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Palestinian officials, media figures, and researchers said that the late His Highness the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani left an enduring legacy of support for the Palestinian cause and the protection of Islamic holy sites in Palestine, describing him as an exemplary Arab leader whose contributions will remain etched in the memories of history and the Palestinian people.In statements to Qatar News Agency (QNA), they highlighted the late Father Amir's distinguished leadership, steadfast political positions, and humanitarian and development initiatives, which had a profound impact on Palestinians, particularly in the Gaza Strip. They said his legacy will remain present through the positions he championed and the projects launched during his reign that contributed to strengthening Palestinian resilience.They added that the passing of HH the Father Amir represents the loss of an Arab leader whose name became synonymous with unwavering support for the Palestinian cause, saying that the legacy he left behind reflects the deep ties between Qatar and Palestine and a political and humanitarian approach whose impact remains evident today. They noted that Qatar has continued to stand alongside the Palestinian people through humanitarian and relief aid, as well as political support for their legitimate national rights, including freedom, independence, and statehood.For his part, Director of the Government Media Office in the Gaza Strip, Ismail al-Thawabta, praised the humanitarian and historic role played by the State of Qatar during the era of the late HH the Father Amir, particularly in helping break the siege imposed on the Gaza Strip. He said that amid the historic turning points and major challenges faced by the Palestinian people, the humanitarian and principled positions adopted by Qatar represented significant milestones, reflecting the pioneering role led by the State through initiatives launched and sponsored by the late HH the Father Amir.No Palestinian or Arab can overlook the strategic contributions and profound humanitarian interventions established by Qatar’s vision during the era of the late HH the Father Amir. That vision served as a key pillar in strengthening the resilience of Palestinians and helping them remain steadfast on their land, he added.He noted that the historic and unprecedented visit by the late HH the Father Amir to the Gaza Strip in 2012 represented the first official and practical declaration of breaking the political and economic siege imposed on the Strip. He said the visit was a bold step and a strong message of Arab solidarity that challenged efforts to isolate Gaza, restored hope among Palestinians, and paved the way for a new phase of reconstruction and development in the face of destruction and aggression.Al-Thawabta said Qatar’s genuine political will translated into concrete action through the launch of the Qatar-funded reconstruction grant, which brought about a significant transformation in the Strip’s infrastructure. He highlighted several major development projects implemented under the initiative, including the construction of Hamad City residential complex, the rehabilitation and expansion of vital roads in Gaza, including Salah al-Din and al-Rashid streets, as well as the establishment of major medical facilities, most notably the Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani Hospital for Rehabilitation and Prosthetics, which he described as a lifeline for those injured in conflicts and people with disabilities, among other projects.The Director of the Government Media Office in the Gaza Strip stated that Qatar’s vision during the era of the late HH the Father Amir extended beyond rebuilding infrastructure to strengthening human resilience. He added that the initiatives and projects launched under his leadership, and later continued and expanded under the patronage of HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, created a genuine social safety net.Al-Thawabta pointed out that these projects and initiatives included support for the energy sector, the provision of fuel needed to operate Gaza’s power plant, and regular financial assistance to hundreds of thousands of vulnerable families to help them cope with extreme poverty resulting from the blockade. They also covered support for education, agriculture, and the fishing sector, as well as the provision of temporary employment opportunities to assist young people and graduates.Concluding his remarks to QNA, he emphasized that these development projects and relief interventions have had a profound and direct impact on the lives of Palestinians, forming a key pillar in aiding civilians living under occupation and siege, and representing a unique model worthy of emulation internationally.Editor-in-chief of Safa News Agency Mohammed Abu Qamar, said Palestinians remember with great pride the late HH the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani's stances and support he provided to strengthen the resilience of the Palestinian people, particularly in the Gaza Strip.Abu Qamar said, in exclusive statements to QNA, that these positions went beyond political statements and were reflected in practical projects that had a clear impact on the lives of Palestinians. He noted that His Highness was among the most prominent Arab leaders who defended the rights of the Palestinian people and translated that support into strategic projects, including Hamad Residential City, infrastructure initiatives, road network development, and support for the health sector. He said these projects continue to have an impact today, reflecting a practical commitment based on an understanding of Palestinian needs.Abu Qamar stressed that the approach established by the late HH the Father Amir during his rule has continued under the patronage of HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, becoming an established Qatari policy whose benefits remain visible and ongoing. He added that Qatar continues to be a true partner of the Palestinian people and a supporter of their resilience, standing by them through humanitarian and relief assistance, as well as political positions supporting their legitimate national rights, foremost among them the right to freedom, independence, and the establishment of an independent state.He concluded his remarks by saying that the passing of HH the Father Amir brought widespread sadness among Palestinians, particularly in Gaza, as they recognise the scale of his historic positions in support of their resilience and hold deep appreciation for the genuine support he provided to their cause.Writer and political analyst Mohammed Mustafa Shaheen observed that HH the Father Amir is present in the Palestinian consciousness as one of the most prominent supporters of the Palestinian cause.In remarks to QNA, Shaheen said the late HH the Father Amir's initiatives in support of Palestinians in Gaza came at a time when the Strip was facing an escalating siege and worsening humanitarian conditions. He said these initiatives carried a political and moral message affirming that Palestine was a permanent Arab and Islamic responsibility.The writer and political analyst added that HH the late Father Amir's visit to the Gaza Strip constituted a historic milestone that broke the political isolation imposed on the Strip, bringing hope to the Palestinians.He noted that the name of the late HH the Father Amir remains engraved in the Palestinian national memory due to the reconstruction projects, roads, hospitals, housing, and everything that alleviated the effects of the siege and wars.Researcher and political analyst Wissam Afifa affirmed that Palestinians remember a great leader whose name is synonymous with sincere support for the Palestinian cause and who left a political and humanitarian legacy still evident in the Gaza Strip to this day.Afifa said that the Palestinian cause during the reign of His Highness was integral to Qatar's foreign policy. This support included defending Palestinian rights, sponsoring reconciliation efforts, hosting dialogues between factions, and working to keep the issue present on both the Arab and international agendas.He recalled several key milestones during the late HH the Father Amir's era, particularly his call for an emergency Arab summit during the Israeli aggression on Gaza in late 2008, despite the political pressures facing Doha at the time. He emphasized that the late HH the Father Amir insisted that the events in Gaza required an Arab position that went beyond traditional statements of condemnation.He described His Highness's visit to the Gaza Strip in 2012 as "the most vivid memory for Gazans", explaining that it was not a mere protocol visit, but rather one that carried with it a reconstruction program and a political message affirming that Gaza was not an isolated area and that its siege should not become a fait accompli.The Palestinian researcher and political analyst pointed out that the impact of that visit was not limited to its political dimension, but extended to sustainable projects, most notably Hamad Residential City, major road projects, development initiatives, and the Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani Hospital for Rehabilitation and Prosthetics. These projects contributed to providing housing, services, and stability for thousands of Palestinian families, changing Gaza's landscape.

The First Gulf-Arab Conference for Training and Development, organised by the International Federation for Training and Development (IFTD), commenced in Cairo Friday. Themed From the Gulf to the Ocean: Bridges of Knowledge and Development, the two-day conference brings together representatives from 15 Arab countries, including a delegation from Qatar. A select group of leaders and officials from training and development institutions, government and private entities, academics, researchers, entrepreneurs, trainers, experts, representatives of research and studies institutions, media professionals, and content creators are participating. The opening session of the conference was attended by Qatar’s ambassador to Egypt and Qatar’s Permanent Representative to the League of Arab States, Sheikh Jassim bin Abdulrahman bin Mohammed al-Thani and the director-general of the Arab Organisation for Administrative Development, affiliated with the League of Arab States, Dr Nasser al-Hatlan al-Qahtani. In his address during the opening session, IFTD president Dr Dera Muajeb al-Dosari said that the conference is a continuation of a series of training and development conferences, three of which were held in Doha in 2023, 2024, and 2025. He expressed his appreciation for Egypt’s hosting of the conference and for the efforts of Qatar’s embassy in Egypt in ensuring its success. Dr al-Dosari also expressed his gratitude to His Excellency Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim al-Thani, the chairman of the conference’s strategic partner Al Faisal Holding, and to the IFTD honorary president, His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Faisal bin Qassim al-Thani. He voiced hope that the conference would be a success and represent a step towards greater co-operation and integration among Arab countries. He noted that the IFTD will hold its next conference in Oman on September 15-16, under the title of “The Family Institution Between Identity and Current Challenges”, as well as the first conference on civil diplomacy and volunteer work in Sousse, Tunisia, on September 26-27. Dr al-Dosari also mentioned the first Kuwait Conference on Training and Development, to be held on October 2-3, and announced the establishment of the International Academy for Civil Diplomacy in Tunisia. He told the Qatar News Agency (QNA) that “the main objective of the conference is to build and develop Arab human resources, considering them one of the most important resources that must be managed efficiently and effectively”. Dr al-Dosari said that the conference will include working papers and specialised sessions on topics such as digital transformation, artificial intelligence (AI), and construction and development. He indicated that the conference’s outcomes and recommendations will be submitted to civil service bureaus and human resources departments throughout the Arab world to be used in developing policies and practices related to human resource development. The first session of the conference featured a presentation of several success stories in the field of training and development, including one by Jamil Obaid Mohammed Turki on “The Community College in Qatar: A Success Story and a Model to Emulate in Higher Education”. The conference agenda included panel discussions, workshops, and specialised recommendations to keep pace with the rapid developments in education, training, and development. The aim was to establish an integrated system between education and the labour market and to formulate an implementation roadmap that would bridge the gap between the outputs of educational institutions and the rapidly evolving demands of the Gulf and Arab labour markets.  

The Next Generation School (TNG) marked its “Efforts for Excellence” team appreciation event, honouring the dedication and impact of educators, researchers, and team members who bring the school’s vision to life each day.The evening brought together distinguished guests from the Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MoEHE), embassy of Pakistan, and academic partners, including the British Council and Microsoft, alongside the wider TNG community. It created a warm space for reflection, gratitude, and shared pride in the collective efforts that strengthen student achievement and sustain a thriving learning environment — both in visible accomplishments and in the quiet commitment behind the scenes.**media[418101]**The programme opened with a celebration of achievements across campuses. CEO Shagufta Bakali said: “Our journey is not about individual brilliance alone — it is about collaboration, resilience, values, and a shared commitment to inspiring the next generation of leaders.”Highlights included reflections from TNG’s Action Research teachers, showcasing various aspects ranging from inquiry in pedagogical innovation, scouting programme to impactful lesson observations.Teachers whose students achieved the prestigious Cambridge IGCSE “Top in World” and “Top in Qatar” honours were recognised, along with teams attaining Microsoft Showcase School status and those successfully passing the QNSA audit, reaffirming TNG’s commitment to high standards and continuous quality growth.**media[418102]**Principal Ailia Rizvi shared key takeaways from recent evaluations, inviting the community to consider how schools measure what truly matters and how success should be defined to enable continuous growth and meaningful reflection.Director Riyaz Bakali reaffirmed that TNG’s promise is excellence — a promise that requires teaching with purpose and leading with humility. He emphasised that a true culture of excellence is nurtured through continuous professional development, in which educators remain committed to lifelong learning.The celebration concluded with Loyalty and Commitment Awards, a reminder that excellence is a journey powered by people who serve with heart, integrity, and purpose—shaping a future filled with possibility for every learner. 

The Ministry of Culture organized on Sunday a special international edition of its renowned "Seminar Season" in the French capital, Paris, in partnership with the Arab World Institute. Held for the first time outside the State of Qatar, the event was attended by His Excellency Minister of Culture Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Hamad Al-Thani, His Excellency Ambassador of the State of Qatar to France Sheikh Ali bin Jassim Al-Thani, His Excellency Undersecretary of the Ministry of Culture Dr. Ghanem bin Mubarak Al Ali, and the President of the Arab World Institute Jack Lang, alongside a number of ambassadors, academics, and researchers. In his address, HE Dr. Ghanem bin Mubarak Al Ali stressed that this exceptional edition of the Seminar Season reflects the Ministry's commitment to fostering continuous cultural dialogue among intellectual elites, and reaffirms the vital role of culture in promoting understanding between nations.He noted that hosting the Seminar Season at the Arab World Institute opens new horizons for creative exchange between East and West, while strengthening mutual recognition and appreciation of cultural identities. He expressed hope that the Paris edition would mark a new step in advancing cultural cooperation. HE Dr. Al Ali added that the partnership with the Institute embodies this goal, aiming to build bridges of communication with thinkers and intellectuals through cultural diplomacy that mirrors Qatar's standing at both regional and international levels. For his part, HE Sheikh Ali bin Jassim Al-Thani, Ambassador of Qatar to France, affirmed that the Minister of Culture's visit to Paris contributes to deepening cultural dialogue between Qatar and France. He described the Arab World Institute as an ideal platform for building bridges of cultural communication between the two countries, highlighting that hosting the international edition of the Seminar Season reflects the importance of the partnership with this leading global cultural institution.Meanwhile, Jack Lang, President of the Arab World Institute, underscored the importance of culture in fostering dialogue among civilizations, praising Qatar's role in promoting peace and supporting international mediation. He described the Seminar Season as an exceptional initiative and a creative platform for dialogue and communication between people. The event's first session, titled "The Future of Arab-European Cultural Dialogue," explored several key themes. Dr. Hassan Rashid Al Derham, former President of Qatar University, discussed major challenges facing dialogue between Arab and Western cultures and called for renewing the tools of dialogue to achieve deeper and more balanced engagement. Dr. Benedicte Letellier, Associate Professor at the University of La Réunion in France, highlighted the role of the Arabic language and translation in promoting Arab cultural values and strengthening intercultural understanding. She urged greater involvement of French youth in Arab cultural programs, enhanced teaching of Arabic, and the removal of linguistic and cultural barriers. His Excellency Ali Al Zainal, Qatari diplomat and academic and former Permanent Representative of Qatar to UNESCO, outlined seven key pillars of sustainable Arab-European dialogue, including mutual respect, equality, openness, tolerance, institutional and media support, and a focus on shared human values. He also highlighted the pivotal role of Qatari women and their contribution to cultural life, while criticizing Western media stereotypes of Arabs, particularly during coverage of Qatar's hosting of the FIFA World Cup 2022. Professor Jean-Baptiste Brinet, a medievalist and professor of Arabic philosophy at the University of Paris, addressed the historical roots of Western misperceptions of Arab culture, stressing that Arab civilization has long been an integral part of Europe's cultural identity. After a lively discussion, participants emphasized the need to adopt practical approaches to advancing cultural dialogue, making use of modern communication tools and empowering youth to participate in shaping intercultural exchange. The second session, titled "Arab Culture in European Capitals" and moderated by journalist Wassim Al Ahmar, featured Dr. Al Anoud Abdullah Al Khalifa, researcher at the Gulf and Arabian Peninsula Studies Unit at the Arab Center for Research and Policy Studies. She noted that the Gulf's cultural presence in France serves as a mechanism for reimagining narratives and dismantling outdated dichotomies, adding that Qatar's cultural engagement in France plays an influential cognitive role in reshaping French cultural awareness through dialogue and institutional collaboration. French playwright Mohammed Qasimi emphasized that despite its historical complexities, civilizational dialogue remains a foundation for cultural exchange and shared creativity, describing the Arab-European literary and artistic legacy as a "rich and inexhaustible cultural mosaic."Researcher Naima Yahya called for greater respect for cultural and linguistic diversity to build an inclusive cultural model capable of integrating diverse identities into a shared global framework.The Seminar Season drew wide participation from French and Arab cultural and media figures, who praised the quality of discussions and the significance of the topics addressed. They stressed the importance of continuing and expanding the initiative to further promote dialogue and cultural exchange between nations.

American researchers have discovered that a naturally occurring compound produced by the body during exercise, known as Lac-Phe, can suppress hunger by acting on specific brain neurons — a finding that could open new horizons for treating obesity and weight-related disorders. The research team, which included scientists from Stanford University School of Medicine and the Dan L Duncan Neurological Research Institute in Texas, conducted a study published in the journal Nature Metabolism. The findings showed that physical exertion reduces appetite in laboratory mice and contributes to weight loss, according to the scientific website SciTech Daily. The researchers explained that the compound Lac-Phe targets neurons in the hypothalamus region of the brain known as AgRP cells, which are responsible for triggering hunger. By suppressing the activity of these neurons, Lac-Phe enhances the function of PVH neurons that promote the feeling of fullness. Dr. Yang He, Assistant Professor at the Dan L Duncan Institute, said: "Exercise is an effective way to lose weight and prevent diseases such as diabetes and heart problems — not only by increasing energy expenditure but also through mechanisms such as appetite regulation via Lac-Phe." Although the experiments were conducted on mice, the results are promising for potential human applications. The researchers emphasized the need for further studies to understand the role of Lac-Phe in metabolic conditions such as obesity and cachexia (severe weight loss) and to develop future therapeutic interventions. Earlier studies from Stanford and Baylor have shown that Lac-Phe (N-lactoyl-phenylalanine) is formed by combining lactate — produced during intense physical activity — with the amino acid phenylalanine. Elevated levels of this metabolite were found to reduce food intake in both mice and humans after exercise, supporting its potential as a natural appetite-suppressing mechanism.

A joint scientific study conducted by researchers at the Medical Research Institute of New Zealand, in collaboration with Imperial College London, the University of Otago, Starship Children's Hospital, and the University of Auckland, has revealed a new treatment for childhood asthma. The study, conducted using a dual anti-inflammatory inhaler that combines two medications, significantly reduces asthma attacks in children compared to the current standard medication, without any additional side effects. 360 children from across New Zealand were randomly assigned to use either the dual inhaler or salbutamol when needed to relieve asthma symptoms. The study lasted for a full year, and found that the dual inhaler did not cause any differences in children's growth, lung function, or asthma control compared to the standard medication, confirming its safety. Results also showed that the inhaler combining an inhaled corticosteroid (budesonide) and a rapid-acting bronchodilator (formoterol) reduced asthma attacks by 45% compared to salbutamol, currently used as a first-line treatment. Furthermore, the attack rate in children who used the combined device was 0.23 attacks per year per participant, compared to 0.41 attacks in the salbutamol group. This means that for every 100 children with mild asthma, the number of asthma attacks could be reduced by 18 per year. Dr Lee Hatter, lead author of the study, said that this study is an important step in bridging the knowledge gap between asthma treatment methods in adults and children. It has been demonstrated, for the first time, that the combined device significantly reduces asthma attacks in children with mild asthma, which could improve asthma treatment outcomes globally. The study's findings conclude that asthma is a serious chronic disease in children that can be life-threatening. Therefore, reducing the frequency and severity of asthma attacks is a vital medical goal. This study provides strong evidence for updating pediatric asthma treatment guidelines globally, in line with adult guidelines. This could benefit millions of children worldwide with mild and moderate asthma.