All pictures by Salim Matramkot / The Peninsula
Doha, Qatar: Qatar Foundation, in partnership with the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, under the slogan ‘Education is everyone's responsibility,’ hosts International Day of Education.
The event was held in the presence of H H Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation; H E Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, Vice-Chairperson and CEO of Qatar Foundation for Education and several other dignitaries.
H H Sheikha Moza during the opening ceremony emphasized the importance of protecting the Arabic language as it is the very essence of culture and history and national identity.
She added that the Arabic language is a reflection of identity, history, and culture.
International Day of Education activities at Qatar Foundation aim to inspire public and private entities and individuals across society, to actively champion and elevate the standard of education throughout Qatar.
Several thought-provoking discussions, workshops, and activities, and an interactive exhibition featuring educational programs are being held throughout the day at the Ceremonial Court in Education City.
The opening session, ongoing at the time of reporting, was a panel discussion on how Language and Identity are everyone’s responsibility by QF’s Pre-University Education (PUE), where experts and officials highlighted the need to increase teaching and learning in the Arabic language. It also focused on the role family, community and media play in protecting, promoting, and re-enforcing Arabic language and identity.
This will be followed by several other discussions including a dialogue with students discussing if education fulfills the students’ needs? by Qatar Debate Center; and a session titled Education under Attack 2023 by Education Above All.
The International Day of Education marked on January 24, aims to foster strong partnerships between schools and families, improve education quality, and enhance student performance. It encourages collaboration among government entities, the private sector, and NGOs to localize education and curriculum, fostering national identity. The day promotes public awareness of education's vital role in achieving sustainable development goals and advocates for inclusive education, ensuring opportunities for all. Furthermore, it emphasizes lifelong learning, supporting ongoing education and vocational training for personal and professional skill development.
As part of the afternoon events, QF's Doha International Family Institute will highlight the importance of building a supportive environment for children and youth. This will be followed by a Hamad Bin Khalifa University discussion on the role of technology in inclusive and specialized education.
