Pre-University Education Higher Education ANNUAL Research, Development, and Innovation Community Development Global Initiatives REPORT
qf.org.qa Established in 1995 through the vision of His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the Father Amir, and Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Qatar Foundation (QF) was born of the belief that a sustainable future for Qatar and the Arab world must be forged by homegrown talent. Over the quarter of a century since, QF has been investing in Qatar’s greatest resource – people – every day, giving them the tools and the opportunity to play their part in shaping the future. Through its unique ecosystem of knowledge – spanning pre-university and higher education; research, development, and innovation; and community development – QF provides platforms that enable and empower people of all ages, cultures, and backgrounds to learn, create, innovate, and contribute to building a stronger Qatar and a better world. Contents
04 Qatar Foundation Boards
Providing the 06 Pre-University Education opportunity to 22 Higher Education make a difference 40 Research, Development, and Innovation
As we mark our 25th anniversary at QF, I am truly proud of the path we’ve traveled. 56 Community Development We have built together an environment that produces knowledge, generates ideas, and nurtures talent. A platform for global dialogue. A laboratory for discovering solutions to 72 Global Initiatives the world’s challenges. However, the real value of QF will always lie in the significant impact we’ve made on people’s lives. These past 25 years have been shaped by the students and communities we’ve served. Their hunger for learning, their disregard for perceived limits, and their constant pursuit of new horizons. Together we have cultivated the kind of relentless optimism needed to confront challenges, big and small. Focusing our efforts on the pursuit of knowledge; in advancing human, social, and economic development through education; and in serving as a custodian of the language and heritage of the Arab world. We owe this pioneering spirit to Qatar. It is Qatar that makes QF special, and unique. We will never lose sight of this. As we turn to what the next stage of QF’s journey holds, we do so with a clear compass: providing opportunity for everyone to find their calling, create, and empower others on their way to making a difference as citizens of this earth. These are long-term pursuits, and at QF we are in it for the long haul.
Her Excellency Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani Vice Chairperson and CEO, Qatar Foundation Qatar Foundation Boards
Board of Trustees
Chairperson: Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser Member: Her Excellency Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani Member: Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad Al Thani Member: His Excellency Sheikh Mohammad Bin Hamad Al Thani Member: His Excellency Sheikh Jassim Bin Abdulaziz Al Thani Member: Engineer Saad Bin Ebrahim Al Muhannadi His Highness Sheikh His Highness Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani The Father Amir and The Amir of Qatar Founder of Qatar Foundation’ Board of Directors
Chairperson: Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser Vice Chairperson: Her Excellency Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani Member: His Excellency Dr. Mohammed Bin Saleh Al-Sada Member: His Excellency Dr. Abdulla Bin Hussain Al Kubaisi Member: Dr. Mazen J. Jaidah Member: Professor Ikhlaq Sidhu Lifetime Member: Engineer Saad Bin Ebrahim Al Muhannadi
Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser Chairperson of Qatar Foundation WE BELIEVE IN TRUSTING TODAY’S CHILDREN. BY EXPOSING THEM TO EXPERIENCES AND QUESTS AS A WAY OF LEARNING, WE AIM TO FUEL CHILDREN’S INDEPENDENCE, EMPATHY, CURIOSITY, AND CREATIVITY.”
Pre-University Education Pre-University Education
Setting The Tone 8 On the journey along the path of education, This approach to education has been the first steps are vital. It is at this point central to QF ever since its establishment. 9 For A Learning that a young learner starts to discover Its ecosystem of education began with a the value of knowledge, exploration, and single school: Qatar Academy Doha (QAD), discovery; the joy of being creative; the new which opened its doors in 1996 as the perspectives on the world that developing first element of QF’s disruption of Qatar’s Journey the skills of critical thinking and problem- educational landscape. Blending high- solving open up. It is where a love of quality education with a focus on Arabic learning that lasts a lifetime takes root. language and cultural heritage for the first time, the Qatar Academy model has For Qatar Foundation (QF), everything expanded to the point where it now spans starts with education, which is why it five schools across Qatar, all with distinct has created a unique model of learning identities but a collective ethos. that stretches from pre-school level to postgraduate study. And within this model, Over the decades since, they have been everything starts with Pre-University joined by a range of specialized QF schools. Education (PUE) – where the foundations Together, this portfolio of educational for lifelong, life-wide learning are laid, and institutions have an academic focus that where school students are provided with reflects the diversity of Qatar’s community, a meaningful, personalized, intellectually and the importance of catering to the stimulating education experience, different needs of different students, recognizing and celebrating the fact that cultivating the skills essential for them to every child is an individual, with their own thrive throughout their learning journey and personality, strengths, talents, interests, throughout their lives, and offering real- and way of learning. world learning experiences – from science, Pre-University Education
“OUR GOAL IS TO EQUIP HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS WITH THE SKILLS, TOOLS, AND KNOWLEDGE TO PROPOSE PURPOSE-LED SOLUTIONS TO GLOBAL ISSUES.”
research, and innovation to citizenship, With an equal emphasis on children’s service, and humanitarianism – that academic and personal development, empower them to recognize what they can Academyati provides tailored, creative, bring to their societies. and nurturing learning experiences that appreciate the uniqueness of each its 10 And just as it helps young lives to grow, students. When they enter Academyati, PUE continues to grow itself. every child receives a personal learning 11 plan designed to nurture their growth, Progressive and purposeful harness their interests, and let their creativity flow, with multi-age groups Quality education has many hallmarks. replacing traditional age- or grade- Inclusivity and accessibility are among dictated class structures. The result is a of K-12 education. As its director Maryam “We believe our philosophy, and our them. And QF’s investment in quality fluid, non-classroom school environment Alhajri explains, its goal is to reimagine the teaching and learning elements, are going education has been driven by ensuring where learners learn at their own pace, way learning happens. to change the future of education.” that it is open, relevant, and beneficial alongside children who may be older or to everyone. younger than them. In November 2019, education’s future was placed in focus at QF as PUE hosted the QF has established schools that nurture Academyati, which welcomed its first 4,378 Qatari students world’s first progressive schools summit, the skills of students with special students at the start of the 2019-20 attended by founders and leaders of considerations who require tailored academic year, provides children with are enrolled in QF international schools and institutions support, and that specialize in STEM experiences and quests – open-ended that take a new and disruptive approach education. In February 2019, this activities that challenge them to solve schools to learning. commitment to providing education that problems, all rooted in real-world relevance pinpoints and meets the needs of every – rather than a traditional subject-based “Academyati stands for ‘Innovation in The LEAPS Summit explored how teaching child was again epitomized with the launch approach. Currently enrolling pre-school- Learning’,” she said. “We believe in and learning methods can be re-energized of Academyati – a progressive school that age children, the school – showcased to trusting today’s children. By exposing to support children’s creativity, curiosity, is the first of its kind in Qatar, and whose an international audience during QF’s them to experiences and quests as a self-development, and future prospects. globally unique learning model takes the November 2019 participation in the Paris way of learning, we aim to fuel children’s It will take place biennially, with its concept of personalized education into a Peace Forum global governance summit independence, empathy, curiosity, first edition seeing the launch of Qatar new dimension. – will ultimately cover the full spectrum and creativity. Spotlight – an initiative developed by PUE in Pre-University Education
partnership with HundrED, a not-for-profit “Tariq Bin Ziad School has a unique vision, organization that identifies and shares and will increase the diversity and variety innovations in K-12 education, through of schools in Qatar,” said Maha Al Romaihi, EDI Forum Celebrates Cultural which members of Qatar’s educational the school’s director. sector will submit innovative education Heritage Education ideas. The 10 most impactful and scalable “It will be an exemplar of how to deliver submissions will be shared with a global a high-quality, bilingual, international A celebration of how Qatari cultural heritage and identity are at network of educators. education in the context of Qatari the core of the learning experience offered within the nation’s heritage, and of an educational focus that schools was held in April 2019 by the Education Development Bringing heritage to life emphasizes the importance of building a Institute (EDI), part of PUE. strong Muslim, Arabic, and Qatari student 2019 also saw Doha’s historic Tariq Bin identity through Qatari heritage programs Attended by Her Excellency Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, Ziad School being brought under the and national programs in world-class Vice Chairperson and CEO of Qatar Foundation, the Education PUE umbrella, reflecting the evolution facilities.” Forum on Heritage and Identity was organized by EDI in and expansion of QF’s commitment to collaboration with the Qatar National Committee for Education, ensuring Arabic cultural identity and values The expansion of QF’s PUE portfolio has Culture and Science, under the Ministry of Education and are intrinsic into the international-class also seen the establishment of Qatar Higher Education; UNESCO; and the Ministry of Culture and schooling it provides. Academy for Science and Technology Sports. (QAST), where the first students to The school has a long, proud tradition experience its accelerated STEM-focused It also provided an opportunity for teachers to share and of graduating leaders, and – through a curriculum and develop the theoretical showcase learning activities that support the teaching of bilingual Primary Years Programme that and practical skills required for science, cultural heritage in Qatar’s schools – reflecting EDI’s role 12 follows the International Baccalaureate research, and innovation are already in steering the professional development of educators, the curriculum, augmented by additional making their mark. improvement of curricula, and the building of educational 13 elements built around enduring importance leadership capacity in Qatar. of Qatari heritage – this tradition is set Since QAST opened at the start of the to continue as a QF school. Its activities 2018-19 academic year, its students have and educational pathways are designed to proposed solutions to regional climate bring cultural heritage to life, through an issues to Ovais Sarmad, Deputy Executive academic focus that extends beyond the Secretary of the United Nations Framework classroom and into community life. Convention in Climate Change; worked
with experts from QF member Hamad Bin Milestones and successes Khalifa University and Qatar University to develop their ideas for tackling antibiotic As PUE broadens the educational value it resistance; and developed their own brings to Qatar through the establishment workshops for Doha Learning Days, Qatar’s and addition of new schools, milestones and first experiential learning festival, organized moments to savor have been celebrated by 6,235 students of 57 by QF initiative the World Innovation those which have been part of the QF story nationalities are enrolled Summit for Education. for longer. As Dr. Gregory Moncada, the school’s Ten years of academic success and at QF’s schools and the director, says: “At QAST, students nurturing young leaders were marked at become innovators and problem-solvers Qatar Academy Al Khor (QAK) in November Academic Bridge Program in by acquiring the knowledge and skills 2018, with Her Excellency Sheikha Hind needed to resolve some of Qatar’s bint Hamad Al Thani, Vice Chairperson the 2019-20 academic year greatest challenges.” and CEO of Qatar Foundation, attending a Pre-University Education
ceremony to commemorate the landmark Phoenix. Sama Nabil Ayoub and Khadija in the school’s life, where staff members Ahmed Elmagarmid secured their place who have been there since the beginning in the contest by designing a device that were honored. enhances communication between autistic children and their parents, which ranked “Our young people are passionate about among the winners at National Scientific pursuing knowledge,” said Aisha Al- Research Week, an annual celebration Megbali, Director of QAK. “They have an of the scientific talent that exists within incredible ability to adapt and respond Qatar’s schools, organized by the Ministry to changes with a self-generated of Education and Higher Education and QF methodology, coupled with the support of member Qatar National Research Fund. their families and Qatar Academy Al Khor, their second home.” At Intel ISEF, Ayoub and Elmagarmid’s application saw them win an award from global technology education program Oracle Academy, while also being placed QF’s schools and fourth in the international science fair’s Systems Software category – where its Academic the two QAD students were competing against 1,800 students from 80 countries. Bridge Program Their achievement played a key role in Qatar’s Intel ISEF team delivering the best 14 have graduated performance in its history. 15 There were also achievements for PUE’s 4,761 students schools themselves, as Qatar Academy Msheireb (QAM), Qatar Academy Al Six years on from holding its first classes, Wakra (QAW), and QAK were all awarded Qatar Academy Sidra (QAS) graduated Primary Years Program International its first students in August 2018, with the Baccalaureate (IB) Authorization. QAW names of three students – Karim Emara, additionally received IB Authorization Thurriya Al Mulla, and Afnan Farah – being for its Middle Years Program, while QAM inked into its history as they achieved secured membership of the Council of International Baccalaureate Diploma International Schools. Programme scores that outstripped the global average. A role in raising awareness
“The journey undertaken to complete this As well as fostering academic excellence, qualification will ensure that our first three QF schools also have a wider role within alumni will make a significant difference in Qatar’s community – and, through the the world,” said Kim Green, Director of QAS. ethos of these institutions and the values and behaviors demonstrated by their Two innovative QAD students took center students and educators, a message to stage at the 2019 edition of the Intel send to that community. International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) – the world’s largest pre-university Renad Academy has one such message. science competition – in the US city of A groundbreaking specialized school Pre-University Education
QUALITY EDUCATION FUTURE-PROOFS OUR QF Students Show Their Math CHILDREN BY EMPOWERING THEM TO BE ENGAGED, ACTIVE, PRODUCTIVE MEMBERS OF Skills On The Global Stage SOCIETY, READY FOR WHATEVER LIFE HOLDS.” In late 2019, 12 students from QF schools whose ability to tackle math has stood out travelled to South Korea to represent Qatar in the World Mathematics Team Championship (WMTC).
For the first time, students from various QF schools were established by QF to help children with a permanent condition, treatment and eligible to apply, with young learners from Qatar Academy Doha Autism, Renad has also become central to therapy leads to improvements.” (QAD), Qatar Academy Al Khor, and Qatar Academy for Science advancing understanding and awareness of and Technology joining the trip. The competition in Incheon saw Autism throughout Qatar since it opened Meanwhile, through its summer and 700 students from 16 countries participate. in 2017. winter Mukhayamna camps, PUE provided children across Qatar with access to Two of the Qatar students received special honors, with QAD For the last three years, a key element of expert-led STEM and recreational grade 12 student Oroni Hasan receiving a bronze medal, this community role has been the annual programs. The month-long camps, held placing her in the top 30 percent of contestants; and Jassim Renad-organized World Autism Awareness under the banner ‘Where Learning Is Fun’, Al Thani, a QAD grade 9 student, receiving a merit award that Day event, where families are invited to nurture a love of science and math among placed him in the top 40 percent. enjoy a series of activities that, for all the children, and collectively attract between 16 fun they offer, also have a serious side: 350-400 attendees. helping to break down the stigmas that 17 often surround Autism and influence public The voice of youth perceptions of the condition. One of the defining characteristics of World Autism Awareness Day was students within QF schools is their In January 2019, 1,800 students from 16 countries converged to develop their proposed by Her Highness Sheikha determination to lend their voice to global 64 local and international schools came capabilities as drivers of change, build new Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar conversations, tackle the world’s most together in Doha for the eighth annual networks of knowledge, and elevate the role Foundation, in 2007, and adopted without a pressing issues head-on, and generate THIMUN Qatar conference, under the theme of youth in steering the future. vote by the UN General Assembly. The first their own solutions. of ‘Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions’. World Autism Awareness Day was marked Participants had the opportunity to play the “Our goal is to equip high school students the following year. This mindset has helped to make Qatar a role of diplomats and ambassadors through with the skills, tools, and knowledge to gathering-point for aspiring young leaders sessions that replicated UN events. propose purpose-led solutions to global Speaking about the 2019 World Autism from around the world, including through issues,” said Fatima El Mahdi, Head of Awareness Day event – held at Al Shaqab the work of THIMUN Qatar, formed in THIMUN Qatar. “These young people are in Education City, and part of a month-long 2011 as a joint project between Qatar QF schools have our future, and, as the largest Model United series of Autism-friendly public activities Academy and the THIMUN Foundation. Nations conference in the Middle East – organized by Renad – Sherri Miller, Now operating under PUE, THIMUN Qatar 1,300+ staff and which continues to grow every year – we are Director of Renad Academy, said: “We supports regional efforts to develop Model proud to be at the forefront of education in aim to promote and enhance awareness, United Nations programs and events for faculty diplomacy and international relations.” acceptance, and understanding of Autism young people, cultivating dialogue, debate, among the wider community. cross-cultural understanding, and active THIMUN Qatar also hosted the region’s The global awareness of students from QF engagement in addressing the problems largest student-driven leadership summit schools was also illustrated by their role in “Through this celebration, we want to faced by societies worldwide. – the Qatar Leadership Conference 2019 a sit-down climate change protest at Qatar demonstrate that while Autism may be – where 900 high school students from Foundation in September 2019, as they lent Pre-University Education
iSTEMed Camp empowers students to solve real-world issues Students, educators, and school leaders from Qatar and beyond participated in the annual iSTEMed Camp at QF – organized by PUE’s Education Development Institute – in March 2019.
iSTEMed explores how educators can empower students to find solutions to real-world problems through science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). The three-day event, sponsored by ExxonMobil Qatar, featured more than 60 presenters and 50-plus sessions for educators from Early Years to Grade 12, with sessions also enabling the community to participate in STEM activities.
18 their voice to calls for world leaders to take annual PUE Forum. “To us, quality urgent action to combat the greatest threat education reaches far beyond merely 19 our planet faces. focusing on literacy, delivering content, providing excellent facilities, and producing Among them was Joud Al Issa, 11, a QAD impressive exam results,” she said. student, who said: “I am protesting because I believe the damage we are doing to the “Quality education future-proofs our planet will affect future generations, and I children by empowering them to be hope our grandchildren can see the world engaged, active, productive members of as it used to be. Humans are the cause of society, ready for whatever life holds. It this damage, so they should always be the embraces and celebrates their differences, solution – it is the responsibility of all of us.” and inspires them by challenging them. It places as much emphasis on their personal Education that empowers and cognitive development as their academic skills. As August 2019 ushered in a new academic year – one in which more than 6,000 “It recognizes that within every child lies students are embarking on and continuing potential – and devotes itself to ensuring their learning journey within QF schools that their potential is realized.” – an encapsulation of what pre-university education at QF represents was provided.
It came in the words of Buthaina Ali Al-Nuaimi, President of Pre-University Education, QF, speaking at the fourth Pre-University Education
1996 2001 2005 2008 2011 2012 2014 2016 2018 2019 Qatar Qatar Academic Qatar Qatar Qatar Qatar Qatar Academy Academy Bridge Leadership Academy Academy Academy Academy Renad for Science Tariq Bin Ziad Doha Program Academy Al Khor Al Wakra Sidra Msheireb Academy and Technology School
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Awsaj Academyati Academy How QF’s Pre-University Education Has Evolved Higher Education
AT CONVOCATION, THE TALENTED, DEDICATED, AND AMBITIOUS YOUNG PEOPLE THAT QATAR FOUNDATION IS PROUD TO HAVE CALLED OUR STUDENTS STEP OUT OF ONE PHASE OF THEIR LIVES AND INTO THE NEXT.”
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Higher Education Higher Education
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24 Experiences, Multinational, multicultural, want to carve for themselves within it – 25 multidisciplinary, and multidimensional, through top-ranked programs whose focus Qatar Foundation’s (QF) Education City is an stretches from engineering, medicine, art, Endless environment of learning like no other. and media to global affairs, energy and the environment, Islamic studies, cultural It is where branch campuses of some of the heritage, and business. world’s leading universities stand alongside Opportunities QF’s homegrown institute of higher Every degree a student at one of eight QF’s learning, Hamad Bin Khalifa University international partner universities earns is (HBKU), and more than 3,000 students from the equivalent of that gained by a student almost half the countries in the world learn at its home campus. And at HBKU - which within the lecture theatre, the workshop, continues to expand its academic offer and and the laboratory – but also learn from, its international reputation as a research- and about, each other beyond the classic focused, innovation-based, entrepreneurial academic setting, sharing their stories university – six specialized colleges provide and experiences, and broadening their 35 programs that hone the skills required understanding and worldview. to equip future leaders with real-world problem-solving skills that shape solutions QF built its pioneering model of higher capable of creating global benefit. education to maximize the academic expertise and learning experience it could A central element of what sets Education offer students in fields that are vital to City apart is the proximity of these the future of Qatar, while being relevant universities to each other. QF students have to the world and to the path young people an opportunity that does not exist anywhere Higher Education
THE UNIVERSITY’S MANDATE IS TO GRADUATE A HIGHLY-CAPABLE STREAM OF INDIVIDUALS, BUT, EVEN MORE IMPORTANTLY, IT SEEKS TO BEGIN ADDRESSING TODAY THE NEEDS OF TOMORROW.”
else in the world – to cross-register for In 2019, QF’s annual Convocation ceremony courses at different universities just – which, since 2008, has been a platform yards apart, allowing them to customize to collectively celebrate the achievements their learning experience, and widen the of graduating students from HBKU and scope of their knowledge and their goals. QF’s partner universities – honored 786 Academic and research collaborations are graduates, the highest number in the easy to form and capable of generating history of QF. The Class of 2019 join a greater impact because of the closeness growing global network of QF alumni that of institutions and their students, faculty, now has more than 5,800 members. 26 and researchers. And the possibilities for the exchange of knowledge and cultural At Convocation 2019, which was attended by 27 understanding that Education City offers its His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al student body, and those that teach them, Thani, the Amir of Qatar, and Her Highness are endless. Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, they gathered to look Dynamic, diverse, dedicated to nurturing back on their time and accomplishments at Foundation is proud to have called our – a student body six per cent larger than in excellence, and continually disrupting the Education City, while also turning their gaze students step out of one phase of their 2018/19, with 60 per cent of students being concept of what a university campus can toward the future. The significance of the lives and into the next. A future that holds female – enrolled in the nine universities at be, the higher education landscape at QF is occasion, and how it represents more than challenges and possibilities awaits them, QF, and ready not just for an education, but a true world of learning – where the world a graduation ceremony, was illustrated by but wherever their path leads, they will for an experience that will equip them to comes to learn. Her Excellency Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al travel it empowered with the knowledge address the needs of Qatar and make their Thani, Vice Chairperson and CEO of Qatar that they are as well-equipped to create, mark on the global stage. Shared celebration Foundation. innovate, contribute, and thrive as any set of graduates in the world.” Pushing boundaries Every year, the meaning and purpose of “For our Class of 2019 graduates, QF’s investment in education is embodied Convocation is many things: a personal Just as May signifies culmination, For HBKU, the 2019 graduation period was by a group of young people who – having and shared celebration, a source of pride, September represents commencement – one of firsts, and of starts. strived to learn, grow, discover, innovate, and a time to reflect on their achievements the commencement of learning, and life, and succeed for several years – reach the and experiences at Education City,” said at Education City for a new wave of Its 173 graduates from 43 countries crowning moment of their time at Education Her Excellency Sheikha Hind. “It is a students who will ultimately take to the included the first cohort of graduates City: the moment where they graduate, culmination – but it is also a beginning. Convocation stage. from seven programs within three of its and take the step from one stage of their colleges: postgraduate programs in digital journey to the next. “At Convocation, the talented, dedicated, And the 2019-20 academic year began with humanities and societies; women, society, and ambitious young people that Qatar almost 3,300 new and returning students and development, and genomics and Higher Education
precision medicine; doctoral programs “Our edX offerings are a manifestation in computer science and engineering, of the university’s lifelong commitment sustainable energy, and biological and to innovate academic approaches that International acclaim for HBKU biomedical sciences; and the university’s transcend geographical boundaries.” first undergraduate program, its Bachelor student’s diabetes research of Science in Computer Engineering. Through a collaboration with IBM, announced at the Qatar IT Conference and Research into diabetes led to a student at Hamad Bin Khalifa Its fifth graduation ceremony also saw Exhibition 2019, HBKU students will now University’s College of Health and Life Sciences being recognized Dr. Ahmad M. Hasnah, President of feel the benefit of the IBM Skills Academy, by the International Society for Stem Cell Research (ISSCR). HBKU, announce the launch of eight giving them the opportunity to gain new new, multidisciplinary graduate degrees and vital digital skills in areas such as Bushra Memon, who is pursuing a Ph.D in Biological and across all six of the university’s colleges – cloud computing, data science, analytics, Biomedical Sciences, discovered an alternative source of insulin- including the Master of Public Policy within blockchain, Artificial Intelligence, and secreting cells that could be used to treat diabetes. Her work led to HBKU’s newly-inaugurated College of cybersecurity – improving their career her receiving the ISSCR Abstract Merit Award during the society’s Public Policy. prospects while expanding their capacity 2019 conference in Los Angeles. for entrepreneurship. “The new degrees are an organic extension of HBKU’s vision to offer an integrated and As part of HBKU’s commitment to cutting-edge learning experience,” said providing high-quality education in areas Nasser Al-Binali, Head of Enrollment of innovation, and its dedication to taking at HBKU. evidence-based approaches to problem- solving, the university organized its first 28 “The university’s mandate is to graduate a Qatar International Cybersecurity Contest highly-capable stream of individuals, but, in October 2019, HBKU brought together 29 even more importantly, it seeks to begin 130 academics, experts, and students from cycle of its Idea Development Grant in host two exhibitions each year, with its first addressing today the needs of tomorrow.” over 30 countries to analyze current cyber August 2018, with 14 teams moving to the exploring how a century of film history has threats and vulnerabilities, and identify final stage in order to develop their proof shaped, and been shaped, by notions of HBKU’s goal of pushing boundaries ways of tackling them. Competitions run of concept further. The second cycle, Arab identity. was reflected through a new agreement by HBKU colleges challenged participants initiated in March 2019, saw 10 teams with edX, the non-profit online learning to look at cyberspace through the lens being awarded. The Media Majlis was officially dedicated platform founded by Harvard University of ethics and morality; detect fake news; in a May 2019 ceremony by Her Highness and Massachusetts Institute of Technology. take part in ethical hacking activities; Empowering and engaging Sheikha Moza bint Nasser. It features It makes the QF member the first Middle present arguments in an international court digital capacity-creating exhibitions in East university to provide interdisciplinary simulation; and focus on the importance of Within QF partner university Northwestern which visitors can participate through courses – available to millions of students keeping genetic data safe. University in Qatar (NU-Q) stands a interactive commentary and engagement, around the world - through edX, with the museum that is both unique and interactive: with digital and physical content allowing initial two being ‘Solar Energy in Hot Desert Meanwhile, reflecting the fundamental role the Media Majlis, the first of its kind in the the exploration of stories from multiple Climates’ and a professional certificate of HBKU, the university launched the HBKU region, and the first university museum perspectives. program in ‘Sustainability and Major Innovation Center, a pioneering initiative in Qatar. Sports Events’, designed in partnership designed to foster entrepreneurship and “The Media Majlis aims to foster public with sports and events expertise hub the creativity, and focused on a number of key Designed to be an active and empowering understanding of journalism and Josoor Institute. challenges. It aims to serve as a platform space where people can engage with communication, and their role in shaping for connecting and sharing ideas, people, content and programs focusing on public opinion and shaping the image of the “As an ever-evolving sector, education has, resources, and expertise – providing a communication, journalism, and media in Middle East to the rest of the world,” said in recent years, taken on new forms that go single dedicated space for collaboration. the Arab world, as well as contributing to Everette E. Dennis, Dean of NU-Q. beyond the limitations of the conventional global conversations about the constantly classroom setting,” said Dr. Hasnah. The center officially initiated the first changing face of media, the museum will NU-Q is also now home to the Media Higher Education
I WOULD NEVER HAVE BEEN ABLE TO MAKE IT THIS FAR IF IT WASN’T FOR QF AND QATAR MAKING IT POSSIBLE TO GET THIS KIND OF EDUCATION HERE, SO THAT WE COULD ALL ACHIEVE OUR POTENTIAL.”
Innovation Lab (MIL), where innovative Service (SFS) at Georgetown University. ideas are being blended with theory and And, as the school’s dean, Joel Hellman, technology, with the aim of developing said: “One hundred years ago, SFS took original concepts and solutions that on the mission to foster peace and address challenges in the media world. stability through education rooted in a global perspective. Launched in fall 2018, the MIL resulted from an NU-Q exploration of how students, “I’m proud to see the continuation of that faculty, and staff could use the university’s Georgetown tradition in this celebration of 30 new building as a platform for innovation. GU-Q’s contributions to multidisciplinary Each year, it will address a specific scholarship in Qatar, and around the 31 media-focused theme through a series of world.” workshops, lectures, and activities, the first theme being ‘Virtual and Augmented Reality GU-Q’s dedication to discovery and dialogue in Storytelling in Media’. was again evidenced by the formation of the Cyber Security Research Group, a joint Global perspective initiative with the Community College of Qatar. The group will bring together Qatar- The contribution of QF partner university based cybersecurity experts to develop Georgetown University in Qatar (GU-Q) to research projects focusing on addressing raising Qatar’s global profile as a hub of cyber issues that are of the greatest new knowledge and original thought was relevance to Qatar and the region, while celebrated in April 2019 at an event that also hosting international cybersecurity commemorated the publication of over leaders to discuss cyber concerns and how 100 books by its faculty and staff since its they can be tackled across different sectors. establishment in 2005. Leading change Attended by Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, ‘GU-Q 100: A Celebration of A milestone was reached at Texas A&M Knowledge’ lauded the wealth of research University at Qatar (TAMUQ) in 2019, as that the university has produced in the field the QF partner university celebrated of humanities and social sciences, with the the achievements of its latest batch event coinciding with the 100th anniversary of graduates. of the Edmund A. Walsh School of Foreign Higher Education
Leaping hurdles – and breaking down barriers
In more ways than one, Northwestern University in Qatar student Mariam Farid has no problem clearing obstacles.
She is the first female Qatari athlete to wear the hijab during competition, which has led to her taking a role in breaking down stereotypes surrounding Arab women. And in 2019, having acted as an ambassador for the IAAF World Athletics Championship in Doha, she rose to the occasion in the competition itself, setting a new personal best in the 400m hurdles.
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33 The university graduated its 1,000th Specialist Program administered by the US engineer at its annual commencement Department of State, which pairs top US ceremony, where Class of 2019 electrical academics and professionals with overseas engineering graduate Saeed Binnoora institutions to develop capacity-building told her classmates and fellow graduates: projects. “Tonight, we realize the greatest reason why we are here: that we are on a And innovation was at the core of humanitarian mission. a technology developed by TAMUQ researchers that could help Qatar process “It is not about the grid, or the bridge, or natural gas while reducing its carbon the catalyst, or the pump, but much footprint. Developed in Qatar by a TAMUQ grander. We are over 1,000 graduates research team in collaboration with from Texas A&M University at Qatar colleagues at Texas A&M University’s main leading positive change.” campus in the US, the CARGEN reactor is designed to turn methane and CO2 into TAMUQ’s capacity to drive such change syngas, which can be used to make vital has been supported by its Center for chemicals for Qatar’s gas-processing Teaching and Learning being awarded a industries; and carbon nanotubes, which Fulbright grant to develop an innovative can help to manufacture computers and new approach to the way students learn other materials – all through a process that, and tutors teach – the first of its kind because it can be driven by electric or solar for an educational institution in Qatar. power, removes the need to burn fuel and The award comes under the Fulbright leads to lower emissions. Higher Education
Research with impact – designed to unlock ideas and empower leaders in the field of conservation and the Fresh perspectives on breast cancer environment - for the West Asia region. Mental health study sees GU-Q therapy – which could lead to better Dina Altarawneh’s idea for reducing single- treatment for the disease, with fewer side- use plastics in Qatar’s grocery stories is to student secure fellowship effects - were provided in November 2018 establish a zero-waste, bulk grocery store by a research team at Carnegie Mellon that would be the first of its kind in the A Georgetown University in Qatar student became one of only two University in Qatar (CMU-Q). Middle East, leading to the Class of 2019 non-practicing journalists to be awarded the Rosalynn Carter biological sciences graduate being selected Fellowship for Mental Health Journalism, which promotes accurate A project by Ihab Younis, an Assistant for the UN competition. reporting and greater understanding of mental health issues. Professor of Biological Sciences at the QF partner university, and Ettaib El Marabti, Commemorating a milestone Asma Al-Jehani – who is also the first Qatari student to be a 2017 graduate of its Biological Sciences selected – was introduced to the Carter Center fellowship program, discovered that a cellular Virginia Commonwealth University School through QF initiative the World Innovation Summit for Health, as mechanism called “splicing” that does not of the Arts in Qatar (VCUarts Qatar) has a she worked on a project studying the mental health of migrant work properly in cancer cells could actually relationship with QF that stretches back workers in Qatar. be used to kill those cells while leaving to 1998. And its growth, and the impact it healthy ones intact. has made on the art and design landscape in Qatar, was chronicled in a new book as “Carnegie Mellon as an institution is built the QF partner university celebrated two on the belief that research should have decades years at Education City. an impact on people’s lives,” said Michael 34 Trick, Dean of CMU-Q. “Ihab and Ettaib’s Cultivating the Arts commemorated the research could have important implications university’s 20th year in Qatar, and was design conference, Tasmeem Doha, which honed at QF partner university Weill Cornell 35 in the treatment of breast cancer, as well as dedicated to the alumni who have passed hosted three days of workshops, talks, and Medicine-Qatar (WCM-Q) was illuminated other types of cancers.” through its corridors and programs, and exhibitions by artists and designers from in April 2019, when its final-year medical the faculty and staff who have been at the region and around the world. students matched with programs at some Two CMU-Q researchers created a digital center of its longevity. It detailed how the of the world’s top university hospitals. 3-D mathematical model to predict how university evolved from its early days at Held under the theme of ‘Hekayat, meaning human tissue responds to the physical Shaqab College of Design Arts, to VCU ‘stories’, the experience of creating The elite US institutions where WCM-Q stresses of pregnancy, which could open Qatar College of Design Arts, and then the conference was, in Omar’s words, graduates are now undergoing their the way for a new tool to be developed that becoming a branch campus of Virginia “amazing”. “We were the first graduates residencies include Johns Hopkins allows miscarriage or pre-term delivery Commonwealth University in 2002, when its to take on such a thing,” she said. “It was Medicine, Case Western/University Hospital risks to be measured and forecast. “If first degrees were awarded. an experience and a challenge at the same Cleveland, Duke University Medical Center, we can use mathematics to provide a time. We are incredibly proud of how far and NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell tool for doctors to better predict, and Speaking at the book launch, Dr. Donald we’ve come.” Medical Center, with others enhancing perhaps mitigate, pre-term births, that Baker, Executive Dean of VCUarts Qatar, Qatar’s healthcare expertise at Hamad would be very gratifying,” said Dr. Hasan said: “VCUarts Qatar has been a steady Matching with the best Medical Corporation. And WCM-Q Class of Demirkopan, Associate Professor of source of innovation and alternative ways of 2019 member Said Alnajjer said: “I would Mathematics at CMU-Q, who conducted the looking at the world and at ourselves.” For the doctors of the future, one of the never have been able to make it this far if it project with post-doctoral researcher pivotal moments in their career is Match wasn’t for QF and Qatar making it possible Heiko Topel. A new piece of VCUarts Qatar history Day – when medical students throughout to get this kind of education here, so that we was made in March 2019 when four of the world aim to win coveted places on the could all achieve our potential.” And a CMU-Q alumna’s passion for its alumni – Hadeer Omar, Noha Fouad, world’s top medical residency programs. protecting the environment led to her being Wajiha Pervez, and Yasmeen Suleiman - In the sphere of biomedical research, named as one of the five finalists for the UN became the first former students to co- The caliber of the new generation of WCM-Q discovered new metabolites – the Young Champions of the Earth competition chair the university’s annual international healthcare professionals whose skills are product of the chemical reaction that Higher Education
keeps people alive – that could explain invited to Qatar by QF to develop cultural why some obese people develop type 2 heritage programs that help to realize diabetes while others do not; contributed the tangible and intangible value of the to an international research project into country’s investment in arts and culture. neurodegenerative disease by analyzing Qatar Museums has been a pivotal partner how desert toxins could play a part in the for UCL in this task, and we’re incredibly onset of conditions such as Alzheimer’s and proud to be working with them yet again on Parkinson’s disease; and seeing its Qatar- such an important national initiative.” based study which uncovered links between genetic variations and a range of conditions Just as QF’s partner universities bring - including heart disease and cancer – benefit to Qatar, being in Qatar benefits being built on by an international team of them – as HEC Paris can testify. In scientists, leading to a detailed genetic map November 2019, the French business of human proteins. school’s International Executive MBA (EMBA) program was ranked No.1 in the Meanwhile, through a research agreement world by the Financial Times (FT) – and between WCM-Q and US biotechnology the achievements of HEC Paris in Qatar’s company Moderna, a new cholesterol- students helped to make this possible. controlling drug will be developed, with the potential to radically improve treatment for When the program was placed sixth in the type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. FT’s 2018 rankings, only its Paris-based track was taken into consideration. In 2019, 36 Focus on heritage it was assessed as one program, taking the results of its Doha cohort into account as it 37 As Qatar seeks to both preserve and came top of the FT table. promote its cultural heritage – and position itself, regionally and globally, as a premier “The achievements of our Doha cohort are cultural hub – a QF partner university is a direct result of an excellent partnership playing a vital role. between QF and our main campus in Paris,” said HEC Paris in Qatar marketing director UCL Qatar’s close and longstanding links Michael Lefante. “From supporting our with Qatar Museums, the nation’s leading growth, helping us to expand our academic cultural authority, were intensified in programs, to encouraging us to develop October 2018 through a partnership that locally-inspired business modules, QF will create a new legal framework for has helped our campus in Qatar exceed Qatar’s cultural heritage. Drawing on its expectations.” expertise from organizations such as UNESCO, it will modernize heritage laws dating back to 1980 and bring them into line with internationally-recognized standards, so the socio-economic benefit of Qatar’s history and treasures can be maximized.
Areas of focus for the partnership include how privately-owned museums can be established in Qatar, and Sam Evans, Director of UCL Qatar, said: “UCL was Higher Education
QF Convocation
518 410 337 STUDENTS STUDENTS STUDENTS MALE FEMALE MALE FEMALE MALE FEMALE 260 258 162 248 104 233 2019 250 169 143 In Numbers QATARI STUDENTS QATARI STUDENTS QATARI STUDENTS 39 48 54 STUDENT NATIONALITIES STUDENT NATIONALITIES STUDENT NATIONALITIES
5 5 4 PROGRAMS PROGRAMS PROGRAMS 38
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818 323 313 381 47 64 STUDENTS STUDENTS STUDENTS STUDENTS STUDENTS STUDENTS MALE FEMALE MALE FEMALE MALE FEMALE MALE FEMALE MALE FEMALE MALE FEMALE 448 370 17 306 131 182 98 283 14 33 21 43
273 198 119 174 36 8 QATARI STUDENTS QATARI STUDENTS QATARI STUDENTS QATARI STUDENTS QATARI STUDENTS QATARI STUDENTS
67 35 34 51 24 29 STUDENT NATIONALITIES STUDENT NATIONALITIES STUDENT NATIONALITIES STUDENT NATIONALITIES STUDENT NATIONALITIES STUDENT NATIONALITIES
36 7 2 3 2 2 PROGRAMS PROGRAMS PROGRAMS PROGRAMS PROGRAMS PROGRAMS WE WANT PEOPLE TO RECOGNIZE QSTP AS A HUB OF INNOVATION, AND REALIZE THAT QATAR IS THE PREMIER DESTINATION FOR THEM TO MAKE THE IMPACT THEY AIM TO ACHIEVE.”
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Research, Development and Innovation Research, Development and Innovation
Shaping the 42 “Research, development, and innovation The RDI environment that Qatar Foundation 43 Future, Building in Qatar is a journey, and it is a journey (QF) has built over the past decade-and- as important as any that Qatar will ever a-half ensures Qatar now has a platform undertake.” to take its efforts in this field to a new level, and into a new phase. From research a Legacy Those were the words of Dr. Richard and technology development centers to O’Kennedy, Vice President of Research, a wide spectrum of funding programs, Development and Innovation at Qatar the infrastructure that opens the way for Foundation, at ‘Catalyzing The Future’, discoveries and breakthroughs to happen is an October 2019 celebration of the 10th now established. Technology entrepreneurs, anniversary of Qatar Science & Technology innovators, and businesses are being Park (QSTP) that also emphasized how supported to develop innovative solutions making a nationwide commitment to that address challenges faced by Qatar and advancing research and innovation can the world. Some of the leading international create an enduring legacy for Qatar. names in industry and technology are developing their products and services at They also reflected how, for Qatar QSTP, alongside the startups launched by to achieve its economic and social aspiring tech entrepreneurs from across development goals, a continuing focus on the Arab world. research, development, and innovation (RDI) is essential – because of its capacity Science, technology, and innovation are to underpin the nation’s sustainability, self- intrinsic to QF’s schools and universities, sufficiency, and resilience, and to reinforce with students who establish tech ventures its global competitiveness. while at university having the opportunity Research, Development and Innovation
QATAR CAN LEAD BY EXAMPLE AND SHOW THE Food security in focus REST OF THE WORLD HOW TO SEAMLESSLY As self-sufficiency in terms of food supplies becomes an EMBRACE AN AI + X FUTURE, WHERE ALMOST increasing area of focus for Qatar, 2019 saw Qatar National EVERY ACTIVITY OF IMPORTANCE WILL BE Research Fund and the Ministry of Municipality and TOUCHED BY AI.” Environment launch the first cycle of a joint food security funding call.
It will invest in research projects that primarily focus on local food production, and aims to encourage the development of food security solutions that are suited to Qatar’s climate and to advance them at QSTP soon after they products and services designed to meet support the creation of a sustainable national food system for graduate. The juxtaposition of academia both local and global challenges. Over its the country. and RDI within QF provides students with 10-year lifespan, 108 companies from 17 practical real-world science and research countries have operated at QSTP, with its experience while pursuing their degrees, current portfolio of companies ranging enabling them to view RDI as a viable from Qatari organizations such as the Gulf career choice and expanding Qatar’s human Organization for Research & Development, capacity in this pivotal area. Qatar Mobiity Innovation Centre, and Meeza, to multinationals like Cisco, Microsoft, and 44 By creating a value chain that spans Conoco Phillips. the full spectrum of RDI – from ideas to 45 commercialized products – and a vibrant Within its Incubation Center – a 12-month research culture that brings together local, program that helps Qatar-based startups At ‘Catalyzing The Future’, His Excellency regional, and international researchers develop their products, expand their Dr. Khalid bin Mohammed Al Attiyah, and innovators, QF has laid the foundations customer base, and explore funding In 2019, QNRF-funded Minister of State for Defense Affairs, who for Qatar to future-proof itself, to open up opportunities – 20 nascent companies chairs the Qatar Research, Development new economic avenues and opportunities and 66 entrepreneurs have so far been research featured and Innovation Council – a national body for job creation, and to compete in the next supported in navigating the early stages charged with developing a nationwide great global race: the race for minds, and of the path to tech success. Through its in 1,103 scientific strategy for RDI – emphasized how Qatar’s for talent. acceleration programs, innovators are goal is to be ranked among the world’s provided with training, mentorship, and publications most advanced innovation economies. Dedicated to innovation real-world insight into developing and launching tech ventures, while more Collectively, this places QSTP at the core Speaking about the importance of Since its establishment in 2009, QSTP has than 1,000 people have benefited from its of Qatar’s RDI ecosystem. ‘Catalyzing The the National Strategy for Research, become an international hub for applied innovation mindset learning pathways. Future’ provided an opportunity both to Development and Innovation 2030, he research and technology innovation, reflect on the impact it has already made, said: “With this strategy, we are honored incubation, and entrepreneurship, QSTP – which will offer USD 50 million to and the role it will now play in accelerating to provide our country with a new national supporting the commercialization of support startups over the next five years Qatar’s business RDI sector and attracting legacy towards 2030; a legacy that befits technologies that are ready to make an - also provides funding opportunities for more tech companies and talent to the its ambition, protects its national impact in the marketplace. small-to-medium enterprises and startups nation. “We want people to recognize QSTP interests, and reinforces its position that are developing products and services as a hub of innovation, and realize that and global leadership. As a Free Zone, a business park, and an relevant to Qatar’s needs, and for tech Qatar is the premier destination for them to innovation community, QSTP is home to founders and entrepreneurs taking the first make the impact they aim to achieve,” Dr. “A new legacy for an ambitious homeland, entities dedicated to develop new high-tech steps on their journey. O’Kennedy told the event. under the banner of our Amir, that is Research, Development and Innovation
focused on research, development, “At the Arab Innovation Academy, students and innovation.” develop the skills and confidence needed to develop startups from scratch, and Putting entrepreneurship learn to create unique value in the world of to the test entrepreneurship and innovation,” said Alar Kolk, President of EIA. QSTP’s growing reputation as a regional tech innovation hub was illustrated in “This unique, world-changing program January 2019 when it staged the second is only possible through the vision and edition of the Arab Innovation Academy leadership of Qatar Foundation and QSTP. (AIA) – the largest entrepreneurship Our collaboration promises to empower program in the region, where budding tech young people to further the development entrepreneurs see their skills tested to the of essential skills needed to transform the limit as they are challenged to create a new long-term prospects of the region.” startup from scratch in just 10 days. Meanwhile, 14 of the most promising tech startups from across the MENA region participated in the third edition of the MENA Over 17,000 genomes Dojo program in Kuwait, through QSTP’s partnership with global venture capital firm have been sequenced 500 Startups.
46 by Qatar Genome The MENA Dojo is a regional spin-off of the 500 Startups Series A Accelerator 47 Programme Programme, and provides startups that have already secured investment and are A collaboration with the European now looking to scale up their operation Innovation Academy (EIA), the AIA is an with intensive one-to-one training and accelerated form of experiential learning mentorship. Those participating in its latest that places participants into a ‘real-life’ edition included two Qatari startups that marketplace scenario as they develop and have previously benefited from QSTP’s launch their ventures. From more than 900 programs: ADGS, a suite of products that applicants, 160 were selected for its second use Artificial Intelligence (AI), behavioral edition, with more than 30 nationalities biometrics, and emergent behavior, and being represented by the participants, MaktApp, an AI-driven platform that speakers, and mentors. streamlines online payments.
First place in AIA 2019 went to the “Innovation is essential to the development Salamat-e team, who created a mobile of any economy, and QSTP is honored to app that acts as a ‘health passport, collaborate with 500 Startups to provide with second-placed team Fly Stories promising, innovative entrepreneurs developing a platform that offers children with the support that will enable them an interactive reading experience. Ideas to become important contributors to the produced during the 10-day innovation economic growth and diversification of the ‘boot camp’ focused on topics ranging from MENA region,” said Yosouf Abdulrahman reusing industrial waste to simplifying the Al-Salehi, Executive Director of QSTP. search for blood donors. Research, Development and Innovation
WE CAN SAY THAT SIDRA MEDICINE IS PERHAPS ONE OF THE MOST AMBITIOUS AND FAR-REACHING PROJECTS IN QATAR OVER THE PAST TWO DECADES.”
Leading by example between the nation’s government and a research institute. For QF member Hamad Bin Khalifa University’s (HBKU) research institutes, Since being established in 2010, QCRI 2018/19 also saw new ground broken in the has been a pioneer in the use of AI within fields of Artificial Intelligence (AI), health, computing research, helping to elevate energy, and the environment. Qatar’s profile as a hub of technology innovation. The national AI strategy which has resulted from its blueprint is built on six 48 pillars: Talent, Data Access, Employment, 80 patents have been Wealth Creation, Embracing an AI + X Future, 49 granted through and Thought Leadership in AI Ethics. Dr. Ahmed K. Elmagarmid, Executive research and Director of QCRI, said this strategy can help to place Qatar among the world’s AI innovation activities leaders, saying: “Qatar can lead by example promote the use of AI as a means Its outcomes revealed that the prevalence and show the rest of the world how to of alleviating poverty and improving of ASD in Qatar was one in 87 children, driven by QF seamlessly embrace an AI + X future, where living standards. enabling the study to estimate that about almost every activity of importance will be 4,800 people in Qatar have the condition. AI is a branch of technology that is set touched by AI.” Autism discoveries The findings have enabled the creation to have an influence and an impact on of Qatar’s first Autism registry, using the every aspect of our lives, workplaces, and In September 2018, QCRI launched the In the sphere of biomedical science, data of 1,300 people with ASD, which will societies in the years to come. One of the Qatar Center for Artificial Intelligence, the findings of a six-year study on the be made available to researchers whose key questions facing every nation is how established to develop and promote the prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorder focus includes neurological disorders; they prepare themselves to face, adapt to, use of cutting-edge AI solutions for the (ASD) – the first of its kind to be conducted while the data is also designed to support and maximize the benefits of, an AI future. good of society. Its key areas of focus are in Qatar and the Gulf region – were released policymakers with healthcare planning in to make the study of AI an integral part by HBKU’s Qatar Biomedical Research the context of Autism. Qatar is now well-positioned to do this of educational curricula; attract leading Institute (QBRI in June 2019. Conducted thanks to a blueprint produced by Qatar AI talent to Qatar; establish a research by the institute’s Neurological Disorders QBRI and the Harvard Stem Cell Institute Computing Research Institute (QCRI), and policy center in Qatar to coordinate Research Center, its aim was to pinpoint also signed a collaborative five-year which, in October 2019, was accepted as AI programs and initiatives; incentivize how common ASD is among families in research and training agreement, including the country’s national AI strategy – the first local businesses and government entities Qatar, and establish an Autism database technical training and research in stem to be developed through a collaboration to embrace homegrown AI solutions; and and disease registry. cell biology with the goal of working Research, Development and Innovation
toward developing viable treatments for Active contribution diabetes. Meanwhile, QBRI launched its Interdisciplinary Research Programs, Personalized, precision medicine – the designed to be a catalyst for cross- provision of treatment tailored to the needs Clearing the way for tech disciplinary research across the institute’s and characteristics of individuals – is entrepreneurs three research centers, which focus on a primary area of focus for Qatar’s RDI diabetes, cancer, and neurological disorders. efforts, reflecting the fact that the country’s A new funding initiative launched by Qatar Foundation biggest health issues need customized Research, Development and Innovation in 2019 is set to support HBKU’s Qatar Environment and Energy medical solutions. technology ventures in overcoming potential barriers to Research Institute (QEERI) brought together progress. researchers, engineers, technology Developing such solutions demands data, producers, project developers, and local and this is what Qatar Biobank – part of Aimed at Qatar-based SMEs or startups that are developing authorities in the solar energy field to QF RDI – has provided through its unique new tech products and services, the Innovation Coupon is a launch the QEERI Solar Consortium. medical research initiative that collects fund that helps them meeting the costs of solving a specific health information and biological samples issue or problem. Its first beneficiary was ADGS, with the from members of Qatar’s population, Innovation Coupon supporting the company in developing Qatar Biobank has supporting researchers to enhance their STROKK: a cybersecurity product that adds an organic layer of understanding of the drivers of disease. security to systems and renders stolen passwords useless to 96 active research hackers by learning the typing characteristics of the genuine In March 2019, it screened its 20,000th user. collaborations and 18 participant, a milestone that Dr. Asmaa Al Thani, Board Vice Chairperson of Qatar “The development of the Innovation Coupon highlights 50 outreach programs Biobank and Chairperson of Qatar Genome our commitment to fostering local product innovation and Programme Committee, described as supporting the development of SMEs in Qatar,” said Dr. Richard 51 The program is designed to develop a moving Qatar “one step closer” to making O’Kennedy, Vice President of Research, Development and common focus on the testing of solar- preventative medicine a reality. Innovation at Qatar Foundation. based devices and systems within the desert environment of Qatar, and “The success of the medical research consequently accelerate the development at Qatar Biobank, and ultimately the of these technologies and the use of solar realization of precision medicine, depends energy in Qatar – with the knowledge these on how actively the people of Qatar efforts create having potential benefit for contribute to our program,” she said. “I other countries. thank everyone who has so far registered for Qatar Biobank, and encourage everyone on genomics research that can advance also illustrated at the official opening of Through a collaboration with Qatar to join us in improving the efficiency of the precision medicine within, and beyond, the a groundbreaking addition to Qatar’s Electricity and Water Company, launched in country’s healthcare, which is an important two countries. “This agreement will see health landscape. 2018, QEERI is now developing an advanced national duty.” our two projects benefiting from a strategic Multi Effect Distillation plant that can test alliance and the pooling of research talent Sidra Medicine, a world-leading women’s ideas for reducing energy consumption Through a research and development and resources from both nations,” said and children’s hospital and center for and improve the energy efficiency of water agreement between QF member Qatar Dr. Al Thani. crucial medical research and education, desalination technologies. And as QEERI Genome Programme (QGP) – a project was inaugurated by Her Highness Sheikha works with local farmers to develop and generating genome sequencing and Meeting needs Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar implement a renewable power system for molecular data about the Qatari population, Foundation, who, in a speech at the commercial farming, the institute installed helping to chart a path toward personalized QF’s investment in biomedical research celebration of its opening, said: “We can say a solar energy system on farms that are medical care - and Genomics England, indicates its commitment to helping that Sidra Medicine is perhaps one of the part of the pilot phase and assessed the signed in April 2019, the door has been to transform healthcare in Qatar – a most ambitious and far-reaching projects in water quality of their wells. opened for Qatar and the UK to collaborate commitment that, in November 2018, was Qatar over the past two decades. Research, Development and Innovation
“It has rapidly achieved positive impacts maternal-fetal medicine services that beyond national borders. It has become a include non-invasive prenatal testing – all regional destination of medical tourism for within a year of being inaugurated. QNRF and TAMUQ launch patients from the region and beyond.” Empowering innovators STEM Hub Home to more than 4,000 clinical and support staff of over 85 nationalities, and On the stage of Stars of Science – QF’s The task of nurturing a new generation of scientists and offering more than 50 services, Sidra innovation-focused ‘edutainment reality’ researchers in Qatar was boosted in 2019 by the opening of the Medicine has met the growing need for TV show – many young Arab innovators STEM Hub, a collaboration between QF member Qatar National specialist children’s and maternity care have experienced some of the most special Research Fund and QF partner university Texas A&M University in Qatar by offering services previously moments in their lives. In November 2018, at Qatar. unavailable within the country – and, in the show had a special moment of its own. many cases, across the entire region. The facility includes cutting-edge technology and specialized The celebrations to mark the 10th learning modules – including mentoring by experienced Its range of technology includes intra- anniversary of Stars of Science brought researchers - that help students learn STEM (science, operative MRIs and robotics-assisted together 51 alumni from its first 10 technology, engineering, and math) skills in a creative way, surgical systems, helping the hospital’s seasons, to talk about their experiences, while also being a platform for them to exchange scientific experts – including some of the world’s their inventions, and how appearing on the ideas, work on projects, and find out about how they can pursue best practitioners in their fields – treat show has propelled them along their tech careers in science, research, and innovation. complex and challenging conditions. Sidra innovation journey. also has a significant focus on biomedical and clinical research designed to improve Established to empower young Arab men 52 patient care, including a collaboration with and women to be the drivers of scientific QGP and the gathering of data to develop a and technological innovation in the Arab 53 better understanding of childhood diabetes world, Stars of Science now has an in Qatar. And it offers medical education alumni network that spans 131 people and continuous professional development in 18 countries, who have collectively opportunities of the highest caliber to raised more than USD 14 million for their healthcare professionals. ventures while founding businesses, creating jobs, and inspiring others to follow QCRI’s research saw 6 patents granted Just weeks before its inauguration, Sidra in their footsteps. Khalid Aboujassoum, Medicine carried out Qatar’s first successful who in 2012 became the show’s first Qatari and 1 commercialized in 2019 separation of conjoined twins. Since then, winner, is among them, and he summed its teams have conducted the hospital’s first up the essence of the show by saying: live-donor renal transplants; carried out “Stars of Science truly embodies Qatar please remember that your ideas matter, with congestive heart failure by ensuring the first pediatric endoscopic cauterization Foundation’s commitment to its vision of and are definitely worth exploring.” efficient blood flow through the heart. “To brain surgery procedure in Qatar, treating unlocking human potential.” be given the opportunity to save lives is a condition that could have left a baby girl Meanwhile, Season 11 saw Stars of a blessing,” he said after his victory was with severe disabilities or even proved fatal; The winner of Stars of Science’s landmark Science’s first double-elimination, its announced. and saved the life of a baby boy born with Season 10 was Palestinian neurosurgeon first baby – contestant Nuha Abu Yousef, multiple life-threatening malformations. Walid Albanna, whose smart wearable retina a Jordanian doctor, gave birth during her “My family supported me and my idea from camera increases the quality of aftercare for progress to the Grand Final – and Youssef El the very beginning, and my mother even Sidra Medicine has also launched the patients who have suffered a stroke. Having Azouzi become the latest to wear the crown became my project’s very first investor. Middle East’s first specialized pediatric won over the expert jury and won out in the of the Arab world’s best innovator. They, and Stars of Science, believed in me – robotic surgery program, a state-of-the-art public vote, Albanna said: “To all the kids and they have changed my life.” sleep laboratory, a fibroid removal program, out there with heads full of dazzling ideas The Moroccan doctor developed the Flow a pediatric trauma program, and advanced for how to improve lives across the world, Modulator Stent, designed to help patients Research, Development and Innovation
23 QATARI tech startups incubated Inside QSTP: the facts and figures 31 INNOVATIVE PRODUCTS behind Qatar’s tech produced and commercialized innovation hub OVER 1,000 PEOPLE have benefited from QSTP’s innovation programs
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55 OVER 50 COMPANIES including 20 international companies – OVER QAR4.3 BILLION are currently based at QSTP invested in RDI activities by international companies registered at QSTP
OVER 5,000 PEOPLE have worked at QSTP-based 115 INVESTMENTS IN companies since 2008 REGIONAL COMPANIES QSTP covers an area larger than through partnership with 500 Startups 125 SOCCER PITCHES READING IS AN INTEGRAL ELEMENT OF NURTURING A SOCIETY OF LEADERS – EQUIPPED WITH KNOWLEDGE, BROAD AND OPEN MINDSETS, AND POSITIVE VALUES, AND EMPOWERED TO MAKE LEARNING A CONSTANT PART OF THEIR LIVES.”
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Community Development Community Development
58 Opportunity and The strength and vibrancy of a nation finds and the Arabic language; encourage people 59 a mirror in its people – in their health and to adopt healthy, active lifestyles; recognize activeness, their creativity and desire to the importance of sustainability and how Empowerment seek out knowledge, the way they embrace they can weave it into their lives; unlock sustainability as an intrinsic element of their creative ability and engage with arts their lives, and their capacity to interact with and culture; and recognize the importance people from their own and other culture. of dialogue and interaction. And they have a central focus on youth empowerment, Providing opportunities for Qatar’s offering young people opportunities population to live their lives in this way is to explore their talent, broaden their vital to Qatar Foundation (QF), which is why aspirations, channel their energy, and learn community development stands at the core new skills that will serve them well on their of the organization’s mission. Shaped by path into the future. the needs of society, the activities, events, and initiatives that QF makes possible in Through its own community development this area are designed to provide a platform initiatives, and those it operates in for social engagement, empowerment, partnership with stakeholders and local and personal growth – strengthening organizations, QF aims to foster a society community and cultural bonds, and helping that is strong in both body and mind. As to nurture a nation of active citizens. an open and inclusive organization, it recognizes the social value that flows from The spectrum of QF’s community people of different ages, backgrounds, development efforts runs wide. They aim to and cultures, and with different interests, preserve and promote the culture of Qatar coming together for enjoyment, discovery, Community Development
SPORT HAS THE CAPACITY NOT JUST TO EXCITE, BUT TO INSPIRE, UNIFY, TRANSFORM HORIZONS, AND BRING TOGETHER PEOPLE OF ALL AGES, CULTURES, AND BACKGROUNDS, WHICH IS WHY ITS IMPACT STRETCHES FAR BEYOND THE SPORTING ARENA.”
sport and physical activity, and the inspire the community of Qatar to recognize acquisition of knowledge. the world of knowledge and discovery that reading opens up, and how, by firing QF is a focal point for community life imagination and exploration, it can widen in Qatar – from horse-riding to career- people’s perspectives and horizons. building, from sporting tournaments and activities that promote health and wellbeing As it evolves, Qatar Reads will reach out to debate learning and sustainability to people with varying needs, lifestyles, education, from cultural heritage to art and and characteristics – from young children 60 music. By bringing all of these elements and their families to teenagers, university together through a cohesive, extensive students, and teachers – with specialized 61 focus on community development, QF is programs, initiatives, and channels being playing a pivotal role in shaping a healthier, used to achieve the goal of inspiring a love more creative, more active, and more of reading that is Qatar-wide. Its innovative socially-aware population in Qatar. concepts include the Family Reading Program, which looks to make reading a fun Driving positive change A culture of reading and exciting habit for children and promote 123,000+ people it as a family activity, where parents reading The way in which QF’s community When QF established its National Reading with their sons and daughters becomes participated in QGBC development initiatives continuously Campaign, it created momentum in part of everyday home life. grow and evolve is also illustrated by encouraging young people in Qatar to events and programs its Akhlaquna Award – recognizing and appreciate the value of picking up a book, “Reading is an integral element of celebrating young people whose projects and what it can bring to their lives. In 2019, nurturing a society of leaders – equipped in 2019 reflect exemplary moral character, while this momentum was built upon with the with knowledge, broad and open mindsets, also aiming to be a driver of positive unveiling of Qatar Reads. and positive values, and empowered to “Qatar Reads is the natural, innovative behavioral change within society. make learning a constant part of their next step for the movement initially Developed through a partnership between lives,” said Machaille Hassan Al-Naimi, represented by QF’s National Reading First announced by Her Highness Sheikha QF and the Ministry of Culture and Sports, President of Community Development, QF. Campaign. It will drive engagement Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Qatar Reads is an initiative designed to with reading in new ways, and have a Foundation, in 2017, Akhlaquna reflects create a culture of reading across the nation “It prompts a desire for exploration and new audience scope, but its overarching QF’s commitment to inspiring young people, in an innovative, interactive, and inclusive discovery, qualities that are valuable in life purpose will be the same – to raise and all members of society, to be active, way. Through connecting with different and vital for the future of Qatar and the awareness of the value of reading, not thoughtful, and compassionate citizens audiences in specifically-tailored ways, the generation who will shape that future. only for intellectual stimulation, but for who improve the lives of others through the aim of Qatar Reads is to encourage and discovery and enjoyment.” example they set. Community Development
The projects it rewards reflect the timeless it – because working hard is the best way to and universal values exhibited by the make a positive impact on the community.” Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) that have relevance in every society and culture. But Inspiring through art A platform for dialogue through its outreach efforts to people from Experts from the fields of sport, media, entrepreneurship, and all walks of life, Akhlaquna also seeks to QF is dedicated to providing opportunities international politics shared their experiences and perspectives emphasize the interconnectivity between for all members of Qatar’s society to with members of Qatar’s community during 2018/19 through QF’s knowledge and morality and encourage explore, engage with, and be inspired by Education City Speaker Series. them to make its core moral values – art – because of art’s capacity to open mercy, honesty, generosity, and tolerance up avenues of knowledge, creativity, and Focused on key themes that affect global society, the Education – a central part of their lives. discovery, invoke curiosity, challenge people City Speaker Series is a platform for people across Qatar to hear to think critically, and broaden perspectives, from, and interact with, thought-leaders on a range of topics, worldviews, and understanding. reflecting QF’s belief in the power of dialogue, discourse, and the exchange of ideas and opinions. Qatar Diabetes This commitment to art was reflected in December 2019 with the unveiling of the Guests who spoke at QF during the ongoing series of public talks Association Seeroo fi al Ardh – the final work of the included His Excellency António Guterres and Amina Mohammed, late, world-renowned artist M F Husain – respectively Secretary General and Deputy Secretary-General registered 2,825 at Education City. Part of a wide-ranging of the United Nations; Ibtihaj Muhammad, a member of the US project undertaken by the artist to chronicle fencing team and the first Muslim-American female athlete to new patients in 2019 the journey of human civilization through win an Olympic media; 60 Minutes journalist Magalie Laguerre- the lens of the Arab region’s history, the Wilkinson; film-maker, futurist, and philosopher Jason Silva; and 62 The winner of Akhlaquna’s Cycle 2 Seeroo fi al Ardh could not be finished fashion entrepreneur Dame Natalie Massenet. was revealed at QF’s Convocation 2019 before Husain passed away. Now QF has 63 ceremony, with the award going to Nawal ensured his artistic vision will live on, and Al-Kurbi, Almazun Al-Marri, and Amal Al- be open to all. Gherainig, and their mobile app Mobsron. Providing people who are blind and visually Housed within a permanent building impaired with a tool to help them order at Education City, the Seeroo fi al Ardh food, review ingredients, and compare comprises the flying machines of Abbas “dream project”, adding: “M F Husain In October 2019, QF member Mathaf: Arab prices, the idea for Mobsron stemmed from Ibn Firnas and Leonardo da Vinci, glass walked the earth teaching us to appreciate Museum of Modern Art began its four-month its creators’ belief that every person has the horses, and vintage cars, which move life. He said ‘See the form, the contours, hosting of El Anatsui: Triumphant Scale, an right to live a dignified, independent life and to music selected by Husain and stand and the colors through unbiased, exhibition encompassing every medium used to have equal opportunities to participate in, against a backdrop of a giant mosaic unconditional eyes. If you do that, this world by El Anatsui – regarded by many as Africa’s and contribute to, society. depicting horses, paying tribute to Qatar’s will be a better place’.” most prominent living artist – across his equine heritage and the late artist’s love 50-year career. The largest-ever exhibition The benefit that Akhlaquna brings to young of the animals. It reflects how first nature, Meanwhile, in addition to its Art Trail of his work, it was organized through a people who feel their ideas can help spread then machines, advanced the ambitions program – guided tours that showcase collaboration between Qatar Museums, positive values throughout their community of people throughout the Arab region, artwork across Education City to the Mathaf, Kunstmuseum Bern and Guggenheim was summed up by Al-Gherainig, who said: and how – even before the European public, inspiring cultural appreciation and Bilbao, with exhibits ranging from drawing, “It has given me the confidence to follow Renaissance – the Arab world experienced creativity within Qatar’s community – QF’s sketches, and prints to sculptures made of my beliefs – without hesitation – and to an age of enlightenment, innovation, and ongoing cultural collaboration with Qatar wood, ceramics, and even bottle caps. challenge myself.” experimentation. Museums saw two segments of the Berlin Wall unveiled in its Humanitarium building, Open environment Urging other youth in Qatar to recognize how At the installation’s opening ceremony, home to QF partner university Georgetown they can be society’s difference-makers, she Husain’s daughter-in-law Najma Husain University in Qatar, and Qatar National QF’s role as a community hub was advised: “Work on an idea and implement told guests the Seeroo fi al Ardh was his Convention Centre. epitomized in March 2019 when it hosted Community Development
an 11-day celebration of the foods and football world – including a Legend’s Game the cultures of the world: the Qatar and talks by Dutch football legend Johan International Food Festival (QIFF), Neeskens and former England international organized by Qatar National Michael Owen. Tourism Council. Empowering and unifying As a strategic partner of QIFF, QF staged the festival’s 10th edition at Oxygen Park QF’s belief in the power of sport to – an open space for physical activity, inspire and unite people also showed as relaxation, and engagement with nature it welcomed Chinese football club Dalian within Education City – where tens of Professional FC’s under-14 team to thousands of visitors enjoyed the cuisine on Education City through a partnership with offer at around 170 booths and food trucks, the Wanda Group, an official global partner as well as masterclasses with chefs from of world football’s governing body FIFA. around the world, nutrition workshops for children, and a range of other activities. During the week-long tour, the 22 aspiring footballers from China, and 18 young people from QF’s sport and community program, In 2019, 892 horses had the chance to be flag-bearers at the FIFA Club World Cup Qatar 2019™. The and 196 riders Dalian Professional FC side also played three friendly matches against teams 64 competed for Al from QF, Qatar Academy Doha, and Aspire Academy, and trained at QF’s facilities. 65 Shaqab Through QF’s partnership with Wanda, The hosting of QIFF reflects QF’s efforts six young members of QF’s sport and to promote Education City as an open, community programs – including its Ability- welcoming destination and an experience Friendly Sports Program, which provides for all members of Qatar’s community, sporting opportunities for children as and visitors to the country, to enjoy – as, young as three years who are on the autism in December 2019, did the inaugural youth spectrum – also had the unforgettable football festival of the Supreme Committee experience of being FIFA Flag Bearers at for Delivery & Legacy’s (SC) Generation the two semi-finals of the FIFA Women’s Amazing program. World Cup France 2019™.
Held over five days at Oxygen Park, with “Sport has the capacity not just to excite, QF as a strategic partner, the football- but to inspire, unify, transform horizons, focused festival brought together 140 young and bring together people of all ages, leaders from 24 countries who, through cultures, and backgrounds, which is why its the game, have been inspired to implement impact stretches far beyond the sporting social change in their communities. arena,” said Mohammed Fakhroo, Executive Celebrating social inclusion and promoting Director of Outreach and Institutional gender equality, it featured football for Advancement, QF. “We look forward to development workshops, activities led by continuing to work closely with the Wanda youth ambassadors, cultural performances, Group to support youth development and and events with top names from the engagement in Qatar.” Community Development
Inspiration through sport also came “The Arab world has a very rich equine from four of the leading names in the US heritage and, though events such as this, basketball world when they visited QF in Al Shaqab preserves and perpetuates this September 2018, with the stars from the aspect of Qatari culture,” said Khalifa Al National Basketball Association – who Attiyah, Executive Director of Al Shaqab. visited Doha at the invitation of the SC – holding a masterclass for schoolchildren at Through these and other sport-centered Education City, pass on tips to students, and events and initiatives, QF continues to take on Qatar’s national basketball team in demonstrate its support for the FIFA a friendly match. World Cup Qatar 2022™, Qatar’s sporting ambitions, and the importance it places on empowering people to enjoy sport, be In 2019, Qatar active, and live healthily.
Philharmonic Identifying future goals Orchestra had: Falling under QF’s overarching community development scope are a range of centers and entities, all with their own identity and 45 collaborations purpose, but unified in their commitment to educating, empowering, and energizing with international people and in their contribution to 66 QF’s mission to build a strong, active artists Qatari society. 67 They include Qatar Career Development Center (QCDC), which aims to help Qatar’s 7 collaborations youth identify and achieve their education with regional artists and career goals. In July 2018, QCDC – through a partnership with Qatar-based children’s entertainment city KidzMonda Doha – launched a first-of-its-kind Career 11 collaborations Awareness Center to familiarize children and young people with career guidance with local artists concepts, and steer them toward career paths that match their interests and skills. The establishment of the edutainment city- And, in February and March 2019, QF’s based center was followed in October 2019 world-class equestrian center Al Shaqab by the opening of the Career Development was the venue for two showcases of equine Center – a recreational education center excellence. It staged the opening stage of supporting career planning for young the Longines Global Champions Tour 2019, people – through QCDC’s partnership with followed by the pinnacle of Al Shaqab’s KidZania Doha. equestrian calendar, CHI AL SHAQAB 2019, a three-day international competition 2019 also saw QCDC complete the first featuring the best in showjumping, edition of its ‘My Career – My Future’ dressage, and para dressage. program for high school students; its Community Development
‘Career Academy’, which provided insight language of communication”. into an array of potential career tracks; and its Career Readiness Program, providing It was not the only milestone to be career guidance services for students with celebrated by QatarDebate during 2019, Sustainability on the move mild-to-moderate learning challenges. as, in January, it held the inaugural The Education City Tram – a pioneering sustainable European Universities Arabic Debating transport system – was launched by QF in December 2019, Championship in the Austrian capital bringing a new form of environmentally-friendly travel to 7,011 people of Vienna, with 20 teams from 15 Qatar. European nations participating. participated in QBG’s The electrically-powered tram system, which uses a The year also saw a landmark occasion groundbreaking form of battery-charging technology, is educational programs for Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra, designed to make QF a more sustainable, interconnected, a QF member, as it marked its 10th and accessible environment, providing a mode of travel that in 2019 anniversary in February with a gala aims to reduce vehicle use and emissions in and around concert at Qatar National Convention Education City. It is also designed to educate people about Centre, featuring renowned conductor the importance of sustainable transport. Under QF’s community development pillar, Dmitrij Kitajenko as Conductor of Honor education, training, and professional for a program almost identical to the Once fully opened, the 11.5km, 24-station network – which guidance is also the focus of Qatar Nanny orchestra’s first-ever performance. is open to the public - will provide a seamless link within Training Academy (QNTA) , which enables and between Education City’s North and South campuses, Arabic-speaking Muslim nannies to become “Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra started via a fleet of 19 state-of-the-art Avenio trams. qualified childcare providers, and supports as an ambitious musical project designed 68 them in teaching and promoting Islamic to bring music appreciation to Qatari values within the home. In 2019, QNTA – audiences,” said Kurt Meister, the 69 whose training program focuses on cultural orchestra’s executive director. “It has traditions while also including specialized since grown into a world-class orchestra, courses in all aspects of childcare – featuring some of the best musicians from welcomed its seventh batch of nannies, throughout the globe. We have toured comprising 45 trainees. internationally and brought our fusion of Arabic and Western cultural expression to Arab world to enjoy and create music, aspect of realizing Qatar’s economic and Landmark occasions Qatar, the region, and the rest of the world and appreciate how it buildings bridges social goals. Sustainability runs through – through music.” of cultural understanding, so fellow QF every facet of QF’s mission, as it stands at the The international reach and impact of QF member Qatar Music Academy adopts forefront of supporting the nation’s sustainable member QatarDebate – Qatar’s national Exemplifying this, in October 2019 the this ethos as it continues to nurture the development, and empowering its community debating organization, helping to shape orchestra took center stage at the United nation’s next generation of musical talent. to adopt sustainable lifestyles and habits. global citizens and thought-leaders through Nations General Assembly in New York Providing promising young musicians with debate learning while also promoting use for the 2019 UN Day Concert. Marking the a music education program built around Through its community outreach and of the Arabic language – was extended as anniversary of the Charter of the United both practice and theory, it incorporates research efforts, and by providing it organized the first US Universities Arabic Nations, the 2019 UN Day was organized both an Arab and a Western classical sustainability education and training, Debating Championship, which took place by the Permanent Mission of the State of music curriculum, with its students leadership, and opportunities for at Harvard University in October 2019 and Qatar to the UN in collaboration with the regularly performing alongside established collaboration, Qatar Green Building Council featured 23 teams. Department of Global Communications, musicians in high-profile settings in Qatar. (QGBC) has a key role in cultivating a and featured composers, singers, and greener nation. In fall 2018 and 2019, the According to Dr. Hayat Abdullah Marafi, musicians from Qatar. Promoting sustainable living QF member organized two editions of Qatar Executive Director of QatarDebate: “The Sustainability Week, aimed at fostering a championship marks a new beginning for Just as Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra QF is a driver, leader, and unifier of Qatar- sustainable culture in Qatar by engaging spreading the Arabic language as a global inspires people throughout Qatar and the wide efforts to advance sustainability, a vital people and organizations across the Community Development
country to recognize its importance through institutions to adopt environmentally- hundreds of activities. friendly practices and reduce their paper, plastic, and metal consumption as well as Qatar Sustainability Week is a platform their e-waste levels. Youth make their for organizations in Qatar to showcase their innovative solutions to environmental Also playing its part in enhancing voices heard challenges facing Qatar and the region, and environmental sustainability in Qatar is Through a collaboration between Doha Forum and QF, the to organize eco-friendly, awareness-raising QF member Qur’anic Botanic Garden Doha Forum Youth Edition – the first two editions of which were initiatives – from beach cleaning to not (QBG), which conserves and exhibits the held in November 2018 and 2019 – has provided hundreds of using plastic bottles and bags. More than plants mentioned in the Holy Qur’an, the young people with a platform to join the conversation about key 70,000 people participated across the third Hadith, and the Sunnah, and explains their issues confronting our world. and fourth editions of the initiative. enduring importance and relevance to modern society. By encouraging people Centered around dialogue, diplomacy, and diversity, the Doha to appreciate nature, it aims to inspire Forum Youth Edition is designed to nurture leadership and Education City Mosque people to respect, and take care of, their advocacy skills among youth, with debates being steered by environment. young leaders in a range of fields. It is held ahead of the wider Doha Forum, which takes place each December in Qatar. In 2019, QBG took a prominent role in the 119 participants International Horticultural Exhibition ‘Expo At the second edition of the Doha Forum Youth Edition, held 2019’ in the Chinese capital of Beijing, at Education City, discussions focused on climate change, completed Arabic as part of a pavilion hosted by Qatar. Its education in conflict zones, and uprooting radicalism, and display, titled ‘Under the Shade of the Sidra highlighted the importance of education in tackling the greatest 70 language programs Tree’, symbolized Qatar’s heritage while challenges the world faces. also carrying a sustainability message for a 71 6,000 Ramadan and Eid global audience. “We participate in international exhibitions festival visitors related to horticulture and environmental sustainability to encourage the community to preserve the environment and revive education; and running community condition, Dr. Abdullah Al Hamaq, Executive 2,003 children enrolled Islamic cultural heritage,” said Fatima outreach programs that include diabetes Director of QDA, said: “We want them to Saleh Al-Khulaifi, Manager of QBG. “It also prevention camps. understand the importance of their role in learning programs extends a bridge across the world and in society and encourage them to engage promotes social responsibility toward the In 2019, this portfolio of programs was with others, as well as to develop their environment.” expanded as the first Al Tahadi Diabetes personalities. The programs of the camps Girls Camp was held, specifically targeted at combine sport and fun, together with 200 tours conducted Tackling diabetes girls aged 12-15 who have Type 1 diabetes. education and support, and provide them Including educational, sport, cultural, and with the tools they need to live happy, Diabetes remains one of Qatar’s greatest leisure activities, the three-day camp saw healthy, balanced lives.” 600 volunteers health challenges, and for 25 years Qatar QDA experts, dietitians, and educators help Diabetes Association (QDA), a QF member, participants develop their understanding of Cherishing and preserving the past, has been supporting those with the self-care and diabetes management. addressing the needs of the present, Meanwhile, more than 90 organizations – condition, and their families; promoting and helping to shape Qatar’s future, the highest number so far – participated diabetes awareness and prevention by Explaining how QDA’s camps aim to QF’s community development efforts in QGBC’s seventh annual No Paper Day encouraging the adoption of healthy empower young people with diabetes continue to educate, empower, and open in 2019. The nationwide campaign aims to lifestyles; enhancing the capacity of and give them the educational and moral up opportunities for people to grow and a encourage schools, businesses, and other healthcare providers to deliver diabetes support that helps them control the nation’s society to thrive. IN A WORLD INCREASINGLY DEFINED BY THE TECHNOLOGY AROUND US, WE’VE WORKED CLOSELY WITH OUR PARTNERS TO PRESENT A PROGRAM THAT PLACES THE HUMAN ELEMENT AT THE FOREFRONT OF EVERY LEARNING EXPERIENCE.”
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Global Initiatives Global Initiatives
74 Making a World As Qatar Foundation’s (QF) vision and issues, and from producing globally- mission have evolved and expanded, so has relevant research to offering opportunities 75 the scope of its efforts. Its contribution to for learning and discovery, QF’s global Qatar and its people is built on areas that initiatives connect nations, identify of Difference drive positive change for a sustainable solutions to challenges, catalyze new future: quality education, the advancement thinking, and forge bonds of cross-cultural of innovation, and strengthening the fabric understanding. of society through inclusivity, opportunity, exposure to knowledge, and empowerment. QF has a national soul. But it also has an international outlook – and the capacity to These cornerstones of human and social bring the world together, with the aim of progress also guide QF’s global view. As making the world better. well as supporting Qatar to realize its developmental vision, QF aims to benefit Reference point the world, through initiatives designed to help build a healthier, more engaged, more In the context of education, the world came open-minded, and more unified global together at QF in November 2019 for the society; shape the future of education; and WISE Summit 2019 – with the goal being to foster a deeper, wider understanding of the explore how the future of learning can be Arab world and the Arabic language. reimagined.
From delivering projects to influencing As QF’s global education think-tank, the policy, from providing platforms for the World Innovation Summit for Education multinational exchange of ideas to enabling (WISE) is a worldwide community of dialogue and debate on the world’s key partners, thought-leaders, and change- Global Initiatives
makers, whose collective impetus is to should teach students to be happy, if advance quality education and emphasize neuroscience makes children smarter, its role in empowering individuals whether students care about what they and societies. In the 10 years since its learn, and if school grading systems have establishment, WISE has become a global had their day. reference point for discussing, identifying, and sharing new approaches to education. Speaking at the opening of the summit, Dr. Armen Sarkissian, President of the More than 3,200 educators, decision- Republic of Armenia, said: “I believe makers, and experts, representing 100-plus education should have one important countries – a record attendance - attended function – to find talent. the latest edition of the WISE Summit, held under the theme UnLearn, ReLearn: What “Every child is born with some talent, It Means To Be Human. It offered them the and, as educators, your job is to nurture opportunity to consider, debate, and define it. Secondly, you must remember that not what a ‘good’ education really means, how everyone has the same privileges as you education can nurture the whole person, – many are deprived of basic rights such and how to foster lifelong learning. as education. And finally, I want to tell the youth to believe in themselves.”
Doha Debates has The opening ceremony saw Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson 76 partnered with: of Qatar Foundation, present Larry Rosenstock, CEO of High Tech High – a 77 US network of schools built around The United Nations the principles of equity, personalized learning, authentic work, and collaborative TED design – with the 2019 WISE Prize for “In a world increasingly defined by the - visitors explored coding and Artificial Education, the first award of its kind to technology around us, we’ve worked closely Intelligence in Learning Labs; participated recognize outstanding individual or team with our partners to present a program that in sessions blending science and creativity; Vox Media contributions to education. places the human element at the forefront of interacted with Qatar’s young female every learning experience,” said Dr. Ameena change-makers in speed-mentoring Shared Studios Interactive learning Hussain, Director of Programs & Content, sessions; and enjoyed a wellbeing and WISE, as Doha Learning Days opened. community activities space with a focus on Fortify Rights In the immediate build-up to the summit, both physical fitness and personal growth. WISE hosted a community-wide celebration “Whether it be students working Activities specifically for children with of education, Doha Learning Days – Qatar’s collaboratively to tackle questions around special needs and their families – including NowThis first experiential learning festival. the climate crisis, families coming together coding and computer literacy, wellbeing to explore issues of wellbeing and mental through body movement, and workshops on Doha Forum QF’s Education City was the setting for a six- health through play, or just interacting inclusive learning, care, and accessibility – day program, involving more than 50 local with members of the community through were also provided. eNCA and international partners, that gave people art, music, or simple conversation, Doha throughout Qatar the chance to participate Learning Days aims to bring us all together Beyond Qatar, New York and Paris were the in interactive learning activities and in an exciting exploration of learning.” latest cities to host WISE@ events – regional During the two-day conference, more experiences designed to show how education forums that take WISE’s goal of exchanging than 150 sessions and debates centered is fundamental to the growth of individuals Over the course of Doha Learning Days education knowledge and experiences into on topics such as topics whether schools and the strength and vibrancy of societies. – which was sponsored by Exxon Mobil the heart of its global community. Global Initiatives
WISH SEES ITSELF AS PROVIDING A SOLID WISH develops PLATFORM THAT ENABLES THE MEETING OF groundbreaking emergency GLOBAL EXPERTS AND STAKEHOLDERS TO DISCUSS KEY HEALTHCARE ISSUES.” healthcare manual
For the first time, an Arabic version of a vital guide for emergency healthcare teams who treat children suffering from blast injuries has been published – thanks to QF’s World Gathering together education thinkers, to help improve healthcare systems, and Innovation Summit for Health (WISH). practitioners, and innovators, WISE@ showcasing health-focused innovations events feature expert panels tackling that can have a direct and positive impact The Paediatric Blast Injury Field Manual was originally educational challenges and solutions, on communities, WISH is instrumental in published in 2019 by UK-based charity Save The Children, informal discussions about education trends, enabling vital global conversations about with its Arabic equivalent subsequently being commissioned interactive learning experiences, and insight global healthcare, and turning these and printed by WISH with the support of the Translation and into transformative education projects. conversations into societal benefit. Interpreting Institute, part of QF’s Hamad Bin Khalifa University.
Held in September 2018, WISE@NY In November 2018, almost 2,200 healthcare It is the first-ever Arabic field manual specifically designed focused on ‘Learning Revolutions: experts, innovators and entrepreneurs, to support healthcare workers who treat children injured by Creating Educational Environments for health ministers, and policymakers, explosions in conflict zones and post-conflict areas. WISH’s 78 Empowerment and Inclusion, with WISE@ lent their voices to these conversations longstanding collaboration with Save The Children has seen the Paris – which took place in February 2019 at the 2018 edition of the WISH Summit charity distribute the manual in Yemen, Syria, Iraq, and Libya. 79 under the patronage of Emmanuel Macron, in Doha, the largest to date. Its opening President of France – exploring the learning ceremony reflected Qatar’s commitment to societies of tomorrow, with topics including healthcare innovation and the advancement ways of rethinking K-12 education, of precision medicine, as Her Highness empowering teachers and education Sheikha Moza bint Nasser was presented leaders, education’s role in preparing with the first ‘Q-chip’, highlighting the children for work, and how to cultivate progress made by QF’s Qatar Genome “We simply cannot stand idly by while During the summit’s closing ceremony, global citizenship. Programme and Qatar Biobank in others suffer. A healthier world is within our WISH and the World Health Organization developing the first gene array based on grasp, but we can succeed only if we are announced a global database of Chief Healthcare community data from thousands of Qatari genomes. determined in our efforts.” Nursing Officers, which will become a digital communications platform for these Building a healthier world through global The summit drove home the message Summit topics included eye health, data officers to share ideas and concerns with collaboration is the goal of the World that collaboration across borders and science and Artificial Intelligence, anxiety each other, wherever they are in the world. Innovation Summit for Health (WISH), a QF disciplines, and sharing innovative and depression, the provision of healthcare initiative that has created an international solutions that address the world’s most in remote areas, and how healthcare Embracing active lifestyles healthcare community united in its serious medical issues, gives change the systems can make long-term plans. Among dedication to addressing today’s most best chance of happening. Summing up its speakers were Mary Robinson, former Health checks, physical and mental pressing health challenges. this message in a film screened at the President of Ireland, who focused on the wellness activities, free events promoting opening ceremony, Jimmy Carter, the impact of climate change on global health, the value of healthy living, and an airborne By convening and collaborating with health 39th President of the US and a Nobel and legendary Olympic swimmer Michael guest all formed part of the inaugural Doha experts and decision-makers from around Laureate, said: “With political will, action, Phelps, who spoke candidly about anxiety, Healthcare Week, organized by WISH in the world, creating and disseminating and commitment, we can help make a depression, and his own battles with mental collaboration with Qatar’s Ministry of Public ideas, practices, and research designed difference in people’s lives. health issues during his career. Health and QF, in November 2018. Global Initiatives
IN PERSON AND DIGITALLY, OUR DEBATES ARE QF announces ’50 percent A POSITIVE STEP TOWARD REAL SOLUTIONS female’ panel pledge ACROSS THE REGION AND THE WORLD.” QF’s belief in inclusivity, equality of opportunity, and enabling the widest possible range of perspectives to be brought to crucial issues and challenges was illustrated by its regionally- groundbreaking March 2019 pledge to ensure women will make Unfolding over seven days immediately training for ophthalmologists, nursing up at least half the panel speakers at all its conferences and before the WISH 2018 Summit, and leadership training, and guidance for events. attended by more than 10,000 people, the caregivers of people with diabetes. festival’s 54 activities raised awareness of The pledge will take effect from the start of 2020 across health resources in Qatar and encouraged Dialogue and understanding the organization, building on the efforts QF has made over the local community to embrace healthy, more than two decades in ensuring everyone can play their active lifestyles. Supported by 18 local and Shining a spotlight on issues that stand at part in advancing local and global society – without gender, international partners, it also welcomed the intersection of religious and medical background, or culture standing in their way. the Flying Eye Hospital, a converted cargo ethics, WISH and the Vatican’s Pontifical plane and fully-functioning medical facility Academy for Life (PAL) held a joint Rome Announcing the pledge, Her Excellency Sheikha Hind bint operated by global eye health charity Orbis, symposium in December 2019 as a platform Hamad Al Thani, Vice Chairperson and CEO of Qatar Foundation, which flies all over the world providing for inter-faith dialogue and fostering said: “By committing to having at least 50 percent female 80 medical treatment to those in need. broader understanding of healthcare’s representation on all our conference and event panels from 2020 ethical dilemmas in healthcare. onward, we aim to further emphasize Qatar Foundation’s role 81 as a leader and driver of inclusivity and positive social change, Topics that Doha Debates has ‘Religious and Medical Ethics: Palliative nationally and regionally – and the necessity of both men and focused on are: Care and the Mental Health of the Elderly’ women being part of making this happen.” saw experts on ethics, medicine, Islam, Christianity, and Judaism gather at the Vatican to highlight gaps in modern Artificial Intelligence scholarship on palliative care, and investigate ways of tackling ethical Global Refugee Crisis challenges surrounding palliative care and The symposium saw WISH announce fresh voices and viewpoints to topics and religious bioethics from the perspective of three commitments to improving the themes that shape our world. Globalization healthcare practitioners whose spiritual implementation of palliative care in Qatar: backgrounds differ. the development of religious and medical Six years after the last airing of the original ethics training sessions for healthcare Doha Debates, the QF production returned Water Security Speaking at the symposium, Sultana Afdhal, workers,; targeted workshops; and, in February 2019 with its inaugural live CEO of WISH, said: “WISH sees itself as with PAL, the production of a practical event, showcasing its innovative new Capitalism providing a solid platform that enables the publication that helps healthcare workers concept and its goal of unlocking solutions meeting of global experts and stakeholders better understand the needs of people with to global challenges through diverse, Loss of Trust to discuss key healthcare issues. faith who are receiving palliative care. rigorous, and honest debate.
“We hope to initiate a conversation that has Unlocking solutions Doha Debates’ approach includes live To help enhance Qatar’s healthcare the genuine potential to benefit humanity as debates, digital videos, a TV series, blogs, expertise, workshops during Doha a whole, regardless of individual beliefs.” A new dimension on global dialogue is now podcasts, and majlis-style conversations Healthcare Week provided specialized being provided to the world by QF, through designed to bridge differences, build the relaunched Doha Debates – bringing consensus, and tackle urgent global issues Global Initiatives
through discourse and the exchange of Doha Debates. “It’s a showcase for all the perspectives. It retains the essence and passions and dramatic confrontations of the traditions that characterized Doha Debates Middle East and the world. from its inception in 2004, while also representing how the series has evolved to “We have to find solutions, personal and spark the imagination and participation of global, to the failed economics and politics people around the world. facing every one of us, in every part of the globe. And that search for solutions has to include global voices, representing The OSRA research grant – everyone affected by these challenges. launched by DIFI and QNRF – In person and digitally, our debates are a positive step toward real solutions across supports projects focused on: the region and the world.”
In February 2019, Doha Debates also hosted Family cohesion, marriage, a series of talks, in partnership with TED, during the TED Salon ‘Up for Debate’ in and divorce New York City. Speakers in the US city were joined by five groups of people from Family wellbeing Qatar, Rwanda, Afghanistan, the US, and Mexico, who shared their views in real time via walk-in shopping containers equipped 82 Parenthood and parenting with audiovisual devices, known as Portals - another example of how Doha Debates is 83 Family social policy combining the Arab tradition of discourse with innovation and technology to inspire a Its debut event at Qatar National Library new generation of change-makers. saw speakers from Qatar and abroad share and debate suggestions for alleviating Supporting families voice in emphasizing how families within education is the cornerstone for promoting the global refugee crisis. Further debates Qatar, the Arab world, and internationally the wellbeing of individuals, families, and have since focused on whether Artificial Through its research, its role in influencing need to be supported; and as a unifier of communities – a view which is supported Intelligence’s benefits outweigh its risks; policy, and its capacity to create international efforts to strengthen families, by scientific evidence,” said Dr. Sharifa Al- the arguments surrounding globalization; international networks of knowledge, QF it is a platform for sharing knowledge and Emadi, Executive Director of DIFI, which has water scarcity; capitalism; and loss of trust member Doha International Family Institute best practice in this field. special consultative status with the United in institutions. (DIFI) is integral to ensuring a cornerstone Nations Economic and Social Council. of Arab society – the family unit – remains In 2018, DIFI initiated and funded a book As well as taking place in Qatar, Doha robust, cohesive, and equipped to deal with on Arab family studies, with contributions During 2019, DIFI brought together Debates’ live events have been held in the challenges that modern life presents. from 28 scholars, to help bridge gaps in experts, policymakers, service providers, Edinburgh and Cape Town, and at the Paris global knowledge in this area; and unveiled and leading organizations in Qatar for Peace Forum 2019. Each debate sees an Reflecting the importance of strong families its Civil Society Statement on Parenting, a research forum on Family Wellbeing, international audience have the opportunity to the fabric of society, DIFI was established later presented at the United Nations focusing on the wellbeing of families living to suggest their own ideas and solutions, with the aim of expanding the knowledge Headquarters in New York as DIFI hosted a with autism, and work-family balance. before the live audience vote on those base on Arab families, and contribute to ‘Doha Briefing’ panel at the 57th Session of Meanwhile, its ‘Family Policies and proposed by the debate participants. developing a framework that educates the Commission for Social Development. Sustainable Development’ seminar in Paris and supports them. Through research, it illustrated DIFI’s commitment to ensuring “Doha Debates was never just a talk show,” advances family policies and programs; “The Civil Society Statement on Parenting family-related topics are high on the agenda said Amjad Atallah, managing director of through its advocacy role, it is a leading originated from DIFI’s belief that parental of those who drive global policy. Global Initiatives
And a series of family policy resources that deepen understanding of recommendations for the Arab region Arab culture; supports the professional emerged from DIFI’s ‘Child Wellbeing development of those who teach Arabic in Qatar’ symposium in Doha. Held in and subjects relating to the Arab world; HBKU Press launches new collaboration with Qatar’s Ministry of and brings students and teachers together titles and secures international Administrative Development, Labour and to hone the global competencies that will Social Affairs and UNICEF, it explored make them future-ready. awards policy ideas and solutions to complex issues affecting children and their families. QFI’s reach now extends to the US, A QF-based publishing house that provides a local and The symposium was followed by DIFI’s Canada, the UK, Germany, and Brazil, international platform for literature, discovery, and learning, Arab Family Forum on Marriage, where as well as Qatar. And its expansion and Hamad Bin Khalifa University Press (HBKU Press) is contributing the findings of the QF member’s research achievements in education and cultural to a vibrant culture of literacy and scholarship in Qatar and the reports on ‘The State of Marriage in connectivity over the decade since Middle East. the Arab World’ and ‘Marital Education its establishment were celebrated in Programs in the Arab World’ were Washington D.C. in December 2019, at Its works are showcased at some of the world’s top book fairs, with discussed. an anniversary event attended by 300 2019 seeing HBKU Press exhibit at the London Book Fair for the teachers, students, administrators, and second successive year and the Paris Book Fair for the first time. Building connections staff who are part of QFI’s community And during 2018/19, new titles published by HBKU Press included of learners. the English translation of After Coffee, the 2014 Sheikh Zayed For 10 years, Qatar Foundation Book Award winner; best-selling Afghan-American author Khaled International (QFI) has been building and The most recent chapters in QFI’s story Hosseini’s fourth book, Sea Prayer, in Arabic; and Journeys On A nurturing a global, diverse community of have seen it start working with two new US Football Carpet by Qatar-born journalist and author Matthias Krug, 84 learners and educators, and equipping schools supported by its grants: Success the inside story of the nation’s six-decade footballing journey. young people with the skills necessary to Academy Charter School in Minnesota, 85 thrive in the 21st Century through enabling which serves many Somali refugee families, On the awards front, four of HBKU Press’ titles were named winners them to explore the Arabic language and and Irving Elementary School in Montana, in the 2019 International Book Awards – which draw over 2,000 connect with the societies and cultures of the first school in the northwestern entries from across the world – with others reaching the finals, the Arab world. American state to be supported by QFI. while its children’s title A Recipe For Home, by Ghenwa Yehia, claimed first place in the cultural diversity category at the 2018 The QF member also unveiled its Purple Dragonfly Book Awards. Meanwhile, HBKU Press’ open DIFI has 16 research Classrooms Connections grants, providing access-focused academic platform QScience.com unveiled new funding for secondary schools with Arabic research on the negative effects of mental health stigma in Qatar, projects and 3 policy programs to connect virtually with peers and on Body Mass Index trends among the nation’s adolescents. in the Arab world, and to travel to Qatar projects and other Arabic-speaking countries; and developed a Virtual Exchange Toolkit, partnering with Participate.com to create a Established in 2009, QFI partners virtual exchange professional development with primary and secondary schools, site offering free courses to educators. universities, multilateral entities, and media to help prepare young people to in a time when it is most vital and necessary,” philanthropic organizations to run And QFI’s partnership with education- be global citizens by challenging them to said Omran Al Kuwari, CEO of QFI. programs in three core areas: Arabic focused video content provider tackle challenges such as sustainability language education, Arab Societies and ProjectExplorer and production firm and food security. “By acknowledging and appreciating a Culture, and Connected Communities. In Intuitive Content led to the creation of a diversity of identities, beliefs, and history student-centered learning environments, new educational TV series, Crash Test “QFI has been committed to supporting through connecting communities, we can it provides students with opportunities World, which premiered in Brooklyn, New educators and students by creating continue to challenge prevailing negative to learn Arabic; develops educational York, in 2019. The innovative show uses opportunities to engage with the Arab world, stereotypes and narratives.”