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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.

Qatar Foundation (QF)’s Pre-University Education has announced the opening of registration for the 2026 edition of its Akhlaquna initiative, including the Akhlaquna Award, which recognises youth and community projects that embody and promote ethical and human values in Qatar and beyond.Registration will continue until January 11, 2026. Applicants can apply across four established categories: the Junior Award (ages 7–14), the Youth Award (ages 15–18), Individual Contributions – Qatar, and Individual Contributions – GCC (ages 25–45). This year also marks the launch of a new category – the Al-Shabab Award – which aims to broaden participation and empower young people to showcase their initiatives.Al-Shabab Award highlights morally driven initiatives that create a positive impact on society. It is open to individuals and groups (aged 18–25), encouraging young people to present projects with a clear ethical dimension, whether developed individually or collaboratively.This year also marks the launch of the annual Akhlaquna campaign under the theme “Thank You”. The campaign seeks to foster a culture of gratitude, recognition, and meaningful appreciation, encouraging communities to practice thankfulness not only through words but also through actions and initiatives that strengthen social bonds.Ahmad Yousef al-Malki, project manager and member of the Akhlaquna team, said: “Over the years, the Akhlaquna initiative has become a cornerstone in encouraging ethical initiatives within our society. The initiative continues to provide a platform for highlighting and honouring projects that bring about positive change and inspire individuals to integrate moral values into their daily lives.”Speaking about this year’s campaign, al-Malki explained: “‘The theme of this year’s campaign, reflects QF’s vision of instilling a culture where gratitude and appreciation are not only expressed but also practised in ways that make a tangible impact. By promoting this value, we aim to strengthen relationships and encourage individuals to contribute positively to their communities.”“Our goal is to empower young people and the wider community to adopt ethical values as a guiding principle in their lives. By recognising and supporting them, we contribute to creating a growing impact that extends beyond the award itself, helping build a society where ethics and humanity shape our shared future.“We have high hopes for this edition, especially with the introduction of the new category. Our aim is to reach more young people committed to promoting ethical values and making a difference in their communities.“The Akhlaquna initiative aspires to leave a lasting legacy by encouraging ethical behaviour in society, inspired by the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), and by honouring initiative leaders as role models for others.”As part of Akhlaquna activities, school visits and student engagement sessions were held across QF schools and beyond, introducing students to the award’s objectives and categories and encouraging them to participate with their ethical initiatives. These sessions also included the implementation of this year’s campaign, “Thank You”, through interactive and practical activities that strengthened the value of gratitude within the school environment and encouraged students to practice thankfulness in their daily lives, both inside and outside the classroom.More information about the Akhlaquna Awards is available at www.akhlaquna.qa

The 17th season of Qatar Foundation's Stars of Science initiative is showcasing forward-looking inventions that leverage artificial intelligence (AI) to address some of the world's most pressing health and technology challenges. Among this year's standout innovations are wearable diagnostic tools, adaptive rehabilitation devices, and AI-powered systems that embrace a predictive approach to healthcare. Jordanian innovator Khaldoun Megdady has developed a 3D coronary artery simulation platform that allows cardiac surgeons to map and rehearse procedures in advance, reducing uncertainty and surgical risks. Algerian contestant Ryad Haji Habib is tackling immune response complications in treatment by using scorpion venom peptides to simulate potential reactions, ensuring better therapeutic outcomes. Fellow Algerian contestant Laid Dardabou addresses the global issue of vitamin D deficiency with a wearable device that monitors vitamin D levels in real time — a potential game changer for early intervention, particularly as over a billion people worldwide are affected. Other innovations include a smart AI-based system for electric vehicle battery monitoring, developed by Mohamed Alshaikh Saleh, which predicts faults before they occur. Contestant Razan Salem Bahabri is working on a gamified neurorehabilitation tool, while Mohamed Kahna is developing an augmented reality surgical system to support real-time decision-making during operations. This season's emphasis on predictive and preventive innovation highlights a growing shift in the region toward proactive, AI-integrated healthcare and technology solutions. Since launching in 2009, Stars of Science has aired over 313 episodes, supported 175 alumni from 18 Arab countries, and contributed to the launch of more than 55 startups across key sectors. Qatar Foundation and Qatar Science & Technology Park continue to back the program, empowering young innovators to shape a healthier, smarter, and more sustainable future.

Qatar Foundation's Pre-University Education (PUE) held its annual forum as part of the “World Teachers' Day” celebrations, honouring the dedication of teachers and educators.The event not only highlighted the achievements and milestones within the educational community but also showcased the inspiring experiences and success stories of graduates.The event also marked the launch of Qatar Foundation (QF)’s Pre-University Education Strategy 2040.It featured a range of engaging segments, where students and graduates – including sponsored staff through the Al Masar programme under the PUE, who joined QF schools in the current academic year – shared testimonials highlighting their experiences on both their academic and professional journeys.The programme included an awards ceremony honouring outstanding teachers and students in recognition of their contributions, alongside interactive activities that encouraged the sharing of experiences.An accompanying exhibition provided a platform to showcase educational initiatives and student innovations, highlighting the diversity and creativity within the educational system."As we celebrate Teachers' Day, we extend our deepest appreciation and respect to every teacher in our family,” said PUE president Abeer al-Khalifa.“You are the ones who turn challenges into opportunities, ideas into creativity, and who make a difference every day in the minds of our students,” she said. “Through your contributions, promising generations are built; through your efforts, our ambitions are renewed and our aspirations are achieved.”"This year, we celebrate educational achievements that reflect our commitment to innovation and to responding to the needs of our community,” al-Khalifa continued. “Among the most notable are the launch of the Islamic Civilisation Curriculum to strengthen our students’ sense of identity and belonging, the academic expansion projects at Qatar Academy Sidra and Renad Academy to meet the growing demand for school places, as well as the integration of the Military Secondary School with Qatar Leadership Academy, a strategic step that reflects our partnership with the Ministry of Defence.""Our gathering coincides with the 30th anniversary of the QF, three decades of dedication, achievement, excellence, innovation, and leadership,” she stressed. “This milestone inspires us and provides renewed strength as we shape the features of the Pre-University Education 2040 Strategy.""Through this strategy, we aim to build an integrated educational system that fosters the holistic growth of learners, instills in them a love for lifelong learning and pride in their identity and local culture, while enabling them to excel in a rapidly changing world,” al-Khalifa stated. “We also place great importance on teachers and experts, as role models within an inclusive and innovation-driven learning environment, and as essential partners in this inspiring journey, a key factor in realising its vision, achieving its goals, and turning it into a tangible reality."She concluded her remarks on the Pre-University Education 2040 Strategy by saying that "we reaffirm our deep commitment to protecting the Arabic language, strengthening identity, and instilling pride in local culture, through long-term partnerships at both the regional and global levels".

The seven Arab innovators on Qatar Foundation's Stars of Science continue their competition in the finals of Season 17, facing challenges that prove that perseverance is the key to transforming innovative ideas into global impact. The program, hosted by Qatar Science & Technology Park (QSTP), a member of Qatar Foundation, has become a catalyst for innovation in the Arab world since its launch in 2009. Through mentorship, access to state-of-the-art labs, and investor connections, QSTP helps contestants, like Season 16 winner, Yaman Tayyar, transform their ideas into viable startups that create global impact. This season, contestants will be required to exert their utmost effort to keep up with the program's increasingly advanced standards. Broadcast weekly on several regional channels and online platforms, the show challenges participants to build on the experiences of past graduates, an advantage that, coupled with their own vision and determination, could lead them to remarkable success. The Qatar Foundation edutainment show is raising the bar once again. This year's contestants aren't just building from scratch, they're attempting something uniquely challenging: refining what already exists. That kind of progress requires more than creativity. It demands precision, patience, and above all, targeted optimization. In the Arab region, Stars of Science has quietly forged something extraordinary: a generation of innovators who turned setbacks into stepping stones. This perseverance isn't just part of the show's legacy, it's the heartbeat of Season 17. Among the standout projects currently in the running are Razan Salem Bahabri's adaptive rehabilitation gaming system, and Mohamed Kahna's AR-assisted surgical navigation tool. Both push the boundaries of existing methods, and both are driven by a clear understanding of the real-world problems they aim to solve. "To improve what already works, you need more than invention, you need endurance," says Bahabri, a contestant from Saudi Arabia. Her approach is timely. Globally, there are 12.2 million new strokes each year, and rehabilitation centers now incorporate gamified therapy tools to support recovery, a field she is helping localize and adapt. Her project builds on those successes, offering a more engaging and accessible way to support neuroplasticity and user motivation in stroke rehabilitation. "When lives are at stake, you don't start from scratch, you make what's working even safer," says Kahna, her fellow Season 17 contestant. For Kahna, the stakes are high. Each year, more than 310 million major surgeries are performed around the world. The Tunisian's project seeks to improve outcomes by using augmented reality to support surgical decision-making, potentially helping surgeons avoid complications and act with greater clarity under pressure. Another shining example of resilience with long-haul success, when show alumnus, long-standing mentor and now co-host, Anwar Almojarkesh, joined Stars of Science in Season 5, he finished in fifth place. But his story didn't conclude there, it just began. Driven by advanced engineering, Almojarkesh developed a smart assistive pillow for the hearing impaired that detects emergencies such as fire alarms, alerting users through vibration, light, scent, and app notifications. After the show, he took the core of his invention and founded two companies, Innovation Factory in the UK and Sound Genetics in the US, bringing AI-powered technologies to governments, transport authorities, and healthcare providers worldwide. It is worth noting that Stars of Science has aired over 313 episodes since the first season, with the participation of 175 alumni from 18 Arab countries. Its graduates have helped launch more than 55 companies in various vital sectors.

Parents of students at Qatar Foundation (QF)’s Pre-University Education (PUE) schools expressed their deep appreciation for the pivotal role teachers play in their children’s lives on World Teachers’ Day.According to parents, a teacher is not merely a transmitter of knowledge, but a source of inspiration who instils values, uncovers hidden talents, and transforms the learning journey into a rich human experience that extends beyond the classroom.Dana Abdullatif al-Kuwari, a parent of a student at Education City High School (ECHS) under QF’s PUE, said: “I believe that teachers are the primary source of inspiration for my daughter, as they have helped her build self-confidence and given her the motivation to become more responsible in her educational journey.“The secret to a teacher’s success lies in their patience, passion, and ability to see the potential in their students. I clearly found these qualities in the teachers at QF, who provided her with opportunities to experiment and discover her talents, helping her strengthen her abilities and overcome challenges.”Al-Kuwari added: “I am grateful to the teachers for making the learning experience enjoyable rather than just about academic grades. They have instilled in my daughter curiosity, confidence, and the pursuit of excellence.”Wadha al-Maawdah, a mother of children at Qatar Academy Sidra (QAS) and Qatar Academy Doha (QAD), both schools under QF’s PUE, recalled how her daughter’s shyness at the beginning of the school year was transformed through her teacher’s support. “Her teacher involved her in group activities and collaborative tasks, and step by step she built friendships and gained confidence, which made a significant difference in her personality both inside and outside of school.”An alumnus of QAD, al-Maawdah added: “I witnessed this same dedication when one of her teachers recognised her passion for art and encouraged her to participate in exhibitions. This not only boosted her confidence but also transformed art from a hobby into a meaningful way of expression.“I am thankful to every teacher who has been a guiding light for my children and a source of support at every stage. Thanks to their efforts, my children’s educational journey has been enriched with knowledge, confidence, and personal growth.”Reema Said, whose daughter studies at QAD, highlighted how teachers’ encouragement extended beyond academics. “Their positive impact was especially evident when they encouraged her to participate in extracurricular activities, which enhanced her sense of responsibility.“The teachers at QF provided her with a nurturing environment that encouraged her to explore and discover her talents. Thanks to their efforts, learning has become an inspiring journey that enriches her personality with confidence and curiosity. For this, we extend our sincere gratitude and appreciation to them for being the reason behind our children’s growth and success.”

Qatar Foundation will launch Lawh Wa Qalam: M. F. Husain Museum - a new addition to Qatar's cultural landscape, dedicated to the life and work of one of the most influential figures in the history of modern art: Maqbool Fida Husain.The museum, which opens its doors to the public on Nov. 28, 2025, will foster creativity and dialogue while being a space for learning and discovery, as it joins the growing number of public spaces within Qatar Foundation's Education City that celebrate and perpetuate art, heritage, and innovation.Offering a deeply immersive art experience, the museum will invite visitors to step inside the world of Maqbool Fida Husain and explore the influences, philosophies, and memories that shaped his artistic journey. Through multimedia storytelling and art forms including paintings, films, tapestry, photography, and poetry, the museum will bring Husain's creativity to life in bold and innovative ways that resonate with audiences across Qatar and the wider region.The design of the museum mirrors a sketch by Husain depicting the architectural concept he envisioned for the building, which he saw as being an artwork in itself, reflecting his lifelong pursuit of innovation and his artistic work across diverse fields.The opening of the museum reflects Qatar Foundation's mission to create spaces where education, culture, and community come together for the benefit of Qatar and beyond. This vision is reflected across Education City's centers of learning as well as its cultural and public spaces that encourage discovery and connection - with Lawh Wa Qalam: M. F. Husain Museum being the latest example."Designed as a space for inspiration and creativity, Lawh Wa Qalam: M. F. Husain Museum reflects Qatar Foundation's dedication to providing spaces for everyone to explore, enjoy, learn from, and be inspired by art and culture," said Executive Director of Community Engagement and Programming, Qatar Foundation Kholoud Mohammed Al Ali."This immersive museum will provide a space for exploration, discovery, and critical thinking, fostering artistic dialogue and creating meaningful connections with audiences of all ages and backgrounds."Husain's remarkable journey as an artist mirrors the vibrant spirit of Education City, and his timeless works that will be displayed for all to experience in Lawh Wa Qalam: M. F. Husain Museum will further enrich Qatar Foundation's portfolio of public art, with over 100 works currently being displayed across Education City. Within the multidisciplinary environment of knowledge that is Education City, this museum will illustrate the power of creativity to inspire, educate, and foster the cross-cultural understanding that connects communities and worlds," Kholoud added.Seeroo fi al ardh - the Education City-based art installation that represents Husain's final masterpiece, celebrating the progress of humanity - will form part of Lawh Wa Qalam: M. F. Husain Museum, as a gallery in itself where visitors will have the opportunity to experience the celebrated artist's work being brought to life through a specially-curated show.

The QatarDebate Centre (QDC), a member of Qatar Foundation, convened the second Debaters for Change Roundtables, in continuation of its endeavour to empower youth and engage them in deliberating some of the foremost global issues, an undertaking that marked the current session of the UN General Assembly in New York.The event came as a natural extension of the success achieved by the inaugural round held during the same period last year, which explored the trajectories of international co-operation, and the Pact for the Future adopted at the Summit of the Future.The event convened more than 150 young debaters and adjudicators from over 40 American and Canadian universities.The initiative drilled down on fostering a culture of dialogue and critical thinking through youth-led deliberations that grappled with global and regional issues tied to their collective future, contributing to a deeper understanding of the formidable challenges confronting societies.It further provided a safe space for the unfettered exchange of perspectives, shining a spotlight on the role of young people as catalysts for shaping global policies and as architects of constructive change, through effective dialogue and the building of bridges of understanding across cultures.In the spirit of nurturing constructive dialogue and broadening the aperture of strategic thinking, three roundtable sessions convened experts, decision-makers, and young intellectuals from a host of countries to probe the pressing themes of progressive education, social inclusion, and global governance.The first panel centred on progressive education and the avenues for refining educational systems to keep up with the demands of the future while enhancing students’ capacity for innovation and critical thought.Participants affirmed that investment in education represents a direct investment in a more equitable and sustainable future.The second panel, held under the theme Supporting civil society initiatives to strengthen social cohesion, revisited the precepts of social inclusion enshrined in the 1995 Copenhagen Summit, reimagining them in light of present-day transformations.Discussions confronted the challenges stemming from social, economic, and cultural disparities, and tabled proposals to bolster equality and fair opportunity, stressing the indispensable role of civil society and sound public policy in building more inclusive communities.The third panel was devoted to addressing the mounting challenges of global governance amid intensifying humanitarian and environmental crises and a widening chasm between North and South.It underscored the urgent need to flip the script from lofty pledges and cosmetic initiatives to tangible practices that deliver justice in the allocation of resources and ensure access to technology, education, and healthcare.The discussion further stressed the imperative of amplifying the representation of developing nations in global decision-making centres and of integrating youth into the design of governance systems that are more inclusive and responsive to the exigencies of the future.The deliberations distilled into a set of recommendations, chief among them: restructuring selected mechanisms of global governance to make them more pluralistic and inclusive, reinforcing North-South co-operation on a basis of fairness, and supporting youth-driven initiatives that pioneer innovative solutions to global challenges.The panellists voiced their aspiration to construct a world more just, advanced, and harmonious, affirming that young people are not merely partners in the future but leaders in the present, wielding the capacity to drive development and engineer constructive change.They emphasised that granting them the space to articulate their visions constitutes an investment in a brighter tomorrow.This initiative falls within the QDC’s broader commitment to empowering young people with the tools of expression and influence, positioning them as active stakeholders in shaping future policies both within their societies and on the global stage.

Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation (QF), has hailed the launch of Global Autism Advocacy Coalition at UN General Assembly (UNGA).A call to join an action-driven global alliance focused on building a more inclusive future for people with autism around the world has been sounded by Qatar, alongside international partners, at the 80th session of the UN General Assembly.**media[362112]**“I welcome the launch of the Global Autism Advocacy Coalition, marking a milestone that shifts our efforts beyond awareness to collective action,” Her Highness Sheikha Moza said. “This platform urges the international community to embrace its shared responsibility in addressing autism. As the first coalition of its kind, it will ensure autism becomes an international priority.”“The State of Qatar’s commitment to the causes of autism extends beyond its national border, and is rooted in our belief that every individual deserves the opportunity to thrive and lead a fulfilling life,” she continued.“On this occasion, I urge governments, stakeholders, and development partners to move beyond awareness and commit to concrete collective action, including the meaningful allocation of necessary resources,” Her Highness Sheikha Moza added.**media[362110]**The launch of the Global Autism Advocacy Coalition (GAAC) – announced at an event led by Qatar, together with the QF, the World Health Organisation (WHO), Unicef, and Autism Speaks, during the UN General Assembly’s International High-Level Meeting on Non-Communicable Diseases and Mental Health – marks an opportunity for the international community to shape a unified worldwide approach to supporting those with autism and their families.Calling on decision-makers to move beyond advancing autism awareness, and to commit to allocating the necessary resources and taking collective steps to address the world’s shared autism challenge, the GAAC aims to advance a global autism agenda encompassing policy, advocacy, collaboration and knowledge sharing – including in the fields of research, technology, and education – co-ordinated outreach, and the formation of strategic partnerships that generate autism solutions.The GAAC has issued an invitation to government bodies, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), philanthropic organisations, companies, and others to join, and to be part of an international collaboration that advances the social integration, economic prospects, and wellbeing of people with autism worldwide.“The Global Autism Advocacy Coalition is a beacon of what can be achieved when nations unite for good,” HE the Minister of Public Health Mansoor bin Ebrahim bin Saad al-Mahmoud said. “By working together, we can improve the lives of millions of individuals with autism, helping them reach their full potential and showing the world that collective action delivers hope, dignity, and opportunity.”“This moment reflects the vision of Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, whose leadership has long advanced dignity, inclusion, and opportunity for individuals with autism,” said HE the Minister of Social Development and Family Buthaina bint Ali al-Jabr al-Nuaimi. “It was through her efforts that, in December 2007, the United Nations General Assembly adopted Resolution 62/139, designating April 2 as World Autism Awareness Day.”“Qatar has long been a regional pioneer in supporting autistic children and their families,” she said. “In 2017, it launched its first national autism strategy, creating a foundation for inclusive policies and services.”“Since then, Qatar has championed the rights of the autistic community through early diagnosis, education, and community services – ensuring inclusion at every stage of life,” HE al-Nuaimi added.Areas identified by the GAAC as being in need of globally unified resources, investment, and action include early diagnosis of autism, innovation, inclusive education, adult services, employment, and community integration, as highlighted at the event by Dr Dena al-Thani, associate professor at the QF’s Hamad Bin Khalifa University and co-founder of the A-sense Centre of Excellence, which focuses on innovative technology in autism assessment and intervention.Dr Hilal Lashuel, the Research, Development, and Innovation adviser to the Chairperson’s Office and Executive Director of Research, Development and Innovation at the QF, said: “We take pride in the leading role that Qatar Foundation, together with its partners, has played in establishing this coalition.”“Having a global voice for autism and launching supportive platforms for individuals with autism has become a global necessity, not a choice,” Dr Lashuel said. “Autism has become a worldwide challenge that requires a global response and resources that exceed the capacity of any single country or institution.”Her Highness Sheikha Moza is a leading global advocate for greater autism awareness and support.In 2007, her proposal for the establishment of World Autism Awareness Day – now held on April 2 each year – was adopted without a vote by the UN General Assembly, and QF programmes, centres, and educational methodologies are increasing inclusivity for people with autism, including within its specialised school Renad Academy.

The inaugural Qiyada conference by Qatar Foundation (QF) has seen athletes from Qatar reveal how faith has guided their journeys in sport – teaching them discipline, resilience and purpose, and helping to make it about more than just winning.The conference took place from September 19-20 at Multaqa, bringing together Muslim youth from schools and universities across Qatar to engage, share challenges, and explore faith-driven solutions.Athletic Edge founder Rabaah al-Musleh spoke about her journey as a runner – from struggling to run more than a minute when she started in 2018, to completing marathons.“Faith has shaped me a lot as an athlete – faith has added a deeper purpose to my running,” she said.“For every runner, the purpose of running and participating in marathons is to achieve personal bests,” al-Musleh said. “But because of faith, my purpose is to show gratitude for the things Allah has given me – health, physical strength, and mental strength.”“Truly believing in Allah, and the support that Allah will give you during this journey, will make the journey easier, more enjoyable, and more spiritual,” she added. “It gives running a deeper purpose, beyond just achieving personal goals.”Ahmed al-Shahrani, an adaptive athlete and Guinness World Record holder as the first and fastest para-athlete to cross Qatar by wheelchair, encouraged attendees to embrace their identity.“A part of being human is to be an ambassador for your culture: who you are, what you are,” he said.“You also have to know that you're going to play multiple roles in your life,” al-Shahrani continued. “You have to know that your identity has to be more than just what you do and what you enjoy – it has to be rooted in something deeper. And I find nothing deeper than faith.”He also spoke about the role of discipline, particularly during Ramadan.“It's just amazing how much you can achieve when you put your mind to it, and when you're disciplined,” al-Shahrani added. “And discipline is a big part of Ramadan."Amal Mohammed Saleh, captain of Qatar’s women’s national basketball team and an internationally licensed basketball referee, shared her experience of advocating for Muslim women athletes.In 2014, her team attended a tournament, but could not compete because players were not allowed to wear the hijab on court.“But we had faith,” Saleh said. “In 2017, basketball’s rules were changed, allowing Muslim women to fully participate while wearing the hijab.”

The Statistical and Data Training Centre at the National Planning Council (NPC), in co-operation with Qatar Foundation (QF), has concluded a specialised training programme entitled ‘Economic Statistics for Managers: From Data to Decisions’.The initiative, held at QF headquarters, was part of national efforts to enhance government efficiency and advance knowledge-based sustainable development, a statement said.The aim is to qualify government leaders in economic fields, empowering them to effectively utilise data and statistics to impact public policies.The programme focused on developing skills for using data efficiently as a fundamental element in improving institutional performance and enhancing decision-making effectiveness.It is also a significant step towards qualifying national cadres and developing their capabilities in statistical leadership, as well as building integrated, collaborative systems for data exchange among various entities. The programme emphasised the importance of building trust in government data as a cornerstone for ensuring effective governance.It highlighted the pivotal role of integration and data exchange between institutions, and encouraged the adoption of modern tools and techniques in future planning.This reinforces the concept of leadership empowerment in the field of data, which enables leaders to support national decisions with accurate and reliable information. The intensive six-day programme covered several key themes, including: fundamentals of data and statistics, national statistical system, statistical literacy for executive leaders, data integration and ethics, statistical data management, strategic leadership, and roadmap design.Hessa Ali al-Malki, director of the Statistical and Data Training Centre at NPC, said: “Organising the programme with Qatar Foundation strengthens our partnerships with the country’s leading academic institutions.”QF’s talent management director Sheikha Ghalia al-Thani, said: “This initiative is part of our strategic co-operation with national institutions, reflecting QF’s steadfast commitment to enhancing national capabilities through knowledge exchange and leadership development across various sectors.”