How graduating QF school students learn beyond the classroom
THIS year, for the first time, Qatar Foundation is celebrating its graduating school students in one ceremony at Qatar National Convention Centre. The event, taking place on June 4, will highlight the academic journeys of 249 students from across seven schools – and the importance of taking learning beyond the classroom.
Hadwa Aboushama is an 18-year-old student at Qatar Academy Sidra (QAS). When she first joined Qatar Foundation’s (QF) PreUniversity Education (PUE) school, in grade 3, she struggled with some of her classes due to her limited proficiency in English. But, thanks to the additional support provided by the school, she was able to quickly catch up to her peers.
She has also been given the opportunity to gain skills outside of the classroom. Last year, she took part in the Street Child World Cup 2022, where 28 teams of young people – representing 25 countries – came together in Education City to participate in a football World Cup-style tournament and child-friendly congress sessions.
“The Street Child World Cup gave me the opportunity to learn about different cultures and perspectives. I was there to play football. But a lot of these children were not just there to play football. It made me very grateful for what I have – it was an eyeopening experience, which changed my outlook on life.”
And the effects have been longlasting, according to the QAS student, explaining how she has remained in contact with a number of participants, including girls from the Palestinian, Brazilian, and Egyptian teams.
For 18-year-old Qatar Academy Doha (QAD) graduate Saoud Al Marafi, football is a way of life, and is a tool that has helped to develop a variety of social and academic skills. Speaking about what he will miss when he leaves QAD, he said: “The competitive football games we used to play in front of the school is what I will miss the most. These had the greatest impact on my skills and helped me become a Qatar national football team player.
“I am also grateful to the school and my teachers as they believed in my abilities and gave me leadership roles, such as managing the school’s football team.
“Now, when I wake up in the morning, I feel like there is something missing from my life, which is going to school, seeing my classmates, and doing homework and projects. Despite my joy of graduating from school, I will miss what I had at QAD.”
After graduation, Al Marafi plans to travel overseas, along with his twin brother who is also graduating this year from QAD, to study mechanical engineering, as eventually, he wants to return to Qatar and become a contributing member of society.
Maryam Al Ibrahim, a 19-yearold student at Awsaj Academy who has cerebral palsy, has always been dedicated to pursuing her education and has been supported by her family and the school’s nurturing environment. Al Ibrahim strongly believes her disability should not limit her potential.
“My family instilled in me the belief that I have a lot to offer the world, and Awsaj Academy strengthened my confidence in that.
“So, I dedicate time to educating others, promoting inclusiveness, and challenging social stigmas surrounding disabilities through my social media account. I strive for a society that does not judge people based on appearances or ideas, and that everyone, whatever their challenges, deserves a place in this world.”
During COVID-19, Al Ibrahim began to write poetry, as it helped her find solace, and it served as a tool to express her feelings and experiences. She now hopes to compile a book of her poems. “Behind every poem is a story, and by sharing these poems, I share a part of myself with those around me.”
As she graduates from Awsaj Academy, Al Ibrahim embarks on a journey to find a university that embraces acceptance and inclusiveness.
From the early years of Grade 1 to the final months of Grade 12, Jassim Fahad Al-Thani – an 18-year-old student at Qatar Academy Al Wakra (QAW) – has been on an adventure of growth, learning, and self-discovery. And during this journey, Al-Thani has not only acquired knowledge but also created enduring friendships and refined valuable lifelong skills. His extracurricular activities also played a pivotal role in his life.
She wishes to continue her studies at one of QF’s partner universities. “I have been at the school since the first grade. It has had a tremendous impact on me as my intelligence, skills, and determination have made me a catalyst for change and improvement, and my presence reinforced the belief that people with disabilities have great capabilities if given the opportunity and support.”
Turki Majid Al-Kuwari, an 18-year-old student at Qatar Leadership Academy (QLA), reflects fondly on his time at school. Being a boarder at QLA has been a transformative experience for him, thanks to the supportive community at QF, which played a role in his journey.
“Graduating from school fills me with immense joy and gratitude. QLA has been my home away from home, providing me with a nurturing environment to explore my passionand unlock my potential.”
Beyond the classroom, Al-Kuwari eagerly participated in various extracurricular activities, which opened doors to new experiences and shaped his character. “My extracurricular pursuits have provided me with invaluable life lessons, fostering teamwork, leadership, and personal growth.”
Al-Kuwari’s passion for sports, arts, and community service led him on a journey of discovery, where he developed new skills and formed long-lasting connections. These experiences complemented his formal education, providing a well-rounded foundation that he believes has prepared him for the future.
From the early years of Grade 1 to the final months of Grade 12, Jassim Fahad Al-Thani – an 18-yearold student at Qatar Academy Al Wakra (QAW) – has been on an adventure of growth, learning, and self-discovery.
And during this journey, AlThani has not only acquired knowledge but also created enduring
friendships and refined valuable lifelong skills. His extracurricular activities also played a pivotal role in his life.
“I have learned the importance of stepping outside my comfort zone and embracing new experiences. I have also acquired a sense of responsibility and empathy. My goal is to eventually represent my country on an international stage as well as proudly within Qatar.”
He takes great pride in being part of a school that fosters a deep sense of belonging and provides an environment conducive to academic and personal growth. As he embarks on a new chapter in life, Al-Thani will carry with him the valuable lessons learned and cherished memories created at QF.
As Alanoud Matar Al Meraikhi, an 18-year-old student at Qatar Academy Al Khor (QAK), reflects on her academic journey, she recognizes the challenges she faced along the way, and how these helped her become more resilient.
Graduating brings immense joy to Al Meraikhi, serving as a testament to years of hard work and determination. The pride and support of her family have been instrumental in her success, and their unwavering belief in her fuels her determination to continue striving for success in all aspects of life.
“My experience at QAK has been nothing short of transformative. Engaging in extracurricular activities outside the classroom has provided me with a unique and fulfilling learning experience. These activities have allowed me to discover my true potential.”
With the confidence and skills acquired from QAK, Al Meraikhi eagerly looks forward to embracing new adventures and making a positive impact in the world. She has chosen to take her next step at Texas A&M University at Qatar (TAMUQ), a QF partner university.
“I am going to continue my studies at TAMUQ because it offers an exceptional
educational environment that combines academic excellence with unique opportunities. Being part of this community allows me to stay connected to my local roots while gaining a global perspective through a diverse student body and access to state-of-the-art resources. It is the perfect platform to pursue my aspirations and thrive both academically and personally.”
Dion Stephan Baldsing is an 18-year-old student at Qatar Academy for Science and Technology (QAST). He believes that the QF ecosystem has played a central role in his academic journey and ultimately altered the trajectory of his life.
He is delighted to have been accepted onto the computer science program at Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar, another QF partner university. His decision to complete his studies in Qatar has been strongly influenced by the Education City teachers – and the safety within the campus.
“The unity fostered by QF, the remarkable facilities, and the opportunity for collaboration has brought people from different parts of the world together. It serves as a launch pad for individuals to embark on their own paths and contribute to great things.”
Although Baldsing was born in Sri Lanka, he has considered Qatar his home since 2007 and expresses deep gratitude for the incredible hospitality of its people and the enriching cultural experiences it offers.
Baldsing acknowledges the unwavering support and immense pride his family has shown him throughout his academic journey. “I am so grateful for the support my family has shown me. Their hearts brim with pride as they witness me graduating, knowing that their unwavering support has guided me to this moment of accomplishment.”
As Baldsing prepares to embrace the next phase of his educational and personal growth, he carries with him the invaluable lessons
and cherished memories from QF, grateful for the transformative impact it has had on his life.
The PUE commencement ceremony will celebrate the achievements of students from QAD, QAK, QAS, QAST, QLA, QAW, and Awsaj Academy.
Qatar Foundation – Unlocking Human Potential
Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development (QF) is a non-profit organization that supports Qatar on its journey to becoming a diversified and sustainable economy. QF strives to serve the people of Qatar and beyond by providing specialized programs across its innovation-focused ecosystem of education, research and development, and community development.
QF was founded in 1995 by His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the Father Amir, and Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, who shared the vision to provide Qatar with quality education. Today, QF’s world-class education system offers lifelong learning opportunities to community members as young as six months through to the doctoral level, enabling graduates to thrive in a global environment and contribute to the nation’s development.
QF is also creating a multidisciplinary innovation hub in Qatar, where homegrown researchers are working to address local and global challenges. By promoting a culture of lifelong learning and fostering social engagement through programs that embody Qatari culture, QF is committed to empowering the local community and contributing to a better world for all.
For a complete list of QF’s initiatives and projects, please visit: www.qf.org.qa
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