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Community invites you to send your contributions with contact details and complete description of the images to [email protected]. Select images will appear in both the print edition as well as Community Instagram page @communitygt. — PHOTO ESSAY, Page 10

Tuesday, November 26, 2019 Rabia I 29, 1441 AH

Doha today: 210 - 270

COVER STORY Indecision Do you take hours to make a simple decision? You may have Fobo. P4-5

POP SPOT SHOWBIZ

I’m a human being, not Indian web shows get just a rapper, says Thug. set for the next level. Page 14 Page 15 2 GULF TIMES Tuesday, November 26, 2019 COMMUNITY ROUND & ABOUT

PRAYER TIME Fajr 4.37am Shorooq (sunrise) 6am Zuhr (noon) 11.22am Asr (afternoon) 2.24pm Maghreb (sunset) 4.45pm Isha (night) 6.15pm

USEFUL NUMBERS

Bala SYNOPSIS: It tells the story of a man who is balding DIRECTION: Amar Kaushik prematurely and how he copes up with the situation. CAST: Ayushmann Khurrana, Bhumi Pednekar, Yami Gautam THEATRES: Royal Plaza, Landmark, The Mall

Emergency 999 Worldwide Emergency Number 112 Kahramaa – Electricity and Water 991 Local Directory 180 International Calls Enquires 150 Hamad International Airport 40106666 Labor Department 44508111, 44406537 Mowasalat Taxi 44588888 Qatar Airways 44496000 Hamad Medical Corporation 44392222, 44393333 Qatar General Electricity and Water Corporation 44845555, 44845464 Primary Health Care Corporation 44593333 44593363 Qatar Assistive Technology Centre 44594050 Qatar News Agency 44450205 44450333 Q-Post – General Postal Corporation 44464444

Humanitarian Services Offi ce (Single window facility for the repatriation of bodies) Ministry of Interior 40253371, 40253372, 40253369 Frozen 2 a strange sound from the north calling her. Together with Ministry of Health 40253370, 40253364 DIRECTION: Chris Buck, Jennifer Lee her sister Anna, Kristoff , Olaf, and Sven, they embark on a Hamad Medical Corporation 40253368, 40253365 CAST: Kristen Bell, Jonathan Groff , Idina Menzel new journey beyond their homeland of Arendelle in order to Qatar Airways 40253374 SYNOPSIS: Anna, Elsa, Kristoff , Olaf and Sven leave discover the origin of Elsa’s magical powers and save their Arendelle to travel to an ancient, autumn-bound forest of kingdom. an enchanted land. They set out to fi nd the origin of Elsa’s powers in order to save their kingdom. Elsa starts to hear THEATRES: Landmark, Royal Plaza te Unqu uo ot Q “In order e to carry a positive action we must develop here a positive vision.” — Dalai Lama

Community Editor For movie timings and Kamran Rehmat further details please scan e-mail: [email protected] the QR code above with your Telephone: 44466405 mobile phone camera or visit qatarcinemas.com Fax: 44350474 Tuesday, November 26, 2019 GULF TIMES 3 ROUND & ABOUT COMMUNITY

TIME: 3pm – 10pm The exhibition will be showcasing a selection of premium regional and international perfumes and cosmetics.

After School Activities WHERE: Atelier Hobby Classes WHEN: Ongoing WHERE: Mamangam Performing Art Music and arts activities for students Centre taking place after they fi nish their day in WHEN: Saturday – Friday school includes Group Music lessons, Hip- Mamangam is an art and performance hop, Ballet, Drawing and Painting, Drama centre started with a vision of spreading Theatre & Taekwondo. Ages between 5 and 10 our knowledge, interests and experience in years old after school hours. various disciplines in arts across diff erent Gems and Jewels Exhibition hierarchies and health systems of the local countries for children and adults. WHERE: Museum of Islamic Art Tanzanian communities. Artistic Gymnastic Classes Mamangam has become the favourite WHEN: Ongoing till January 18 A collection of photographs of the wildlife, WHERE: Qatar Academy Msheireb centre for learning. We off er regular classes TIME: 9am onwards landscapes and people of Tanzania taken by WHEN: Ongoing in the following disciplines like traditional The exhibition comes in celebration of WCM-Q professor Dr Dietrich Büsselberg TIME: 3:15pm – 4:15pm classical and folk dance forms, art and the 2019 Year of Culture Qatar-India and will be exhibited. The olympic sport using horizontal bar, craft, drawing and painting, personality presents a look at magnifi cent gems and rings and fl oor exercises on mats for the development and public speaking, Bollywood jewellery from India. Set in Stone: Gems and children from age 4 till 16. dance, contemporary, hip hop styles, music Jewels from Royal Indian Courts showcases both vocals and instrumentals. To develop more than 100 pieces from across Qatar health consciousness, we train them karate, Museums’ (QM) collections, including many yoga with special sessions for kids and adults. masterpieces that have never been displayed Mamangam has also come up with chess and before. robotics in regular batches in an attempt to give a better learning experience, as they sharpen their minds and brains too. For those who wish to register for more details, visit www.mamangamqatar.in

Ballet Lessons WHERE: Music and Arts Atelier WHEN: Ongoing TIME: 4pm – 8pm For more info e-mail at registration@ atelierqatar.com or call on 33003839.

Career Guidance HEC SBUM Info Session Photo Exhibition: ‘Experience WHERE: Right Track Consultants, Al WHERE: 14th fl oor, Tornado Tower, West Tanzania’ Sadd Bay WHERE: Multaqa (Student Center) Art WHEN: Sunday – Thursday WHEN: Today Gallery at Education City TIME: 6pm – 8pm TIME: 5pm – 6:15pm WHEN: Ongoing until December 1 Career guidance for course, country, HEC Paris invites you to the next TIME: 4pm college and entrance for students of Grade Information Session for Specialised Master’s ‘Experience Tanzania’ is a yearly project IX-XII, of all curriculum. Career assessments Degree in Strategic Business Unit Management supported by Student Aff airs Division of administered for stream preference, career (SBUM). This part-time degree programme is Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar that allows test, branch preference, personality, designed as a practical foundation for managing students and faculty to explore and immerse multiple intelligence and learning styles a business. It will give you the opportunity to themselves in Tanzanian urban and rural and productivity. For more information, learn international best practice from world- cultures. During their trip, WCM-Q’s 55448835. class faculty. Find out how it will help you aspiring physicians off er basic healthcare take your career forward! The programme services to the locals as a way of giving Perfumes and Cosmetics Exhibition off ers a choice of 3 specialist tracks in General back to the community and learn about WHERE: DECC Management, Entrepreneurship and Business the lifestyles, traditions, socioeconomic WHEN: Today Development and Marketing and Sales.

Compiled by Nausheen Shaikh. E-mail: [email protected], Events and timings subject to change 4 GULF TIMES Tuesday, November 26, 2019 COMMUNITY COVER STORY Fear of better options The fear of missing out has a more anxious sibling and could stop you going to social events. Coco Khan explains what is behind the fear of better options

ndecision when the decision is simple, or the options all acceptable, is the defi ning characteristic of “fear of better These feelings are biologically options” — or Fobo — a social Iphenomenon coined by Patrick part of who we are. I call it the McGinnis, a US venture capitalist and the man known for coining the biology of wanting the best. Our term Fomo, or fear of missing out. ancestors a million years ago Fobo can occur everywhere from minor decisions — what to watch on were programmed to wait for TV, what to eat for dinner — to more signifi cant ones such as whether to the best because it meant they take a new job. Whatever the case, were more likely to succeed a Fobo-affl icted person may nd fi themselves overwhelmed by the possibilities of what might be (some call this “analysis paralysis”) even — Patrick McGinnis, when no outcome is guaranteed, and US venture capitalist when some of those options aren’t ‘ even on the table. ’ Tuesday, November 26, 2019 GULF TIMES 5 COVER STORY COMMUNITY

A common example may be overwhelming. I wanted to do McGinnis says it is a “fear of figuring out what to do on Friday everything — which is Fomo — letting go”. “In order to choose night. Sure, the invitation to but at the same time, I wasn’t something you must let go of hang out with work colleagues willing to say no to anything and another thing and it’s the fear of is convenient and guaranteed just choose one thing, which was having to mourn the road untaken. to be enjoyable, but there is Fobo. I would wait until the last So we would rather not decide at all another party across town where minute to see if a better option and keep all of our options open.” something even more fun might came along. And I realised that Maximisers set themselves high be happening. Then there’s was a pervasive behaviour at standards and are disappointed someone on Tinder who floated Harvard because of it being a when they fail to reach them Friday night as a possible date, choice-rich environment.” There is some psychological while your flatmates are heading This is the main diff erence foundation to this. Some to a restaurant opening. between Fomo and Fobo. Anyone psychologists have found that Someone with Fobo is likely with a smartphone looking when it comes to decision-making, to hold back on commitment, or over the often manipulated and people can be split into two groups: commit then cancel. unrealistic lives of others on social “maximisers” or “satisfi cers”. “I bail at the last minute, all the media might feel Fomo. But Fobo, Maximisers are people who make time” says Aoife O’Donaghue, according to McGinnis, is an issue a choice based on maximum 24, a recent graduate based in for the privileged. benefi t later on, while satisfi cers Edinburgh. Such dithering can be “Fobo is an affl iction of (a portmanteau of “satisfi ed” exhausting for friends and family affl uence,” says McGinnis. “To have and “suffi ced” fi rst coined by the who depend on someone for a fi rm Fobo you must have options. So the Nobel laureate Herbert Simon in commitment, and bring stress to richer you are, the more powerful 1956) will make choices based on a the person themselves. you are, the more options you have. modest criteria. For O’Donaghue, it’s always That’s when you start to feel it.” Maximisers, for example, may the smallest decisions she has the McGinnis doesn’t believe that pay more for a bigger car than hardest time making. She describes Fobo is restricted to the individual they actually need in case they a time at university where she either — large corporations can want a bigger one in future, was trying to fi gure out where to be affected by it (“a multinational whereas a satisficer is likely to study — the library or a cafe. “I with access to big data can pick the car that is good for now. was thinking, ‘Will I work better always find a reason to justify not Maximisers set themselves high in one place? Would I like a cup of doing something”), and so can standards and are disappointed PERSPECTIVE: “Fobo is an aff liction of aff luence. To have Fobo you must tea? Will there be enough seats?’” countries. when they fail to reach them, have options. So the richer you are, the more powerful you are, the more O’Donaghue describes working “I have come to believe that the lingering on what was lost rather options you have. That’s when you start to feel it,” says Patrick McGinnis. herself up over this for 15 minutes Brexit situation is Fobo. Fobo is the than what they have. Both have until she had a stress-induced inability to choose between one of been the subject of many studies, stomach ache. “I ended up going many acceptable outcomes. You but one from 2011 conducted to the library, and then to the cafe. may not like Brexit but there are by a team led by Joyce Erlingher So it didn’t even really matter” she plenty of acceptable ways it could from Florida State University laughs ruefully. be structured, without going to no and published in the journal So what’s going on? McGinnis, deal. But any time Mrs May brought Personality and Individual who has been researching Fomo a proposal to the Commons, she Differences aimed to explore and Fobo over several years for couldn’t get a vote because all of whether “maximisers show less his forthcoming book, and for his the MPs were waiting for a slightly commitment to their choices podcast Fomo Sapiens, argues better option.” than satisficers in a way that that Fobo is not necessarily a new On the individual level, though, leaves them less satisfied”. That human behaviour. “These feelings O’Donaghue is not entirely is, are maximisers more likely to are biologically part of who we are. convinced. “I’m a privileged be unhappy with their choice, I call it the biology of wanting the person, compared with other once they finally land on it? Their best. Our ancestors a million years people. But I don’t think the conclusion: a resounding yes. ago were programmed to wait for things I’m choosing between are “Maximisers miss out on the best because it meant they were very luxurious. I’m talking about the psychological benefi ts of more likely to succeed.” choosing dinner, or what’s on the commitment,” the authors say. But the mass introduction of telly. Maybe my problem is one of “Current research is trying to sophisticated technology and the overthinking.” understand whether they can Internet has accelerated Fomo Decision-making is a complex change. High-level maximisers and Fobo into a common social mental procedure involving several certainly cause themselves a lot of behaviour. After all, we are now of the brain’s executive functions, grief.” able to easily compare ourselves that is, the key cognitive processes Perhaps then, those with Fobo with each other (thus producing your brain uses to control your are simply maximisers facilitated feelings of Fomo) and overwhelm behaviour — from planning to by contemporary technology, or ourselves with choice (producing managing impulses. People with perhaps contemporary technology Fobo). conditions such as ADHD and is turning more of us into “Go on Amazon to buy a pair autism, where executive functions maximisers. Or maybe people just of white shoelaces and you have can be impaired, may fi nd don’t really want to do half the in excess of 200 choices, whereas themselves struggling to choose things they say they do. 50 years ago you would go to between options. Whatever the case, for Woolworths and choose between But is Fobo just an easy-to- McGinnis, correctly identifying “Fear of a better option, however, is three,” says McGinnis. “So that’s swallow euphemism for something this phenomena and giving it a the context. The other factor — more serious or taboo, such as an name is crucial in changing these more likely to be linked to or a trigger which is more emotional — is anxiety disorder? behaviours, which he sees as being that Fobo is driven by narcissism, Nicky Lidbetter, chief executive “destructive”. for a pre-existing anxiety condition because when you have Fobo, of the charity Anxiety UK, doesn’t “It’s my view that Fomo isn’t all you’re putting your own interests think so. “It is possible for anxiety bad because Fomo can be that little as opposed to being sufficient to well before anybody else’s, which to be experienced around many whisper in your ear that we should warrant being categorised as an leaves all the people around you on diff erent issues, of which a fear try something diff erent. If you see hold.” of choosing the wrong option in your friend starting a business on anxiety disorder in its own right” McGinnis himself experienced regards to big life decisions may the side, or you see your friends feelings of Fomo and Fobo when be one,” she says. “Fear of a better going on a vacation to Malta and he coined the terms in a Harvard option, however, is more likely you feel Fomo, that’s a cue to try — Nicky Lidbetter, chief executive of Business School paper 15 years ago. to be linked to or a trigger for a something else and open up your “Harvard is a place unlike pre-existing anxiety condition perspective. So a little Fomo is fi ne. charity Anxiety UK others in terms of the amount of as opposed to being suffi cient to But Fobo is not good.” opportunities you have — classes, warrant being categorised as an O’Donaghue however, is not so Neither is Hall. “It’s part of who fact, it got so late, they couldn’t social events, interviews — at your anxiety disorder in its own right.” concerned about tackling her Fobo. I am, I have always been this way” even deliver it by the time I chose disposal,” he says. “I came from So for those without pre- “I think it’s an inherent part of my he says. “Last year, it took four one.” But he is confi dent he will a simple background — a small existing conditions, what exactly personality,” she says. “People get attempts and three hours for me to get this year’s turkey soon. He has town in New England — and when is everyone afraid of? What is the used to you being like that if you’re buy a turkey, looking across M&S, already decided which one. I arrived I found it extremely “fear” in Fobo? good friends.” Waitrose, Tesco, Sainsbury’s. In — The Guardian 6 GULF TIMES Tuesday, November 26, 2019 COMMUNITY

WCM-Q students intern at research labs in Boston and Tokyo

Two Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar (WCM-Q) students recently learnt the finer points of research before examining what happens to a certain chemical compound once it is incorporate in world-class laboratories after completing summer-long overseas internships. Nasser al- into the endothelium. Khalifa said that despite the language barrier, Japan was an attractive Kuwari and Khalifa al-Sulaiti, who have both started their second year of the WCM-Q medical overseas research destination because of the high standard of education and the cutting-edge curriculum, applied to MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative diseases (MIND) at Harvard research conducted there. Khalifa said, “I was able to investigate and use all the advanced Medical School in Boston and the National Center for Global Health and Medicine in Tokyo, research methods that my institution had to off er for mimicking the brain endothelium model. respectively. Both were accepted and got to work alongside some of the world’s finest scientific Studying abroad, especially in Japan, is highly valued by employers as the experience develops minds. important skills such as cultural awareness, adaptability, determination, and patience; attributes Nasser, who went to Harvard, worked with Dr Xiqun Chen in the Department of Neurology at that are transferable to the workplace.” Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH). Prior to going, Nasser wrote that he planned to study Dr Nayef Mazloum, Assistant Professor of Microbiology & Immunology at WCM-Q And potential neuroprotective therapies in genetic models of Parkinson’s disease (PD). Assistant Dean for Student Research, said, “These internships allow students to see how He explained why he chose the subject and the research programme. He said, “As a student relevant laboratory research is to primary healthcare and teaches them to become who is not only interested in neuroscience but also neurology as a possible future speciality, independent, critical thinkers and to have to use their own initiative to find mentors and I found the MIND research internship at MGH an opportunity for me to explore both collaborators from across the world. It allows them to get outside of Qatar and network with neuroscience and neurology with world-class researchers of Parkinson’s disease. DrChen professional scientists and it shows them what it would be like to conduct research full-time as had great contributions to the progress of the understanding of Parkinson’s and developing a career.” eff ective treatments for it, specifically the association of PD with melanoma.” Nasser and Khalifa were also among several students awarded the Medical Student Research Nasser was given the opportunity by Dr Chen to be responsible for a part of the project for Award (MSRA) 2019. The MSRA is an opportunity off ered by the Research Division at WCM-Q eight weeks under the supervision of a postdoctoral researcher, presenting him with a chance to provide funding for first-year medical students to do a total of eight weeks of research in to get an insight into the challenges of research, both logistical and experimental. the summer at any location in the world. The programme also encourages the students to Khalifa applied to work with Dr Takao Shimizu and Dr Keisuke Yanagida on lipid signalling at develop important professional qualities as they take up positions in the real world contributing the National Center for Global Health and Medicine in Tokyo, saying that he hoped to develop to discoveries in the biomedical field, with responsibilities to their project, their colleagues and a system that would mimic how the brain creates a thin layer of cells called the endothelium, their host institution.

Nasser Al Ali Enterprises felicitates hard working employees

Nasser Al Ali Enterprises, an IOS certified company, recently awarded its 25 employees of various nationalities, including Nepali, Indian and Bangladeshi with each 5 gram gold coin for outstanding performance at working site. Gorkha Bahadur Rai, an employee at Nasser Al Ali Enterprises, was also felicitated with QR15,000 on the occasion, for his ten year long service at the company. Nepali expatriate from Mornag district of Nepal, Gorkha joined the company in 2008 as a helper and was later promoted to the post of civil Foreman. – Text and photo by Usha Wagle Gautam

Seven students qualify for CBSE Interschool Sports and Games Competition ’19

Seven students aged 6-14 from schools including Sports Club, Karnataka, where the all-boys team will Shantiniketan Indian School, Birla Public school and be seen participating in the 300m & 500m races, Ideal Indian School have recently qualified to take respectively. “We started this as a hobby from our part in 2019 CBSE Interschool Sports and Games very own compound. Eventually we founded an Competition. The students are set to go to India to extreme sports club that provides all kind of training represent Qatar for the first time. for roller skates. We had around 20 students in the The event is hosted by Shri Shankrling Model beginning but now we have over 100 students,” said School and will be held at Shivaganga Roller Skating Sadham Abdul Kader, Team Manager. Tuesday, November 26, 2019 GULF TIMES 7 COMMUNITY

ICC organises Kathak dance performance

Indian Cultural Centre, in association with AIMAC Qatar, recently organised a Kathak dance also at the Indian Cultural Centre in South America and Russia. performance ‘Ghunghroo’ at ICC Ashoka Hall. Thirty-five students of AIMAC Qatar, trained by The event was conducted by Nayna Wagh, Head of Cultural and Education Activities at Mousumi Saha, performed at the event. Mousumi Saha has taught in many prestigious schools ICC. Manikantan, President of ICC, welcomed the gathering and Anjan Kumar Ganguli, Joint in Delhi, India, including Army Public School, Ryan International School, Cambridge School and Secretary of ICC, proposed a vote of thanks. The artistes were felicitated on the occasion.

ACS International School Doha announces new five-year education strategy

ACS International School Doha has recently announced a new five-year education strategy that builds government and diplomacy, and creative technologies. These will be built through lasting relationships on a unique educational approach to get its students ready to succeed in a complex world filled with with leading educational, cultural and industry leaders in Qatar, as well as friends of ACS around the both challenges and opportunities. The strategy aims to empower a new kind of globally-minded world. The pathways will inspire students to connect, explore and develop their own interests. and culturally-astute citizen, able to navigate diff erence, appreciate diversity, and balance traditional “Teaching is ever changing, complex and essential. At ACS, we recognise our globalised world is identities with the demands of modern life. always evolving and tailor our students’ experience to make them ready for tomorrow, today. Through The announcement was made at a media gathering at ACS Doha, featuring keynote speakers, some of the initiatives Dr Harrison mentions, through to the delivery of the first US College Board including Dr Robert Harrison, ACS Education Strategy Director; Robert Cody, Head of School; and Advanced Placement programmes in an authentically international context, we strive to develop civic Caroline Rennie, Deputy Head of School. engagement and community service that allows our students to become eff ective agents of change,” “ACS has taken measures to reflect on the ambitions of the Qatar National Vision 2030 in line with its said Robert Cody, Head of School. Human Development pillar. Our 50-year heritage in the UK has always valued quality, internationalism In August 2020, ACS Doha will move to a new state-of-the-art, purpose-built campus, with open, light- and community. So, we are ready to carry our authentically internationally-minded education into the filled spaces to inspire exploration, innovation and collaboration for more than 2,000 students. Like future. Our focus is on inspirational teaching that leads to transformational learning. We want above ACS’s three UK campuses near London, the new school in Doha will embody the group’s longstanding all else to help our students get ready — and stay ready — to be caring contributors to the social and values and its consistent educational vision. economic prosperity of the nation, and wider world,” said Dr Robert Harrison. “We intend to challenge Robert Cody added, “A key part to our ‘ready’ story is our new campus. It represents a space where students’ assumptions and perspectives by engaging them with the world beyond the classroom,” he students can both productively learn together and confidently chart very personalised learning added. journeys. By providing students with state-of-the-art technology and services, we off er them Additionally, the ACS strategy introduces new career-ready education pathways for students in opportunities to become true global thinkers who are optimistic about the future we will build entrepreneurship and business, health and medical sciences, communications and media, and together”.

BPS organises International Kids Film Festival

Birla Public School (BPS) recently organised International Kids Film Festival featuring movies from various languages. More than 100 movies in various languages, including Russian, Italian, French, Spanish, Persian, Hindi, and Bengali were featured in the festival. Movies, including Maestro, Sam’s Dream, New Neighbours, Dog Gone, Balance, Land Without Evil, The Swimming Lesson, A Celebration, Blanket Tale, Cup of Tea, My Life in Versailles, Girl On A Mission, A Day in the Park, A Beautiful Mistake, Six Home and The little Fish and the Crocodile were screened at the event. The films encouraged children to learn more about other countries’ customs and cultures, and promote understanding. It motivated them to see the human issues in a world torn apart by war and social problems. 8 GULF TIMES Tuesday, November 26, 2019 COMMUNITY Karachi United: passing Shehar Bano Rizvi talks to the founders of Karachi United, a football club from Pakistan whose kids won U12 and U11 Tri-Series in Doha

WINNERS: The team of Karachi United U12 and U11 in a group photo.

arachi United is a football Qatar winning the hosting rights, to see Pakistan represented as the top plan which is our passion by have had formal programmes within club that was set up the programme was enthusiastically 32 teams in the World Cup because we developing our own teams. these communities. Many kids get with a vision to provide taken up by the Supreme Committee do have the pedigree. It’s a long-term So fi nally we have set up our Men’s into shady business because they a platform for achieving for Delivery & Legacy. Generation vision though. You cannot change and Women’s professional teams. It’s don’t have anything else to do in those football excellence in Amazing uses football for the culture or develop talent in a few been a long journey. Although it has areas. So what we have done is that KPakistan. Now among the premier development initiatives to address months. If you are part of the story been 20 years, in a way we are just we have tried to pull them out of there football teams in Pakistan, KU is social issues in countries with an you got to be here for 20-30 years and beginning… it’s all coming together and given them a safe space to come 5 dedicated to develop the sport of identifi ed need, in line with the United then you’ll start making waves, which now and we are cognizant of the fact times a week. football in Pakistan starting at the Nations Sustainable Development we think we are now, competing that we still got a long way to go! We give them a kit, there are very grass root level. They have over Goals. In Pakistan, Generation against Aspire, with all the facilities footballs, cones and equipment and 11 centres across Karachi, and now a Amazing (GA) has delivered the and talent they have, and proving that How many centres do you have? coaches in jerseys. It’s an organised stadium as well, where they provide programme to communities, we can compete. It is now absolutely We have 11 centres in Karachi which environment. Everybody improves free football coaching to kids from including Lyari in Karachi, Thatta in important to continue the nurturing caters over 1,000 children, including their game and understands well the underprivileged communities, Sindh and Mardan in KPK. For Lyari, process. 200 girls, which we consider a huge that they have to be disciplined and providing them educational and Pakistan’s cradle of football, GA built a change because these girls come from have to respect everybody. That’s a health assistance. Basically, they are full-size turf pitch at Karachi United’s What’s the story behind KU? underprivileged areas of Karachi. We step towards betterment and change. changing lives through football. home in Southern Karachi. Three GA To be honest, it was initiated believe that we are changing mindsets. And looking at these kids with KU was recently invited by Aspire youth ambassadors also hail from with the selfi sh reason of wanting As these girls go through the training opportunities such as coming to Qatar Academy to participate in Tri-Series. Lyari. to play ourselves. However, it grew process, they’ll realise the importance coming their way, others look upto KU bagged the Tri-Series title in U12 KU was founded by Taha Alizai, more than that when we started of sport, education and healthy living them and want to be a part of KU. and U11 categories by winning against Imran Ali and Ali Ata, who apart from our youth programme and set up a and they’ll transfer it to the next So our community programme Fenerbahce SK and Aspire Academy, their day jobs, dedicate themselves Karachi league in 2003, set up school generation to come. So it’s about the when it started was to make a respectively. towards the academy and the football championship in 2005, started having small steps that we take today. So we profound impact on youth. For us, Most of the players of KU are the little champs. tours abroad like Charlton Club and are trying to build an institution that sustainability means consistency. kids who come from underprivileged Community recently sat down with Qatar. In 2009 we realised that we will carry its legacy forward. We don’t want to exponentially grow community of Lyari, a slum in Taha Alizai and Imran Ali to talk about were aff ecting two spheres – one was and have hundred centres and then Karachi, Pakistan. Some of them have Karachi United and founding it from football excellence and the other was How has it helped the 2 years later 90 of them close down. had never been on a plane before, scratch. the community. For a lot of people, community? We have tried to keep it small and whilst few others who did, was only these are very distinct areas – you We organise a lot of community focused. Also the way we look at because of their participation in KU. What was the vision behind are looking at talent development or tournaments. When we used to play in sustainability is that we want to make KU has been coming to Doha for the Karachi United? you are looking at the community. DHA Karachi, we used to invite teams sustainable communities, by getting previous few years to take part in KU was created to develop a sport For us, the two were intertwined. We from Lyari for the tournament. They them out, getting them to play, even football tournaments and matches. in Pakistan that was non-existent, decided we can make an impact in would come on their cycles just to getting the mothers to come out and KU works closely with Generation to build up an industry that would our community through our centres play on a grass pitch under the lights. play. The idea is to make healthier, Amazing, a programme that was not only provide hope for millions by doing free football coaching, One of their coaches, Rustam told us active and more engaged community. established in 2010 of children, which we feel it is doing educational assistance, health that their team usually plays on mud It’s been almost 6 to 7 years, since we during Qatar’s bid to host the today, but also create employment assistance while simultaneously pitches in their area. It’s a step change have formally started our community 2022 FIFA World Cup. Following opportunities, with an aim for one day working on the football development for the community because now we programmes where professional Tuesday, November 26, 2019 GULF TIMES 9 COMMUNITY g on hope with football “Karachi United was created to develop a sport in Pakistan that was non-existent, to build up an industry that would not only provide hope for millions of children, which we feel it is doing today, but also create employment opportunities, with an aim for one day to see Pakistan represented as the top 32 teams in the World Cup because we do have the pedigree” — Taha Alizai and JOURNEY: Taha Alizai, left, and Imran Ali, founders of KU, talk about their journey of forming a club in supporting communities. Imran Ali, Founders of KU

doctors/medical students also talk to them about sanitation, hygiene and sometimes they just need access to professionals to talk to in their own confi nes. In our recently crafted Sponsor a Child programme, we have bunked in education as well, because until they can think fast enough, they won’t be able to do fast enough. Critical thinking is very important, and therefore education is very important.

How do you guys manage KU with your other full-time jobs? We have about 10-12 full-time staff which includes a community administrator, a community programme manager, brand manager, an academy manager and social media manager, and we have recently hired someone to look after fundraising from a sustainability perspective and some coaches. There are 150 other part-time coaches. Some of the coaches are from their own communities and some of them are former national team players. So in a way, KU not only gives hope to the younger kids but to others that can be leaders in their community. What keeps us going is our passion. It helps us release stress from our day jobs. We give about 2.5 hours of our day, every day to these kids, either early morning before work or after work or sometimes even during lunch breaks! Also, we have to give credit to our supporting spouses, who understand our passion for the game. POWER HIT: Karachi United player takes an aim during the tournament. 10 GULF TIMES Tuesday, November 26, 2019 COMMUNITY PHOTO ESSAY

TThehe wwaitait isis ooverver

As someone who was born and brought up in Qatar, one thing that many residents of this country will agree with me on is the year-long wait for the winter to come and fi nally provide some relief from the scorching heat. Though winter is usually short-lived in Qatar, it does serve its purpose of refreshment well. I have always loved the last two months of the year in Qatar. It’s amazing to see how much the change of weather actually impacts your life and routine. Late night hangouts with friends, cozying up on a lazy Friday, drinking a hot beverage while going on a long drive; all of these things contribute towards an amazing end to the year. Many people outside Qatar may see the short-lived winter as a negative thing but it actually makes us savour every moment of it when it comes around. — Photos by Farhad Haroon (@farhadhrq), Text by – Bilal Yusaf Khan (@bilalyusafkhan) Tuesday, November 26, 2019 GULF TIMES 11 LIFESTYLE/HOROSCOPE COMMUNITY Shaking head to remove water from ears causes brain damage

haking head is one of the For adults, the acceleration was most common methods lower due to the larger diameter people use to get rid of the ear canals. They said the of water in their ears, overall volume and position of but it can also cause the water in the canal changes the Scomplications as researchers have acceleration needed to remove it. found that trapped water in the “From our experiments and ear canals can cause infection and theoretical model, we figured brain damage. out that surface tension of the Researchers at Cornell fluid is one of the crucial factors University and Virginia Tech in promoting the water to get stuck US, revealed that shaking the head in ear canals,” said Baskota. to free trapped water can cause Luckily, the researchers said brain damage in small children. there is a solution that does not “Our research mainly focuses involve any head shaking. on the acceleration required to “Presumably, putting a few get the water out of the ear canal,” drops of a liquid with lower said Indian-origin researcher and surface tension than water, like study author Anuj Baskota from alcohol or vinegar, in the ear Cornell University. would reduce the surface tension “The critical acceleration that force allowing the water to flow we obtained experimentally on out,” Baskota said. glass tubes and 3D printed ear The study was presented at canals was around the range of the American Physical Society’s 10 times the force of gravity for Division of Fluid Dynamics 72nd infant ear sizes, which could cause Annual Meeting on November 23 damage to the brain,” Baskota in Washington State Convention said. Center in Seattle, US. – IANS

ARIES TAURUS GEMINI March 21 — April 19 April 20 — May 20 May 21 — June 20

Do you work with a lot of documents, Aries? If so, you might find A missed communication – or miscommunication – with a friend Today you could find that you’ve left something at home, perhaps today that some of the papers you need are missing. They might could find you waiting in the wrong place, Taurus. If you’re planning a book or letter that you need. There’s no way around it, Gemini, seem to have vanished into a black hole. Look everywhere, of to get together with a friend tonight, make sure you get the full you’ll have to go back. This could make you late. Stay calm! This is a course, but chances are that someone has them and isn’t aware of details of the location, including the exact address, cross street, and temporary irritation that will pass. Making yourself crazy over it will it. Don’t be too shy to ask people about the papers. You could save driving directions. Write it down! And don’t forget to note the time. only stress you out. At lunch, treat yourself to a soothing cup of tea. yourself a lot of unnecessary eff ort this way. CANCER LEO VIRGO June 21 — July 22 July 23 — August 22 August 23 — September 22

You may need to spend a lot of time in the car today, Cancer. You Paperwork involving money may need doing today, Leo, and this An unhappy visitor, probably a woman, could come to your home could hit traff ic and miss some of the people you need to see. could take you away from what you love most – working on your today, Virgo. This person has a lot of anger right now and probably Irritations could quickly turn to anger if you aren’t careful. Park your own projects and spending time with a friend. Don’t get too crazy won’t make much of a conversationalist. If you can’t make your car and walk to some of the places. This will get you out of the crush over it or you might make mistakes. Correcting those errors would excuses, put on some music or perhaps a funny movie. You might be of cars and work off your frustration at the same time. eat up more time. Take care of it methodically and quickly and you’ll surprised at the results! Some soothing chords or a few laughs might be able to get back to your life. accomplish wonders. Be clever! LIBRA SCORPIO SAGITTARIUS September 23 — October 22 October 23 — November 21 November 22 — December 21

Have you been expecting an important letter, Libra? If so, it may Money worries could have your nerves on edge, Scorpio. It’s better A lot of tedious paperwork is probably waiting for you, and you will not arrive for a while. If it doesn’t appear today, call the person who to focus on doing what you have to do to resolve your diff iculties want to get it done as quickly as possible. You might be distracted sent it and ask for a duplicate because the original could be lost in than it is to waste time fretting over them. Your business head and irritated by everyone goofing off . Don’t worry about everyone the mail. Better to have two copies than wait for one that will never is operating at a high level today. If you stay focused, you can else. Concentrate on your own work. You will only cause further come. accomplish wonders. Formulate a plan of action and put it to work. irritation by getting upset with everyone. You will be done with your tasks when they’re just getting started on theirs! CAPRICORN AQUARIUS PISCES December 22 — January 19 January 20 — February 18 February 19 — March 20

Some facts that you may need for certain projects might prove You should pay attention to your dreams, Aquarius, but tonight your A miscommunication with a business partner might cause some ruff led elusive today, Capricorn. No matter what website or periodical you subconscious might send you some garbled information that means feathers today, Pisces. You can divert this by explaining the facts clearly consult, you’ll probably come across some interesting stuff but not next to nothing. If the message is obvious, pay attention to it, but if whenever you give information. Make sure your partner understands exactly what you’re looking for. If the task isn’t urgent, it might be a you have to perform too many mental gymnastics to discern what what you’re saying before they go and act on it! For your own part, don’t good idea to put it off for a bit. Otherwise you’ll spend too much time the symbols mean, they might mean nothing. Sometimes a dream is be shy about asking what someone means. Remember, it’s better to ask looking for the impossible. just a dream. a stupid question than make a dumb mistake! 12 GULF TIMES Tuesday, November 26, 2019 COMMUNITY CARTOONS/PUZZLES

Wordsearch Adam

Pooch Cafe

ARCHDUKE REGENT SULTAN GENERAL CAPTAIN COMMANDER QUEEN KING PANJANDRUM BIGWIG RULER TOP BANANA HEADMAN CHAIRMAN DIGNITARY RAJAH SOVEREIGN PRESIDENT BOSS CHIEFTAIN EMPEROR HONCHO MONARCH PRINCE

Codeword Every letter of the alphabet is used at least once. Squares with the same number in have the same letter in. Work out which number represents which letter.

Garfield Puzzles courtesy: Puzzlechoice.com courtesy: Puzzles

Sudoku

Bound And Gagged

Sudoku is a puzzle based on a 9x9 grid. The grid is also divided into nine (3x3) boxes. You are given a selection of values and to complete the puzzle, you must fill the grid so that every column, every anone is repeated. Tuesday, November 26, 2019 GULF TIMES 13 PUZZLES COMMUNITY

Super Cryptic Clues Colouring

Across Down 7 Red US state? (5,6) 1 Therefore a monstrous giant 8 Be united with company retires (4) present (6) 2 Footballers seldom seen at 9 Daniel, in play, saying it isn’t home? (6) so (6) 3 Rose - a beautiful woman in 10 Virginia upset young female red (8) subordinate (6) 4 American editor is not new 12 Country having outbreak of (4) rabies? (6) 5 Flag for prohibitionist? (6) 13 European Monetary Union 6 Trade is in it for a dreamer (8) gets the bird (3) 11 Verse set to music for high 14 Provided a speech to read fliers? (8) out (6) 12 Fishy menu with bass and 16 Very old, and swimming in rays (8) Tyne (6) 15 A Spanish city that may be 18 Lose a thousand on a looted (6) Scottish isle (6) 17 Stockings only ordered by 20 High praise you gel you Poles (6) formed (6) 19 Some very early period of 22 Tender names? (11) time (4) 21 Cut wood with force (4)

Solution Answers

Wordsearch Codeword 14 GULF TIMES Tuesday, November 26, 2019 COMMUNITY POP SPOT I’m a human being, not just a rapper, says Thug

riminal records and rap for more than 24 hours. stars so often seem to go His 2015 mixtape, Barter 6, hand in hand. Atlanta was Thug’s major commercial rapper Young Thug is solo breakthrough. It peaked at no exception. Also like number 22 on the Billboard 200. Cso many other rappers, his criminal This position was matched by I’m activity began early. He spent Up in 2016, the year when Thug four years in a juvenile detention became a main player in the music programme after breaking the arm business. Slime Season 3 hit number of his schoolteacher. seven on the Billboard 200 and each “I started on the streets when I subsequent mixtape, plus his Slime was about eight or nine years old,” Language compilation album, all recalled the man born as Jeff ery found places in the top ten. Williams. “I was still going to He shared the 2019 Song of the school but I did what I wanted to do Year Grammy Award for his work after school fi nished. I was on the on Childish Gambino’s This Is streets, fi ghting, doing all kinds of America. But Thug’s success has stuff .” now culminated with his Billboard The tenth of 11 children, street 200 chart-topping album, So Much life was common to all of his Fun. It has also taken pole position brothers. One was shot dead while on the Canadian albums chart, Thug was in elementary school. reached number nine in the UK Another was imprisoned for and proved hugely popular on the murder. Despite this, Thug never international market. contemplated the possibility of Yet his musical output has now avoiding life on the streets. become only one aspect of Thug’s “That was the way things were. RAP WEIRDO: Young Thug wants to see himself on top of the world in ten years. career. He has developed his own It was the same when my teacher clothing line, SPIDER, and founded tried to stop me doing what I as different from other rappers. over a 13-month period. songs to create and people who the YSL record label. One of his wanted to do in the classroom. I He doesn’t so much write Thug’s fourth mixtape, wanted me to write and record with YSL artistes, Gunna, guests on his took him out, broke his arm. I got lyrics as freestyle in the vocal 2013’s 1017 Thug, did not make them. I took whatever off ers came smash hit latest single, Hot. kicked out of school, did time in booth. His words are sometimes the Billboard 200 but was along. My attitude was that I had to “I stepped away from just being juve, that was how things were.” slurred beyond understanding unquestionably his breakthrough keep the money coming in.” an artiste when I started signing Behind prison bars is where and the lyrics can be complete into mainstream consciousness. Working on 76 tracks in two people to my label. I became a fan. 28-year-old Thug might now gibberish. Yet critics hail these Numerous publications and years certainly achieved this I started noting the type of music be if it was not for his musical characteristics along with his Internet websites placed 1017 objective. Word is that Thug was I want to hear from my artistes. I ability. Even as an established penchant for shouting, whining Thug on their list of the year’s best on 50,000 USD just for a verse. want them to deliver for the fans.” rapper, he has had more than his and singing all in the same song mixtapes or albums. Despite never The money fuelled his gambling Despite the ongoing success of fair share of legal troubles. His while contorting his voice into a being released as a single, the track habit. His passion is shooting So Much Fun, Thug already has list of charges includes battery, multitude of tones. Picacho was named in lists of 2013’s dice, something which friends another album, Punk, ready for felony gun possession and felony He has been called best songs. have suggested Thug loves even release. drug possession. He has actually “extraordinarily distinctive” and Commercial singles success more than rapping. This is despite “It’s fi lled with music the world been fortunate in that many of the “the most infl uential rapper of came the following year when seeing his brother Bennie killed will embrace. It’s real rap, songs charges have had to be dropped the 21st century.” He has also been Stoner peaked at number 47 on the over a gambling dispute. which let people in, let them know owing to technical irregularities. called “a rap weirdo” although the Billboard Hot 100. Thug also found His three Slime Season mixtapes, what you go through, let them Drug dealing or rap were his two same review states that “Thug’s himself in demand to work with plus the Super Slimey joint mixtape know you’re the same. I want career possibilities. He chose the charisma, unhinged fl ow and hooks other artistes. The most successful with Future, take their titles from people to know I’m a human being, latter. make his music intriguing.” of these collaborations was with Thug’s gambling nickname. His not just a rapper.” “I fi gured anyone could rap if He was fi rst heard on record in Rich Homie Quan on Lifestyle mother, aff ectionately known With his ever growing music and they have brains. They might not be 2010 as a guest on TruRoyal’s She which reached number 16 on the as Mama Duck, hates gambling. business success, where does Thug the best rapper or have a successful Can Go and Cash Out’s I Got It. His Hot 100. Hardly surprising when it cost the see himself ten years from now? career but they could make a living own output began in June, 2011, “I was basically living in life of one of her sons. But Thug “You know where. Top of the so I decided to go with it.” with I Came From Nothing, the fi rst the studio around that time. I will always do what he wants and world, no doubt. The place where Thug’s style marks him out of three mixtapes he self-released sometimes even slept there. I had sometimes gambles continuously everybody wants to be.”

reign, may this avenue of stars grow Trolling and cyber- have thicker skin, I don’t know, and grow because we have the best bullying have become all too but I’m done trying to fight back.” music industry in the world.” commonplace. James’ social media accounts in brief Madness, who actually hail from English singer / songwriter will now be handled by his Camden Town, will be the second James Arthur is the latest star to representatives. honourees early next year. The abandon his Twitter account. His latest album, You, was The Who the 1960s as a place where talented plan then is to add up to 20 more “My real fans have been released last month and peaked music artistes are nurtured and stones per year. The awardees will wonderfully supportive. I’ve at number two on the UK chart. Veteran UK rockers The Who developed. be selected by an international jury received tremendous messages Seven tracks have so far been have become the fi rst band to be Who stars Roger Daltrey and of musicians and those who work in from them. But I’ve also had a released as singles. honoured with a stone on the Music Pete Townshend unveiled the stone the music industry. The goal is that constant stream of negativity and The incredibly moving Walk of Fame in the Camden Town honouring their band. It is located being celebrated with a Music Walk verbal abuse from other people. video for the latest of these, area of London. outside The Jazz Cafe at 5, Parkway. of Fame stone will soon become one I’ve suffered in silence but all the Quite Miss Home, can be Founded by British music Roger was particularly enthusiastic of the highest accolades of popular nasty comments have left me with seen at www.youtube.com/ promoter Lee Bennett, his about the Walk of Fame. music. crippling anxiety and poor mental watch?v=DxNApvfnASM inspiration came from time spent “Camden’s roots with the health. Many more of James’ music living in California and seeing the music business go way back,” he James Arthur “Some of the things on my videos, audio postings and live Hollywood Walk of Fame. The remarked. “The place has a really account go too far and really hurt. performances are posted at siting in Camden was chosen as good history of supporting music. Many people believe social If the haters wanted to hurt me www.youtube.com/channel/ the district has been famous from So may the Walk of Fame long media does more harm than good. then they’ve won. Maybe I should UCV5Gw7GGOMxe6SSF6llp_3Q Tuesday, November 26, 2019 GULF TIMES 15 SHOWBIZ COMMUNITY

Swift breaks Michael Jackson’s How Williams’ near-death record at AMA experience changed him

Singer Taylor Swift has won six awards at Singer Robbie Williams says it took this year’s American Music Awards (AMA), nearly dying to change the way he lives. taking her all-time total to 29. With this, The former Take That star “knows Taylor surpasses the record of late pop king how lucky I am” after a healthscare left Michael Jackson’s record of 24. him close to death in 2017. Williams The 29-year-old star was honoured became seriously ill while backstage at with the prestigious artiste of the decade a stadium gig in Zurich and spent seven and artiste of the year accolades, as well days in intensive care after doctors as favourite artiste – adult contemporary, discovered “abnormalities” on his brain, favourite album – pop/rock for Lover, reports thesun.co.uk favourite music video for You need to calm He said: “I’ve refocused my life and all down, and favourite female artiste – pop/rock, the extremities in it. It’s probably why reports metro.co.uk I am on such good form today. It takes Swift has been embroiled in a high-profi le nearly dying for someone like me to feud with Scooter Braun and Scott Borchetta. change the way they live. REFOCUSED: Robbie Williams says: “I’ve She has earlier revealed that they are “I’ve always thought I was protected refocused my life and all the extremities preventing her from using her old music for and I’ve gone out of my way to test in it.” the award show and a Netfl ix documentary. that hypothesis. Like a cat, I’ve had a While accepting the awards, Swift said: billion lives. But this was the closest and debilitating and I am far too sensitive. “The last year of my life has had some of the RECORD BREAKER: Taylor Swift has won six scariest. I also had this feeling that I was So today I will go to bed and I won’t most amazing times and also some of the awards at this year’s American Music Awards. immortal. But all is okay with my brain have had any drink or drugs, apart from hardest things I’ve gone through in my life and now.” Nicorette gum. not a lot of them are things that haven’t been feeling bad about yourself. But the people Williams, who has been sober for 19 “If I did, I’d be less of a dad, less of a public. And I wanted to thank you so much that hang in there for you are the ones that years, is no longer tempted by drink or partner, less of a pop star and less of a for being the thing that has been a constant in you will never forget. ‘This year for me has drugs. friend. But I have a rawness that rubs up my life. been a lot. It’s been a lot of good, a lot of really He said: “I thought weed being against the world and so there have been “Like, this industry is really weird. You complicated. And so on behalf of my family legalised and available in LA might times I wanted to take that pain away. feel like your stock is either up or down and and me, thank you so much for being there be a problem but so far so good. The So far so good. Boxing and golf are my people either like you or they don’t or you’re and for caring.” – IANS weed there is so insanely strong. It’s so addictions now.” – IANS Indian web shows get set for the next level ones, follow-ups are happening in By Natalia Ningthoujam the OTT world aplenty. Amazon Prime is also bringing back some of its hit shows – Inside acred Games, starring Saif Edge being one of them, and its Ali Khan and Nawazuddin actress Richa Chadha has promised Siddiqui, was brought her fans that the new season has a back by Netfl ix India this much more gripping and power- year owing to the huge packed storyline. Ssuccess of season one. The crime “My character Zarina Malik has thriller isn’t the only Indian web transformed very interestingly show that got renewed for a new since the fi rst season. In the fi rst season. There are other shows season, Zarina tried to do things that have cleared the “acid test of in a rightful manner but she faced content”, too. a lot of obstacles. Now she is The big question for all OTT questioning herself, as to why this shows returning with new seasons is happening, why she is doing this, is: Will these taste the success while it only puts her in trouble. of their fi rst parts? Or, will these The character goes into that tussle underwhelm, as the new season of over going into the dark side of Sacred Games did earlier this year? matters,” Richa had said. Soon after Sacred Games 2 Breathe 2 is another show the premiered in August, it led to viewers are eagerly waiting for, not divided reactions among netizens. only because of its content but also Many memes comparing both because it will be actor Abhishek the seasons flooded the Internet. Bachchan’s foray into the digital TEST OF CONTENT: Sacred Games, a crime thriller, isn’t the only Indian web show that got renewed for a new season. Those disappointed with the space. second season of the series went Mirzapur 2, starring Pankaj even more powerful than the fi rst “After the resounding success which are set for a new season are on to use images of old and torn Tripathi and Ali Fazal, is expected season,” an ALTBalaji spokesperson of the fi rst season, we are now Kehne Ko Humsafar Hain season 3, clothes, broken cars, and stills to arrive in 2020. Four More said. launching an even more intriguing Baarish 2, PuncchBeat 2 and Gandii from Games Of Thrones to express Shots Please 2 and Zoya Akhtar’s “We have around 50 original web second season that features the Baat Season 4. themselves. Made in Heaven 2 have also been series and the highest number of Internet sensation and audience’s Speaking about the upcoming Cricket-themed Selection Day, announced. sequels for them so far, starting favourite couple Varun Sood and new seasons of their shows, focusing on the stories of Radha The trend of renewals can be seen with the critically-acclaimed Divya Agarwal. Adding to the the characters that “we have and Manju, returned to Netfl ix in on Ekta Kapoor’s ALTBalaji too. Broken…But Beautiful, on hype and frenzy and ensuring we introduced through our shows April. Some found it just “okay”, “We believe that sequels (new November 27, which depicted the break the Internet, the franchise have created a strong impression others thought the drama was seasons) are the acid test of the journey of Veer and Sameera and will have a special item number on viewers. We aim to build on inspiring. content. Sequels are made only their life of heartbreak.” Hello Ji! featuring none other than this legacy while adding more Despite a few shows not living when the content is successful Another show on ALTBalaji, gorgeous Sunny Leone,” shared the interesting elements to keep them up to expectations in their new and one has to create further pull which has left behind a legacy is spokesperson. current and relevant,” said the seasons as compared to original and push on the sequel for it to be Ragini MMS. Other shows in the pipeline, ALTBalaji spokesperson. – IANS 16 GULF TIMES Tuesday, November 26, 2019 COMMUNITY QU’s Foundation Program to hold 4th international conference on English

COMMITTEE: From left, Andrew Imrie, Okon Eff iong, Mohammad Manasreh, Jessica Westbrook, and Sara Salmeh. Photos by Ram Chand

in Language Curriculum for The By Mudassir Raja 21st Century’. The two-day-long “Every year we try to address certain conference will take place on December 14 and 15. The conference themes that we feel are needed and anguage is a living has become a signifi cant event thing. It changes when it comes to learning English that are going to benefi t the attendees. with time. Especially in Qatar. with globalistion, it is Community recently interacted This year we are discussing becoming more and more with the management committee neutralised.L Therefore, the focus of the conference and discussed curriculum development because we is increasingly being placed on how significant the conference comprehension and understanding. will be in learning and teaching feel that it is going through change in When it comes to the English English. The committee members language, it is a very important are namely: Mohammad educational institutions” language because it is one of the Manasreh, Head of Department; main medium to communicate Okon Effiong, Lecturer of English — Mohammad Manasreh, and interact with each other and Conference Committee internationally. English language Chair; Sara Salmeh, Engagement Head of Foundation Program has become the most important and Communications Specialist; language for people in many parts Jessica Westbrook, Lecturer of Department of English of the world, and it is playing a English and Lead for Program major role in many sectors like Administration; and Andrew variety of options. Every year we conference. What makes it unique education, medicine, engineering Imrie, Lecturer of English. try to address certain themes that is that a lot of presenters come from and business. Explaining the objectives of the we feel are needed and that are this context. They can fi nd and The Foundation Program conference, Mohammad Manasreh going to benefi t the attendees. This address the needs that they have. Department of English is said: “The objective of the primary levels get an opportunity to year we are discussing curriculum The wonderful thing is that it is committed to developing students’ conference is to share knowledge develop professionally. It remains a development because we feel in their context. Event presenters English language profi ciency to a and network. We have a variety of meeting point for English language that it is going through change in from Qatar are coming from diverse level that will allow them to succeed topics under one main theme that is teachers in the country. We have educational institutions. In the backgrounds.” in the academic programmes of ‘Critical thinking in Language and opened up to the delegates from foundation programme, we always Okon Effi ong said: “We want to Qatar University. Curriculum Development in the outside Qatar. We have presenters try to improve our curriculum. make the conference very inclusive. Through innovative, research- 21st Century. We have 400 to 500 from Oman, Kuwait, UK, India, and Hopefully, this conference will In addition to the main theme, based educational practices, the delegates to attend the conference.” Pakistan and even from Malaysia. It provide insights to the educators we also have sub-themes which programme aims to help students Andrew Imrie said: “Through is quite international in nature.” intended the conference when how defi nite areas of diff erent interests.” achieve academic readiness by the conference, we try to reach Jessica Westbrook said: “The to best implement their curriculum Mohammad Manasreh said: fostering their intellectual curiosity. out to the wider community. It is conference is seen as a great change policies and projects.” “Even the conference organisers As they develop their knowledge not just teachers working at the opportunity for teachers over the Okon Effi ong said: “We liaison come from diff erent backgrounds through study skills and critical university level. It is also for high years to attend several sessions in a with the Ministry of Education to and so are the attendees. On top thinking, students will integrate school teachers in Qatar. We have row. It has a lot of practical teaching know what their teachers actually of that, we will have the exhibitors independent and collaborative noticed that over the past years, the tips as well as research. There is need. They do need analysis and who come from diff erent publishing learning with the appropriate use of conference has been very popular something for everyone.” provide us with the information.” houses. The publishers are very information technology. among the teaching community In response to a question about When asked how the cultural sensitive. They study the The department is all set and we would like to build on that.” how the conference has been international conference copes with local context before they provide to organise the 4th Annual Okon Effi ong said: “The bringing in new topics, Mohammad people from diverse backgrounds, the material for the market. We International Conference and conference keeps growing. The Manasreh said: “The themes Jessica Westbrook said: “There is also have teachers from 30 diff erent Exhibition titled ‘Critical Thinking teachers from secondary and continue to change. There are a something for everybody in this nationalities in the department.”