Qatar's National Day celebrations were marked with significant recognition of the Qatar Foundation's achievements over the past 30 years, serving as a beacon of hope and progress for the nation.
Since its establishment in 1995, the Qatar Foundation has played a pivotal role in supporting sustainable human, social, and economic development across the country. These celebrations highlighted how the foundation's vision has evolved over three decades, impacting thousands of individuals through its various educational initiatives.
Dr. Amal Al-Malki, Associate Professor at Hamad Bin Khalifa University and Dean of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences at Qatar Foundation, expressed pride and gratitude for being associated with such a transformative institution. "I am proud to be part of Qatar Foundation and appreciate its rich legacy," she stated, reflecting on her personal and professional experiences.
The celebration underscored the Qatar Foundation's integrated structure, which facilitates lifelong learning, fosters innovation, and empowers individuals to contribute positively to their communities. Academic and executive personalities described the organization as unique globally, emphasizing the quality educational opportunities available from kindergarten to postdoctoral studies.
Experts agree the foundation's diverse and integrated ecosystem allows for groundbreaking advancements. Dr. Saif Al-Hajri, who has been with Qatar Foundation since its inception, affirmed the institution's leading position among global educational hubs. "Our institution is now among the global leaders in higher education and innovative research," he said, highlighting its commitment to pushing educational boundaries.
Through its focus on five main pillars: progressive education, sustainability, artificial intelligence, precision healthcare, and social progression, Qatar Foundation seeks to address contemporary challenges with innovative solutions. This ethos has inspired countless alumni who have made remarkable strides locally and internationally, filling roles across various sectors, including museums, government, and the private sector.
Noor Hassan Kamal Salih, Senior Talent Development Manager at Qatar Airways and one of the first graduates from Georgetown University Qatar, shared her perspective on the institution's evolution. Reflecting on her beginnings as part of a small cohort, she noted, "The efforts over the past decades have created numerous opportunities for education and personal growth," adding how the Foundation has become synonymous with impressive educational outcomes.
Notably, the Qatar Foundation's combined focus on academic rigor and community engagement promotes healthy, productive lifestyles. Alongside the educational programs, the foundation is committed to fostering environments where knowledge can be shared and innovative thoughts can flourish.
The celebration also served as reflection on the foundation's adaptability during challenging times, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. The institution swiftly transitioned to remote learning, ensuring academic continuity and research production. This rapid evolution showcases Qatar Foundation's readiness to meet technological advancements, which are becoming increasingly necessary for 21st-century education.
Dr. Al-Malki remarked on the resilience of Qatar Foundation during challenging socio-political climates across the Arab world, noting, "For over 30 years, Qatar Foundation has shined as a lighthouse of knowledge amid adversity," showcasing the importance of sustaining education and innovation.
Dr. Al-Hajri reiterated the organization's commitment to nurturing the human capital of Qatar, emphasizing the continuous drive for improvement and achievement. The discussions during the celebrations encapsulated the foundation's core mission: investing heavily in education, research, and sustainable development to empower future generations.
The day concluded with renewed commitment and optimism for the future. Qatar Foundation envisions extensive educational developments, equipping students and researchers with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive as they face tomorrow's challenges.
Overall, the 30th anniversary of Qatar Foundation not only celebrated its past but also charted the course for its ambitious future, firmly rooting itself as the cornerstone of Qatar's educational and innovative aspirations.