manage complex assets. What distinguishes Mosanada’s operating model from traditional FM companies? A large part of our work sits at the strategic layer of facility management. We manage portfolios of assets that require integrated systems, structured vendor governance, performance monitoring, and long-term maintenance planning.This specialised agency model is asset-light, which contributes to financial resilience, and it is well-suited to large facilities with demanding operational requirements. Our teams apply organised performance frameworks across all projects, and that discipline underpins our results. The company supported some of Qatar’s most visible national projects, including the 2022 FIFA World Cup and Expo 2023. What did these experiences add to Mosanada’s capabilities? Major events condense a tremendous amount of operational pressure into short timelines. You learn to anticipate issues early, coordinate diverse technical teams, and maintain operational control under strict deadlines.During the World Cup, our work across key assets required real-time responsiveness and adherence to precise standards. Expo 2023 demanded end-to-end involvement from planning to handover to ongoing support. These experiences strengthened our systems, broadened our technical depth, and reinforced the operational discipline that guides our daily work. Mosanada reports strong cash generation and a debt-free balance sheet. What underpins that strength? It’s the structure of the business. We operate under long-duration contracts that create predictability. Our model is asset-light, so we do not rely on heavy capital expenditure. And we apply tight operational controls supported by digital tools and measurable performance standards.This combination has supported consistent results over many years. For the financial year 2024, shareholders approved a dividend of QR42mn, equal to QR0.60 per share, payable to shareholders of record on February 8, 2026. It reflects the financial outcome of that year and the company’s underlying cash position. Trading in Mosanada’s shares begins on 15 December 2025. What should readers know as the company enters the market? Trading begins at 9.30am on December 15 through the direct listing mechanism on the Qatar Stock Exchange Main Market. All eligible investors with an active NIN will be able to purchase shares directly in the market.All shares carry the same rights, and the company’s founders retain 75% of the share capital with a one-year lock-up. More than 100 new investors now hold the remaining 25%, which supports liquidity from the first day of trading. It is a straightforward and transparent entry to the market. Looking ahead, what areas of the FM sector are evolving most rapidly, and how is Mosanada positioning itself within those changes? Facility management is becoming increasingly data-driven, with digital systems shaping how assets are monitored, maintained, and prioritised. Technical capabilities, compliance, and workforce development will also continue to be central themes across the industry.For Mosanada, these are areas we already work with closely. Much of our operating model relies on integrated systems, structured planning, and measurable outcomes. In the coming period, we will continue to evaluate strategic options that align with its operational strengths and long-term mandate.Our focus is straightforward: maintain the standards expected of the facilities we support, strengthen our teams, and apply technology where it meaningfully improves reliability and efficiency. As Mosanada enters this new phase as a listed company, what message would you share with your teams, partners, and new shareholders? This milestone is first and foremost a recognition of the people inside the company. Our teams support facilities that operate seven days a week, often behind the scenes, and their work is the foundation of Mosanada’s reputation.For our partners and clients, our priorities remain unchanged: disciplined operations, technical capability, and consistent delivery across every site. For new shareholders, the listing provides a transparent framework through which to follow the company’s progress. Mosanada has grown deliberately, and the same principles that shaped its first decade will guide its next chapter. 

His Excellency the Minister of Finance Ali bin Ahmed al-Kuwari has announced that the total expected revenues for the State Public Budget for 2026 amount to QR199.0bn, representing a growth of 1.0% compared to the total revenues of the 2025 budget. In a press release disseminated Tuesday, following His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani issuing Law No 26 of 2025 approving the State General Budget for the fiscal year 2026, HE al-Kuwari pointed out that revenue estimates were based on an average oil price of $55 per barrel, in line with the conservative approach adopted by the State to ensure fiscal sustainability and enhance resilience against market fluctuations. Regarding total expenditures, he said they are estimated at approximately QR220.8bn, an increase of 5.0% compared to the 2025 budget. He also noted that the expected deficit for 2026, amounting to QR21.8bn, will be covered through the use of local and external debt instruments in accordance with financing requirements and developments in debt markets. His Excellency al-Kuwari further indicated that a press conference will be held today to present the details of the State Public Budget and discuss its key directions and priorities.

The Ministry of Municipality has inaugurated two new public parks, designed and implemented in coordination with the Public Works Authority (Asghal).The Al Nabaq and Al Athl public parks are intended to be part of the ministry's ongoing plans to enhance quality of life, expand green spaces, and improve public services, in line with Qatar National Vision 2030.Assistant Undersecretary for Public Services, Abdulla al-Karani, said the openings align with the Ministry of Municipality's 2024-2030 strategy and the Third National Development Strategy. He emphasised the ministry's continuous efforts to increase green areas and the number of parks across the country, supporting government directives to create healthier urban environments and recreational facilities for the community.Al-Karani added that the ministry follows a comprehensive plan to raise per capita green space and improve living standards in residential areas by developing new parks, upgrading existing ones, and providing modern facilities suitable for all age groups. The expansion of green areas is a key priority to ensure sustainable development and healthy urban living.Al Nabaq Park in Al-Thumama spans 3,723 square metres, with green areas covering 67% of the space. It features a 181-metre jogging track, a children's playground for ages 6-12, a fitness area, walking paths, seating areas, and accessible facilities for people with disabilities.Al Athl Park in Al Mi'raadh, Al Rayyan Municipality, covers 3,368 square metres with 55% green space. It includes 40 trees, various ornamental plants, a 192-meter jogging track, a children's play area, walking paths, seating areas, and accessible facilities for disabled visitors.The inauguration of the two parks is part of a wider series of development projects by the ministry aimed at providing safe, healthy, and aesthetically pleasing urban environments, encouraging physical activity and recreation, and supporting national goals to build greener, more livable cities. 

The Ministry of Public Health carried out a wide-scale inspection campaign covering a number of restaurants, cafeterias, and sites designated by companies to provide food to workers at their residential locations in the Industrial Area. The objective was to ensure compliance with health standards and requirements during food handling, and to strengthen food safety and protect consumer health in the State of Qatar.During the campaign, inspections were carried out at 479 establishments, including restaurants and cafeterias, in addition to 191 sites designated by companies to prepare and serve food in worker accommodations for about 95,000 workers in the Industrial Area. Each food establishment and site underwent at least three inspection visits to monitor the implementation of corrective measures and to raise the level of compliance.A total of 1,813 food samples were collected (1,239 samples from restaurants and cafeterias and 573 samples from worker housing sites). They were analyzed at the Ministry of Public Health’s food safety laboratories. The results showed that all samples met health requirements.The total number of visits carried out by inspectors from the Food Safety Department of the Ministry of Public Health during the four-month campaign exceeded 1,650 inspection visits to cafeterias and restaurants. The regulatory efforts resulted in a notable improvement in performance, as more than 82 percent of these establishments advanced by at least one grade in the classification system compared to their initial inspection visit.Statistics from the electronic food safety system Wathiq also showed that 44 percent of the sites designated by companies to prepare and serve food to workers at their accommodations received an Excellent rating, within an overall ratio of 85 percent of sites rated Average and above, compared to the initial inspection visit for these sites.The Ministry of Public Health continues working to complete coverage of the remaining worker accommodations, restaurants, and cafeterias, increase inspection visits, and organize training workshops for food handlers to raise awareness of health requirements and general hygiene standards.The Food Safety Department of the Ministry of Public Health continues to implement the food establishment classification program as part of the ministry’s strategy to protect public health. This is achieved through continuous cooperation between the relevant authorities and food establishment owners, which is a fundamental pillar in establishing an advanced and sustainable food system that meets the highest standards of food safety.

His Excellency Minister of Public Health Mansoor bin Ebrahim Al Mahmoud inaugurated Thursday the 6th International Primary Health Care Conference (IPHCC), organized by the Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) over three days, with wide participation estimated at about one thousand experts, doctors and specialists from several countries, making it one of the most prominent scientific gatherings in the region, and an important platform for the exchange of experiences and knowledge.The conference will showcase a wide range of advanced topics in primary healthcare through panel discussions and workshops led by a select group of international speakers and experts. It will also provide researchers with an opportunity to present their research and the findings of recent studies that can be applied to improving primary healthcare services both within Qatar and internationally.On the sidelines of the conference, which targets doctors, nurses, pharmacists, laboratory technicians and other healthcare professionals, medical students and those interested in developing their scientific and practical skills, a specialized exhibition will be held showcasing the latest medical innovations and health technologies offered by local and international institutions.In her opening remarks, Managing Director of the PHCC Dr. Mariam Abdul Malik affirmed that holding the IPHCC 2025 under the theme "Inspiring Tomorrow: The Power of Collaboration in Primary Health Care," embodies Qatar's firm commitment to developing the health sector, based on a national vision that places human beings at the heart of development. She pointed out that primary health care in Qatar has become an advanced model at the regional and international levels, thanks to the strategic investment in human health and the building of an integrated system that provides high-quality preventive, curative and rehabilitative services in a safe and competitive environment.She emphasized that everyone in Qatar enjoys an advanced health system, noting that what has been achieved in terms of healthcare services is clearly reflected in the satisfaction of community members and visitors to health centers, while the results of surveys measuring the percentage of visitors' satisfaction with receiving the diverse and comprehensive services show that it has reached 80 percent.She stressed that these indicators are nothing but a manifestation of the impact of joint efforts in improving primary health care, saying that the conference gathering is not just a scientific event, but a platform that stimulates creativity, inspires health work teams to share knowledge and experiences, and anticipates innovative solutions that contribute to establishing a more prepared, flexible and sustainable health system, for a healthier and more prosperous tomorrow for the nation and society.She praised the tireless efforts and continuous attention of the state to the health sector, to promote human health as the true wealth of the nation. She noted that primary health care in Qatar has become a model to be emulated regionally and globally, thanks to the great support that this sector enjoys, and the keenness to empower people and provide an integrated health system that meets the preventive, curative and rehabilitative needs of all residents, in a safe, high-quality environment. She noted that the work of the conference reflects the spirit of partnership between the PHCC and the Ministry of Public Health, and comes in support of the National Health Strategy 2024-2030, which focuses on promoting prevention, paying attention to mental health, improving the experience of patients, and developing sustainable services that keep pace with the state's aspirations.The PHCC's Managing Director indicated that the conference constitutes a vital scientific space to discuss key themes, including emerging technologies and artificial intelligence, innovation in medical education, promoting integration between disciplines, and developing digital solutions to improve the patient experience. Concluding her remarks, she voiced her appreciation for the efforts of the conference team, the partners in success from national and international institutions, and the official sponsors, stressing that this cooperation reflects a shared national commitment to developing primary health care in Qatar.HE the Minister of Public Health toured the exhibition accompanying the conference, in which distinguished healthcare professionals, including local and international companies, providers of medical services, supplies and devices, are participating to showcase their latest innovations in the healthcare sector, along with various educational and technological entities, which contributes to enriching the scientific experience of the participants and opening up broader horizons for cooperation and exchange of experiences. 

Officials, experts, and industry leaders in Tuesday's session of the ministerial programme at MWC25 Doha discussed the technologies and services provided by mobile phones, which they said currently contribute $6.5tn to the global economy by enhancing productivity and efficiency in both the private and public sectors, while enabling citizens and the broader Internet ecosystem to thrive and drive innovation.The participants, in the session titled "Unleashing Investment Through Mobile: Rethinking Regulations for Growth and Innovation", highlighted trends in mobile telecommunications investment, best regulatory and financial practices to create an environment conducive to growth and innovation, as well as balanced financial frameworks that meet economic priorities, support affordability, stimulate investment, and address digital security policies and regulations that enhance consumer confidence in digital services while ensuring their safety and security.They emphasised that investments in the mobile telecommunications sector and mobile infrastructure are essential elements for building a digital economy, particularly in the region, with the potential for the digital economy to contribute up to 10% of GDP, making investment in mobile infrastructure highly significant.For his part, Eng Khalid al-Hashimi from the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) spoke about information security in the telecommunications sector and the challenges faced by service providers in implementing contemporary security measures to address the risks of related technologies.He specifically focused on the importance of applying the principle of assurance to strengthen protection against cyber risks.Dr Mani Manimohan, Head of Policy and Regulation for Digital Infrastructure at the GSMA — which is organising MWC25 Doha in partnership with MCIT — said that, for the first time in the Middle East and North Africa region, when looking across different markets in the region, one observes many areas related to the session's theme, both in fiscal and regulatory policy.He added that, on this basis, the session aims to rethink how to move away from traditional taxes and fees based on operators' revenues, as well as rigid and inflexible rules related to network deployment and service quality, and instead work on providing a regulatory and financial environment that is more equitable, reliable, and flexible, enabling operators to make the necessary investments to build the digital economy.Manimohan noted that mobile operators worldwide invest very substantial financial levels, amounting to approximately USD244bn annually, in network capital expenditures, which over the years has resulted in a remarkable success story in the mobile telecommunications sector.He noted, for various reasons, the existence of a gap between governments' ambitious digital agendas and operators' capacity to sustainably finance those investments in the future.In addition, Manimohan further highlighted that one of the key areas to encourage investment is rethinking financial and regulatory policies.He emphasised three immediate and strategic priorities, chiefly reducing taxes and fees based on operators' revenues, which in some markets reach up to 50%, making the deployment of fibre networks and transmission towers faster, easier, and more cost-effective, and moving away from overly rigid obligations related to service quality. 

Class of 2024 Georgetown University in Qatar (GU-Q) graduate Fatima Yunusa has won the 2026 Rhodes Scholarship — the world’s oldest and most competitive international scholarship.A Nigerian public policy researcher, Yunusa is one of three recipients of the 2026 Rhodes Scholarship in West Africa. She is also among more than 30 other Georgetown students and alumni who have received the scholarship, and the third graduate of Georgetown’s Qatar campus to receive the award in the past five years, joining the likes of Khansa Maria (SFS’21), and Asma Shakeel (SFS’24).The scholarship selects promising young people from around the world who demonstrate integrity, leadership, character, intellect and a commitment to service to study at the University of Oxford.“Fatima’s commitment to uplifting others combined with her focus on public policy and public service exemplifies Georgetown’s highest ideals, and we look forward to seeing what she will accomplish,” said Georgetown Interim president Robert M Groves.As a Rhodes Scholar, Yunusa wants to build on her skills through public policy and public policy research graduate programmes in order to advance her home country’s national development.“I’m concerned about poverty eradication, poverty, and how it prevents people from living a life of dignity. My interest in development comes from recognising that high-quality jobs and opportunities are the most sustainable way for poverty alleviation,” said Yunusa, adding: “It’s a huge opportunity. I’m excited to learn from people who know public service from around the world.”Yunusa grew up moving across different parts of Nigeria. Along the way, she noticed how highly skilled individuals often lacked meaningful employment opportunities. She also saw people she loved struggle with these challenges in professions that hardly made ends meet. Her experiences made her question what she could do to empower communities to maximise their skills and talents.“While talent development initiatives exist in the country, they are not sustainable enough to yield the scale of transformation necessary to secure the country’s future. Existing initiatives are fragmented across sectors, often outdated, or tied to political administrations rather than lasting institutional mandates,” she said. “Nigeria must align its talent, market needs, and position within the international economy to advance.” 

Qatar Chamber hosted Monday the activities of the ‘2nd Conference on Environmental, Social, and Institutional Governance (ESG) Qatar 2025’, organised by Hawkama Centre for Public Relations, in cooperation with the Institute for Sustainability and Environmental Professionals (ISEP) in England and Qatar Chamber as a strategic partner.Sheikh Dr Thani bin Ali bin Saud al-Thani, president of the conference, affirmed that ESG has become a major driver of business worldwide. He stressed that companies seeking to strengthen their competitiveness in global markets and attract foreign direct investment must adhere to the highest international standards, with ESG now forming an integral component of these standards.He noted that Qatar holds a leading position in adopting ESG frameworks, guided by a proactive vision that places sustainability at the core of its national priorities. He explained that ESG standards serve as a fundamental pillar for building sustainable sectors such as tourism, financial services, and technology.Sheikh Dr Thani emphasised that ESG has evolved into a strategic tool for managing risks, generating growth opportunities, enhancing reputation, and attracting capital and talent. He warned that companies neglecting these standards risk falling behind in an increasingly dynamic and rapidly changing global economy.Qatar Chamber acting general manager Ali Bu Sherbak al-Mansouri said the conference plays a key role in raising awareness about the implementation of ESG standards across economic sectors. He noted that the event provides an important platform for showcasing best practices in governance, reporting, financial integration, and innovative approaches to sustainability.Alan Darby, Corporate Partnerships manager at ISEP–UK, said Qatar plays a leading role in integrating ESG standards, noting that ISEP co-operates with various Qatari entities and companies to implement best practices in this field.He also affirmed that the risks associated with climate change will have direct impacts on the economy, businesses, and supply chains. He noted that while these challenges pose significant risks, they also open the door to new economic opportunities, with the private sector expected to play a key role in addressing and leveraging them.Engineer Abdulwahab Bukshaisha from the Public Works Authority (Ashghal) said Ashghal works to integrate ESG standards across all stages of its projects, placing community safety and quality of life at the top of its priorities.He noted that Ashghal is committed to developing facilities and urban infrastructure that enhance security and safety while promoting best practices. He stressed Ashghal’s commitment to working with a spirit of innovation to support the future of the State and reinforce the principles of sustainability.

The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) participated in the forty-eighth session of the Codex Alimentarius Commission, which was recently held in Rome, the Italian capital, with representatives from member states and international organisations concerned with establishing global food standards.MoPH participated in strengthening international efforts to establish unified scientific standards and references for food safety and quality, and to promote fair trade in food products, in line with the State's commitments to international bodies, especially the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and the World Health Organization.During the meetings, a decision was made to adopt a standard for fresh dates as an international standard and to introduce a standard for pasteurised camel milk as a new work item on the Codex Alimentarius agenda.This represents support for the regional proposal led by the Codex Committee for the Near East, which includes the State of Qatar within its regional framework.The meetings also included participation in the review of the code of practice for the prevention and reduction of aflatoxin contamination in peanuts, the setting of maximum limits for lead in spices and herbs, and the updating of standards for food additives and chemical contaminants.MoPH's Food Safety Consultant Dr. Muna Al Olan affirmed that the Ministry's participation in the meetings is part of national efforts to enhance Qatar's presence in international forums concerned with food safety, and to contribute to the formulation of global decisions and standards that help raise the level of protection for local consumers and develop the national food safety system in line with the latest international practices and standards.She also praised the active role of the Codex Alimentarius Commission in unifying international efforts to ensure food safety and achieving the highest levels of transparency and trust between countries, stressing the Ministry's keenness to maintain close cooperation with international and regional partners in this field.

Senior government officials, academics, and innovation leaders have explored how Public Innovation Labs (PILs) can help governments improve service delivery, foster citizen engagement, and build agile institutions.Eman al-Kuwari, director of Digital Innovation at the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), underscored how MCIT is reimagining the role of government in the digital age, citing the TASMU Innovation Lab.“Technology is the means, not the end; we created the Innovation Lab to offer a safe environment for experimentation. It’s a space where we can test emerging technologies, validate ideas, and include the wider ecosystem.“That includes startups, academia, and private sector partners. We’re reimagining how government works — and that starts with giving teams the confidence to try,” al-Kuwari pointed out during the inaugural ‘Ibtechar Majlis’, a new dialogue series launched earlier by Qatari innovation firm Ibtechar.She added that innovation must be embedded in the culture of public institutions: “It’s not just about infrastructure or policy — it’s about building a mindset. We want government teams to be able to experiment, to test, and to learn. That’s how we bring real value to public services.”Nejoud M al-Jehani, executive director of Strategy & Programmes at the Qatar Research, Development and Innovation (QRDI) Council, offered a strategic framing of innovation, distinguishing between internal reform and ecosystem-wide transformation.“We differentiate between government innovation and public innovation. Government innovation is about improving internal processes — policies, service delivery, operations. Public innovation is broader. It’s about creating value for society by mobilising the entire ecosystem: government entities, corporates, startups, and universities,” al-Jehani explained.Emphasising the dual role of government in this landscape, she continued: “As an adopter, government defines challenges and becomes the first customer. That builds market confidence. As an enabler, it sets standards, opens partnerships, and creates the conditions for innovation to thrive across sectors.”Hissa al-Tamimi, director of Governmental Innovation at the Civil Service and Government Development Bureau (CGB), spoke about the launch of Qatar’s first government accelerator and its role in bridging national priorities with operational realities.She said, “We’re rethinking how services are designed and how operations are managed. The accelerator helps us connect national projects with the day-to-day work of government entities.”Al-Tamimi also addressed the cultural challenge of embedding innovation in public institutions, saying, “If innovation were just about systems, adaptation would be easy. But when you’re dealing with people, that’s where the challenge lies. Innovation pushes us beyond our comfort zones. It’s not a privilege — it’s a way of living. That’s the only way we can advance.”Dr Georgios Dimitropoulos, professor and associate dean for Research at Hamad Bin Khalifa University’s College of Law, highlighted the importance of collaboration between academia and government: “Academia brings ideas and evidence. The government brings implementability. The two sides need each other.”Citing historical examples to illustrate the power of this partnership, Dimitropoulos said: “Think of the Manhattan Project, the COVID vaccines, and the Internet. These were all born from collaboration between government and academia. Qatar’s AI strategy is a local example. It was developed with HBKU’s Qatar Computing Research Institute, and it positioned the country as an early adopter.”Ibtechar co-founder and CEO Nayef al-Ibrahim, who moderated the discussion, framed the Majlis as a culturally rooted space for dialogue and co-creation, adding that it is “an integral part of Qatari culture.”“Public Innovation Labs continue that spirit. They offer governments safe spaces to test ideas, co-create with citizens, and deliver agile services. In a small state, a model that combines centralised coordination with decentralised experimentation brings significant value. It allows for flexibility, inclusion, and scale—all while maintaining coherence,” he added.

The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) has issued a circular requiring pharmaceutical companies to print essential information about human medicinal products in Braille on their outer packaging. Implementation will be introduced gradually and will become compulsory for all pharmaceutical products available to the public from November 2027.The requirement stipulates that the name of the medicine, its active ingredient and strength must be printed in Braille in both Arabic and English.The MoPH has also issued the Guideline on the Braille Requirements for Labelling Information of Medicinal Products for Human Use, which defines the technical and regulatory standards for implementation.Dr Ghanim Ali Al Mannai, Assistant Undersecretary for Healthcare Regulatory Affairs at the MoPH, affirmed that this measure forms part of the Ministry's efforts to enhance medication awareness across all segments of society, and to facilitate safe access to and use of pharmaceutical products by people who are blind or visually impaired. He noted that this aligns with the priorities of the National Health Strategy (NHS), which seeks to improve population health and wellbeing, deliver excellence in healthcare services and patient experience, and promote quality, key enablers and sustainability.Dr Al Mannai added that the Ministry also aims to ensure the safe use of medicines and to improve access to information about medical products for people with visual impairments.He further explained that the Pharmacy and Drug Control Department at the MoPH will monitor implementation at all stages of pharmaceutical product registration, including new registrations, renewals, and modification requests. Compliance will also be verified during inspection and regulatory visits carried out by the Department's teams to pharmacies and drug warehouses.