Doha: In the inspiring surroundings of the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA), and with a gentle breeze blowing across the outdoor terrace, the winning, young Ta’allum writers were presented with their awards.
The accolades were for their creative endeavours in the MIA ‘Reading and Writing Challenge’ awards ceremony. Nearly 40 students created short stories which were published in a print edition entitled ‘Qatar Stories’. The ceremony was attended by MIA staff, proud parents, leaders and teachers from the Ta’allum Academies. It was wonderful occasion, returning to such an event after so long restricted by the pandemic.
The MIA ‘Reading and Writing’ Challenge has become an established feature of Ta’allum’s learning calendar.
Ta’allum issued special thanks to Head of the MIA library, Susan Parker Leavy; Director of Learning and Outreach, Salem Al Aswad and the whole MIA team who dedicated so much of their time, working in partnership with Ta’allum. It is a special community partnership for Ta’allum.
The competition is the brainchild of Senior Librarian at Al Maha Boys’ Academy, Mumtaz Moosa. She has been a driving force in the success of the competition. The students’ adopted varied and ingenious story themes, often futuristic and portentous, sometimes patriotic, surprising, funny, adventurous, and always entertaining.
Ta’allum’s Director of Education, Dr. Mohammed Saefan, stressed Ta’allum’s commitment to the development of literacy skills, reading and writing, when he said: “In this modern era of soundbites and instant communication, learning the craft of writing seems more important than ever. Reading and Writing are fundamental to ‘functioning’ in society, to developing minds and imagination and to how we discover new things.
Ta’allum’s CEO, Ahmed Al Mannai expressed his admiration for the winners’ exploits, saying, “It is with great pleasure that I express my appreciation and support for the MIA Reading and Writing Challenge. I congratulate the many students of Al Jazeera, Al Maha Boys and Al Maha Girls’ Academies whose stories grace the pages of this fine compilation. Congratulations to everyone on your achievements. I wish you all continued success and great enjoyment of reading and writing in the future.”
