Preserving and promoting Islamic values

Transcription

Preserving and promoting Islamic values
QATAR FOUNDATION’S FORTNIGHTLY NEWSPAPER ISSUE 140 THURSDAY 25 JUNE 2015
RAMADAN QF’s new mosque welcomes respected religious scholars as part of its program for the Holy Month
Preserving and promoting Islamic values
RESPECTED religious scholars are leading a series of religious prayers and lectures hosted by Qatar Foundation (QF)
at its new mosque in Education City, as
part of its month-long annual Ramadan
program.
The religious events throughout the
Holy Month reflect QF’s commitment
to the preservation and promotion of
Islamic values and heritage, in alignment with the recognition within Qatar
National Vision 2030 that Islam is the
cornerstone of society and that upholding religious beliefs is an integral part of
Qatar’s identity, supporting the progress
of the nation and the development of its
knowledge-based economy.
The mosque at QF, resting on five
structural pillars, and decorated with
Qur’anic verses, has the capacity to hold
1,800 people in its indoor prayer halls
and outdoor courtyard.
Situated within Qatar Faculty of Islamic Studies, a college of Hamad bin
Khalifa University, a member of QF, the
mosque, and the Ramadan activities that
have been and will be hosted there, are
an illustration of QF’s mission to foster
an engaged society that is appreciative of
its Islamic and Arabic heritage.
Well-known scholars and Holy Qur’an
readers from around the region, such as
Sheikh Mohamad Al Arefe, Dr Omar Abdulkafi, Dr Aaidh Al Qarni, and Dr Tariq
Al Hawas, will give the inspiring and educational religious lectures, through their
participation in a program – delivered in
Arabic with English interpretation – that
Taraweeh Prayer in progress at the Education City Mosque
began on 18 June 2015, the first day of
Ramadan.
A number of well-known Imams are
leading the daily Taraweeh prayers at QF,
with Sheikh Abdullah Basfar having been
responsible for delivering the prayers for
the first three nights of Ramadan, followed by Sheikh Mohammed Al Barrak
and Sheikh Mohammed Al Ghurbani.
On the 10th day of Ramadan, prayers
will be delivered by Sheikh Turki Al Mar-
ri, followed by Sheikh Fahad Al Kandari
on the 11th night. Sheikh Mohammed
Al Ghayathin will preside until the 13th
night, followed by Sheikh Mohammed
Al Luhaidan on the 14th night; Sheikh
Abdullah Al Nemah on the 15th night;
Sheikh Abdul Hadi Kanakeri on the 16th
night; and Sheikh Saad Al Gahmdi on
the 17th night.
From then until the 20th night, Sheikh
Abdullah Al Nemah will return to lead
the Taraweeh prayers, which will subsequently be delivered by Sheikh Mohammed Al Qahtani on the 21st and
22nd evenings, and Sheikh Mohammed
Al Barrak until the 27th night. Sheikh
Mohammed Al Qahtani will then lead
the prayers up until the final evening
of Ramadan, with Sheikh Abdulwali Al
Arakni and Sheikh Faleh Al Hajri then
taking the Qiyam prayers, and concluding the recitation of the Holy Qur’an.
Throughout Ramadan, a dedicated
crèche facility will be available at QF for
the young children of families who wish
to attend the religious activities. A regular
shuttle bus service will also be in operation to transport people to and from the
mosque from various locations within
Education City.
n For full details of religious prayers
and lectures at QF during Ramadan,
turn to page 15.
GRADUATES OF QF SCHOOLS PREPARE TO ENTER THE NEXT STAGE
OF UNLOCKING THEIR HUMAN POTENTIAL, see pages 8-9
2
News
“By participating
in the Middle East
Forum on Quality
and Safety in
Healthcare,
we are
demonstrating
how QF is playing
an instrumental
role in improving
the effectiveness
and quality of
healthcare in
Qatar, and the
wider region”
Raising the standards of
medical care
NEWS IN BRIEF
RAMADAN
HOTLINE
n Qatar Diabetes Association
(QDA), a member of Qatar
Foundation has launched
a Ramadan Hotline for the
Holy Month, to support and
advise diabetes patients who
are fasting. The phone will be
operated in collaboration with
doctors from Hamad Medical
Corporation and Primary
Health Care. The QDA Hotline
is 44547311 or 55274919
(8.30am-1.30pm) or 55981331
(8pm-11.30pm)
CONTACT US
QATAR FOUNDATION
Rima Ismail
Publications Manager
Email: [email protected]
Tel: +974 4454 0960
Ghada Saade
Head of Translation and Editorial
Email: [email protected]
Tel: +974 4454 0961
Ibrahim Helal
Editor
Email: [email protected]
Follow QF on twitter.com/QF
facebook.com/qatarfoundation
instagram.com/qatarfoundation
Snapchat username: QFSNAPS
© 2015. Qatar Foundation. All rights reserved. No part of
this publication may be reproduced without the written
permission of Qatar Foundation.
Write to us: [email protected]
THURSDAY 25 JUNE 2015
News
Follow QF on: twitter.com/QF , facebook.com/QatarFoundation
instagram.com/qatarfoundation , Snapchat username: QFSNAPS
Twenty one million consecutive
man-hours without loss-time incidents
QF’S PARTICIPATION AT
THE MIDDLE EAST FORUM
ON QUALITY AND SAFETY
IN HEALTHCARE
Qatar Biobank
WELFARE QF places a huge emphasis on maintaining health and safety
QATAR Foundation (QF) is contributing its expertise and resources to efforts to protect the human
rights of all workers in Qatar and
the wider Gulf region, as part of
the organization’s wider mission to
unlock human potential.
Around 20,000 construction
workers are currently employed on
QF’s various capital projects and it
remains committed to enshrining
the rights of these workers in a comprehensive and transparent manner
as part of its continued support of
the Qatar National Vision 2030.
QF places a huge emphasis on
maintaining health and safety on
its building sites.
In June 2015 one contractor,
MIDMAC, was acknowledged
for completing 21 million consecutive man-hours without losstime incidents (LTI) on QF’s new
Headquarters and Strategic Studies Center. In the construction industry, LTI is defined as an on-site
incident which results in a fatality,
permanent disability or time lost
from work.
Commenting on this tremendous achievement, Engineer Jassim Telefat, Group Executive Director, QF Capital Projects and
Facilities Management, said: “At
QF we believe that dignified living
and working conditions are absolutely essential elements to unlocking human potential. In order to
meet these values and principles,
Weill Cornell Medical
College in Qatar
World Innovation
Summit for Health
ergy Research Institute (QEERI), a
research and development entity under Qatar Foundation (QF), has discovered the chemical secrets of a new
material that could make the generation of solar energy far more economical, and finally unleash the potential
of this abundant renewable resource.
In turn, this exciting breakthrough
is ultimately expected to contribute
to QF’s mission of building Qatar’s
innovation and technology capacity,
ensuring the sustainable develop-
QA presents cancer fighters with huge check
n The senior school of Qatar Academy (QA), a member of Qatar
Foundation, gave the Qatar Cancer Society a huge donation to help it
in its fight against the illness. At a handover ceremony on 11 June 2015,
the school presented the society with a check, money the Grade 6 to 12
students had raised by selling pink flowers. The society will use the funds
toward increasing public awareness about cancer and cancer prevention.
Sidra Medical and
Research Center
The three-day conference was designed to improve healthcare in the region
Raising the standards of medical care
EXHBITION Three-day event held on improving the health of the country’s population
we are ensuring that all construction work on our projects is carried out to agreed international
health and safety standards. This
is a cause that we are fully committed to and one that is beginning to
show real benefits for the highlyvalued individuals employed on
our projects.”
CONSTRUCTION WORKERS ARE CURRENTLY EMPLOYED
ON QF’S VARIOUS CAPITAL PROJECTS
QEERI’s discovery will be of huge benefit to Qatar
ENERGY Qatar Environment and En-
Qatar Diabetes
Association
ment of energy that will benefit this
country, as well as the rest of the
world.
According to scientific experts, the
natural power of the sun supplies the
Gulf state with the annual equivalent
of 1.5 million barrels of oil per square
kilometre. However, much of this
goes to waste due to various factors
including the high costs involved.
Now QEERI may well have come up
with a solution that will lead to less
reliance on oil and gas in the future.
Explaining the importance of
conducting solar energy research
in Qatar, Dr Mohammed Khaleel,
Executive Director, QEERI, said:
“This country’s rapid population
and economic growth has led to everincreasing demands for electricity.
“Without taking steps to secure additional sustainable energy
sources, and reduce consumption,
the economy and the environment
will be adversely affected within
the next few years. For this reason
we are continuing to focus our efforts on harnessing the power of the
sun – Qatar’s most abundant natural
resource – as we develop new energy solutions for this country and
the region as part of our continued
support of the Qatar National Vision
2030.”
The research has been conducted
in tandem with AMBER, a research
centre funded by Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) and jointly hosted
by Ireland’s Trinity College Dublin
(TCD) and the Centre for Research
on Adaptive Nanostructures and Nanodevices (CRANN).
Engage with QF on Snapchat
n Qatar Foundation (QF) has joined the social media platform
Snapchat. The account (qfsnaps) is capturing the spirit of QF with
photos and short videos. It is sharing exclusive behind-the-scenes
action, live events, and inspirational stories from across Education
City’s directorates and centers. In its first week, the account covered
events and stories from many QF centers and entities.
QATAR Foundation (QF) showcased
its on-going dedication to furthering healthcare in Qatar, as well as
the wider region, at the Middle East
Forum on Quality and Safety in
Healthcare.
The three-day conference took
place at the Qatar National Convention Centre from 29-31 May 2015
and enabled QF to demonstrate
how – through its centers across education, and science and research – it
is dedicated to raising the standards
of medical care in Qatar.
It also showcased how it is playing
an integral role in driving health reform, policy, and research, which, in
turn, is in line with the human development pillar of the Qatar National
Vision 2030.
Engineer Saad Ebrahim Al Muhannadi, President, QF, commented
on QF’s participation in the forum
by saying: “Part of Qatar’s journey to
becoming a knowledge-based economy is the creation of a physically and
mentally healthy population.
“In order to support this goal,
Qatar Foundation has spearheaded
a number of ground-breaking initiatives, campaigns, and centers specially designed to promote healthcare development and reform.
“Indeed, by participating in the
Middle East Forum on Quality and
Safety in Healthcare, we are demonstrating how QF is playing an instrumental role in improving the effectiveness and quality of healthcare in
Qatar, and the wider region.”
A number of QF’s science and research centers which are designed to
give Qataris a better chance of avoiding serious illnesses, and to promote
better health for future generations,
were present at the event.
Qatar Biobank, Qatar Diabetes
Association (QDA), Sidra Medical
and Research Center, World Innovation Summit for Health (WISH),
and Weill Cornell Medical College
in Qatar (WCMC-Q) were all represented.
Qatar Biobank collects samples
and information on health and lifestyle for research on the causes of
diseases. Additionally, QDA aims to
raise the level of care and support for
diabetes sufferers and their families,
and Sidra – a ground-breaking hospital, research, and education institution – focuses on the health and
well-being of women and children.
Representatives from WISH highlighted how it brings together the
world’s leading experts and high-level decision-makers to promote active
learning, create and disseminate evidence-based content, and showcase
innovations to influence healthcare
policy globally.
QF’s work within the education
pillar was also highlighted during the
conference. WCMC-Q highlighted
its multi-faceted healthcare program,
which includes its five-year educational campaign, ‘Your Health First’,
designed to inspire healthy lifestyles.
The Forum, held for the third consecutive year, was jointly hosted by
Hamad Medical Corporation and
the Institute for Healthcare Improvement, a leading non-profit healthcare
quality improvement organization
based in the United States.
The conference brought together almost 3,000 individuals from
around the region in the healthcare
industry, including doctors, nurses,
support staff, hospital administrators, and medical students. It featured a series of addresses from
international experts and more than
30 interactive workshops designed to
highlight patient quality and safety
improvements.
HEC Paris puts spotlight on global warming
CLIMATE Qatar’s role in addressing
the global threat of climate change
was placed in focus at a conference
jointly organized by HEC Paris, a
partner university of Qatar Foundation (QF), and the French Embassy
in Qatar.
Ahead of the UN Climate Change
Conference (COP21) in Paris, to be
held in November-December 2015,
‘Towards COP21: Facing the Challenges of Climate Change’ empha-
sized how universities can develop
teaching, research, and knowledge
to mitigate global warming, and
outlined how research projects and
academic programs at HEC Paris
are contributing to this.
More than 100 participants, including representatives from the
Ministry of Environment, attended
the conference at HEC Paris’ Doha
premises on 7 June 2015, where
speakers included His Excellency
GU-Q hosts Executive Majlis
n Georgetown University in Qatar (GU-Q), a partner
university of Qatar Foundation, recently hosted the second
of its Executive Majlis series, featuring the keynote address
by Kyle Whitehill, CEO, Vodafone Qatar, who spoke on the
topic of “Localizing International Brands and Engaging with
Audiences in Qatar.”
Eric Chevallier, Ambassador of
France to Qatar.
They received an overview of
research into addressing environmental risks that is being conducted at QF, and in Qatar – including
CO2 abatement technologies, and
carbon capture and sequestration
projects – from Dr Philippe Freysinnet, Director, Energy and Environment, Qatar National Research
Fund, a research and development
entity under QF.
“HEC Paris strongly believes it is
its duty and responsibility to assist
in the facilitation of intellectual and
scholarly discussions that will positively and significantly contribute to
the objective of COP21,” said Professor Laoucine Kerbache, Dean
and CEO, HEC Paris in Qatar.
COP21, the annual Conference
of Parties, is also known as the Paris
Climate Conference.
3
WISE TO
COLLABORATE
WITH CHINESE
EDUCATION
AND RESEARCH
SECTORS
PARTNERSHIP
The
World
Innovation Summit for Education
(WISE), an initiative of Qatar
Foundation (QF), has entered into
a number of new partnerships
and initiatives with key Chinese
educational institutions following
substantive discussions with a range
of senior Chinese educators and
research officials in Beijing.
In addition to expanding Chinese
representation at the WISE 2015
Summit, WISE will engage with
Chinese institutions on collaborative
research efforts in entrepreneurship
education, 21st century skills and
other areas of common interest.
In engaging with some of China’s
most distinguished institutions
and education innovators, WISE
is supporting QF’s mission in new
approaches to education, promoting
innovation and building the future of
education through both the summit
and a range of on-going programs.
During the recent visit to Beijing,
Stavros Yiannouka, CEO, WISE,
gave the opening keynote address
to the Learners’ Innovation Forum
on Education, which was attended
by more than 1,000 policymakers,
educators and social entrepreneurs
from across China.Yiannouka also
hosted a round table discussion
with Chinese education innovators,
and gave several interviews with key
Chinese media.
WISE also announced a major
partnership with China Renmin
University Press, one of the
oldest and most distinguished
publishers of academic works, for
the translation and publication of
three WISE books into Chinese.
Yiannouka said: “We are delighted
that the work of so many education
innovators and entrepreneurs
described and celebrated in the
three WISE books – and indeed the
work of Qatar Foundation – will be
directly available to a potentially vast
Chinese readership.
“The collaboration between
WISE,
Bloomsbury
Qatar
Foundation Publishing and Renmin
University Press could dramatically
expand the impact of QF’s education
agenda.”
Safer fasting for diabetes patients
n Qatar Diabetes Association (QDA), a member of Qatar
Foundation, collaborated in organizing a workshop designed
to help ensure management of the condition and safer fasting
during Ramadan. Together with Action on Diabetes, QDA
provided advice to a broad group of patients with diabetes
during a session at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Doha.
Hot Topic: The Right To Reply
In our survey, a number of QF
community members stated that they
believe QF allows them to strike a healthy
balance between Ramadan and work
commitments, and encourages them to
maintain the sanctity of the Holy Month.
Seventy one percent said QF provided
an exceptional atmosphere, which allows
the community to maintain the sacredness
of Ramadan, while 29 percent stated
that more events and activities could be
organized to showcase the meaning of this
very special time.
The embracing of the Holy Month
is supported by the balance between
work and Ramadan commitments that
QF facilitates. Mohammed Al Suwaidi,
Executive Director, QF Opertaions,
explained: “Ramadan is a holy month of
spiritual fasting, and an opportunity for
all of us to devote more time to reflecting,
understanding, and experiencing Islam.
At QF, we recognize the month of
Ramadan as special.
“Our working hours are significantly
reduced during this Holy Month in
order to allow time for spiritual activities.
The normal daily work schedule for all
employees is reduced to five hours per
day, as per the HR Policy, and any work
done by an employee in excess of the five
hours is treated as per overtime policy.
“The working environment is very
conducive to spiritual activities. There is
a well maintained, quiet, and calm prayer
area within the reach of every employee,
and the Education City Masjid is also
within easy reach for the QF Community.
“QF’s HR Directorate sends special
communications, via the Maktabi
newsletter, every year to ensure a wide
understanding of Ramadan among
the QF community, and the rules
and regulations for QF’s non-Muslim
workforce. This is an opportunity for
the whole of the QF community to
learn more about the sacred month of
Ramadan.”
The QF Communication Directorate
aims to spread awareness on the
importance of the Holy Month through
its various communication channels.
Khalifa Al Kubaisi, Head of Press Office,
Communication Directorate, said: “The
sense of spirituality, generosity, and
sharing engendered by Ramadan, and the
special time that it represents, is reflected
in the efforts of QF’s Communication
Directorate to ensure all members of the
QF Community can embrace the essence
and values of the Holy Month.
“Across its communication channels –
including its publications, social media
platforms, Maktabi internal newsletter,
and QF Radio – the Communication
Directorate fosters awareness and
understanding of the true meaning of
Ramadan, through the publication and
dissemination of insightful comment and
discourse from Islamic scholars.
“These channels also address the
THURSDAY 25 JUNE 2015
@qf.org.qa
Write to us: qft
E 2015
THURSDAY 11 JUN
Hot Topic
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municipalities, with the residents of Qatar
Foundation for Elderly People Care,
and of Rumailah Hospital’s Residential
Care Compound. It will also donate
food packages to more than 200 needy
families. The campaign is expected to
directly benefit around 1,000 individuals
and eight institutions across Qatar.
Mohamed Al Naama, Acting Director,
ROTA, stated that acknowledgement
of good fortune and blessings provides
the drive and enthusiasm to want to give
back to community members in need.
He said: “I am thankful to God for giving
us the will and strength to give back to
our beloved country, Qatar. For the ninth
consecutive year, ROTA’s dedicated and
growing base of volunteers will give hope
to those in need, and give back to the
community that has given them so much.”
and families.
Reem Al Mosallam, Head, Event
Management, QF Communication
Directorate, said: “Community
development is one of the core missions of
QF, and, keeping this in mind, we organize
the QF Garangao event during Ramadan.
Children and families, both Qatari and
expatriate, come together to learn about
the practices and festivities that are woven
into the traditions of Qatar and how they
remain so important to modern Qatari
society.”
The commitment of QF Community
Services to organizing events that every
member of the QF community, and
the wider community, can participate
in was expressed by Rodha Al Saadi,
Community Service Supervisor, QF
Support Services, who said: “During
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2014 attracted
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and Recreation Center, Awsaj Recreation
‘
Perspective
Follow QF on: twitter.com/QF , facebook.com/QatarFoundation
instagram.com/qatarfoundation , Snapchat username: QFSNAPS
Have your say
‘
IN THE 11 JUNE 2015 EDITION OF THE
QF TELEGRAPH, WE ASKED MEMBERS
OF THE QATAR FOUNDATION (QF)
COMMUNITY IF QF PROMOTED A SPIRIT
OF SHARING AND COMMUNITY BUILDING
DURING RAMADAN, AND IF THEY
WERE ENCOURAGED TO EMBRACE THE
SPIRITUALITY OF THE HOLY MONTH.
Write to us: [email protected]
‘
4
Center, and Education City Clubhouse.”
The Holy Month is also marked
through events held at AL SHAQAB,
a member of QF, intended to educate
children on the various aspects of
horsemanship, an intrinsic part of
Qatari culture and heritage. Mohammed
Al Suwaidi, Assistant Manager, AL
SHAQAB Equine Education, told QF
Telegraph: “AL SHAQAB is committed
to preserving the tremendous heritage of
the nation, and to sharing this legacy with
young members of the community.
“One of the key activities we organize
for Ramadan is the AL SHAQAB
Ramadan Program. The camp aims
to give participants, aged 6-12 years, a
sound introduction to all aspects of horses
and horsemanship. It also proves to be a
great bonding exercise for the students
“During the Holy Month of
Ramadan, the campaign shares health
tips through its social media channels
and communication channels such
as QF Telegraph, QF Radio, and
newspapers and TV channels within
Qatar. The campaign offers useful
advice to stay healthy and avoid feeling
exhausted or dehydrated during the
Holy Month of Ramadan. In addition,
scientists at WCMC-Q have conducted
unique research into the body’s
responses to extended fasting,
published in the Journal of Translational
Medicine.”
Ramadan is indeed a special time for
the QF community, where they cherish
the opportunity to bond, and learn
about the traditions and heritage of the
country.
in Qatar must stretch beyond
the environmental credentials of
buildings, by ensuring they are
“rooted in the past while looking
to the future”, according to a
leading architect who outlined his
views on the nation’s architectural
transformation during a Qatar
Foundation (QF) event.
Tim Makower, Principal and
Founder, Makower Architects – an
international architecture and urban
design practice – was among the
speakers to provide their insights
into how Qatar’s culture, traditions,
and values can be preserved amid
major development projects at an
event entitled “Can Sustainable
Experimental Architecture with
Respect for Cultural Heritage Exist’,
hosted by Qatar Green Building
Council (QGBC), a member of QF.
Attended by experts in
architecture and sustainability,
the event – held at Hamad bin
Khalifa University Student Center
on 25 May 2015 – addressed how
consistency and cohesion can be
woven into the rapidly changing
fabric of Doha’s urban landscape.
Makower Architects’ portfolio
includes numerous projects in
the city, including a proposed
regenerative masterplan for Al
Ghanem and Jadeeda, and Makower
emphasized the need for “living
heritage”, binding the past and the
future together in the present so
development projects align with their
context and have enduring value.
“The need for efficiency and
reductions in our carbon footprint
are very important design aspects
of sustainability, but I am also very
much interested in social and cultural
aspects – how to create architecture
and urbanism that lasts, that feels
like home, that creates a sense of
belonging in people; and that can be
part of a place’s long-term future,” he
told QF Telegraph.
“Sustainable development is
not simply about energy and the
environment. It is about providing
value that can be passed on from
generation to generation. Heritage
is an inheritance, and that is why we
must look at whether a project will
be a living entity, something capable
of evolving, and of coming to belong
in a city.
“There are many exciting, even
surprising, ways of working with
heritage that can ensure the past
continues living into the future.
Without looking at the past and the
future at the same time, our heritage
has its limits.”
Having based his talk at QF on “a
sustainable attitude to city-making”
Tim Makower provided an insight into how Qatar’s traditions can be preserved
“Sustainable development is about
providing value that can be passed
on from generation to generation.
Heritage is an inheritance, and that is
why we must look at whether a project
will be a living entity, something
capable of evolving, and of coming to
belong in a city”
grounded in an appreciation of
cultural heritage, Makower believes
Doha’s older architecture is among
Qatar’s greatest cultural assets, and
can be preserved and renewed in a
way that allows it to interpret history
while blending with modernity.
He considers this a new
“vernacular” in architecture,
placing value on existing buildings
and ensuring they have a role into
the future. “If we inherit older
architecture, we should not be
thinking that we need to discard it
and replace it with something new,”
he explained.
“We need to be embracing and
preserving it not only because it is
old, but because it is precious; to look
at it profoundly, optimistically, and in
terms of the future as well as the past.
We must work with this architecture;
study it carefully; and renew it in a
bold, confident way.
“Architecture and urbanism
are organic, evolving, and can be
imperfect. Sustainable architecture is
about how we can respect, and learn
from, what we already have.”
To achieve this requires vision
and forward thinking, something
Makower sees embedded in QGBC,
and QF. “I have great admiration
for the work of QGBC, and I hope
it will expand the scope of its work
and bring even greater benefit
to Qatar in terms of sustainable
development,” he said.
“Strong leadership is required to
achieve sustainable architecture with
respect for cultural heritage, and this
is where I believe QGBC is already
important and can become more
important still.
“QF is a leader in encouraging and
inspiring people to think long-term,
and, where sustainable architecture is
concerned, any tendency to focus on
short-term gains must come second
to consideration of a long-term
strategy and the lasting benefits this
will bring.”
5
OPINION
Yasser Ibrahim
A whisper in the ear
of a fasting person
RAMADAN is among the most
preferred months of Allah, the
Merciful, the Compassionate that are
distinguished by certain virtues and
characteristics. This Holy Month is a
time of worship and self-discipline.
Ramadan awakens us from
slumber, helping each one ponder
over his deeds and examine them
by becoming his own critic. By
doing so, he can become a moderate
person, correct himself and come
closer to Allah, the Merciful, the
Compassionate.
Ramadan is the month where
the value of good deeds are
multiplied by Allah, the Merciful, the
Compassionate, making it an ideal
opportunity to erase our sins.
Ramadan is the greatest
opportunity a Muslim can have to
earn and multiply his good deeds,
cleanse his soul of ailments to enter
His kingdom pure at heart.
Therefore, the Islamic Studies
Department at Qatar Academy Doha
(QA Doha), developed a program
for students to enable them to take
advantage of this Holy Month.
Before Ramadan, we held an
intensive course about the guidelines
and etiquette of this Holy Month
explaining how it should be spent. We
designed large-size boards outlining
the etiquette of eating, drinking and
other manners related to fasting, as
well as another board with Hadiths
about the virtues of Ramadan.
We suggested that students
arrange Iftars: for their families
and for specific audiences, such as
young people and children. We urged
students to benefit from these social
gatherings before and after Iftars.
We asked young people to
volunteer by distributing Iftar meals
to people at traffic signals and in
workplaces. We also organized a
charity campaign where students
collected items from relatives and
neighbors to distribute them to poor
families and other charities.
Ramadan is the month of
the Holy Qur’an. Students are
encouraged to read the Holy
Qur’an through a number of
initiatives such as creating reading
groups. Competitions were
organized where we asked students
to memorize certain Surahs, or
verses that imply particular virtues,
or ask questions related to certain
parts of the Holy Qur’an.
We also educated students on
how to give Zakat and its guiding
WHAT DO YOU THINK?
Email [email protected]
rules, especially when it comes to
our modern-day financial matters.
We prepared a Ramadan calendar
that includes prayer times during
the month; the contact numbers
of charities; a follow-up schedule
for reading Quran; a schedule to
organize the time during the day;
and another schedule for family
visitations so that students can
create a balance between the time
of worship and their daily life
commitments.
“This Holy Month is
a time of hard work,
worship and selfdiscipline”
We should know that fasting is
a school and a good practice that
teaches us to have faith in the unseen;
surrender to God’s will; tolerate the
hardships, troubles and desires; share
the feelings and suffering of the poor
and needy to win Allah, the Merciful,
the Compassionate’s blessings and
become winners in the afterlife. This
is why our religion urges us to fast
and pray at various times of the year
because fasting can purify our hearts
and cleanse our souls.
O Allah, the Merciful, the
Compassionate accept our fasting,
prayers, Zakat and the rest of
our good deeds, and make them
devoted to You. Make Ramadan a
witness for us and not against us.
Return it to us many times over,
and make us among those who
observe fast out of sincere faith
hoping to attain Your rewards.
O Allah, the Merciful, the
Compassionate give our soul piety
for You are the Master of our souls.
Raise the standing of Islam and the
Muslims, and degrade the standing
of disbelief and disbelievers. Grant
victory to Your believers by Your
mercy, oh the Most Merciful.
COLUMNIST
Yasser Ibrahim,
Head of Islamic Studies Department,
Qatar Academy Doha
6
QF 20th Anniversary
Write to us: [email protected]
THURSDAY 25 JUNE 2015
WHERE HIGHER EDUCATION HAS THE
ABILITY TO MAKE A REAL DIFFERENCE
HBKU is ensuring academic enrichment, both within and beyond the classroom
INNOVATIVE, diverse, multicultural, and
committed to empowering academic
accomplishment and personal development –
the educational landscape of Qatar
Foundation (QF) represents the synthesis of
these values.
The cycle of education and research that
produces graduates with the depth and breadth
of knowledge, and the capacity for creativity
and endeavor, that enables them to stand
comparison with any in the world, invigorates
the vision and mission of QF, 20 years on
from the commencement of its journey to
unlock human potential and support the
diversification and transformation of Qatar’s
economy.
Inquiry and discovery are the quintessence
of QF’s pillar of education, grounding
aspirants in cognizance and perception, while
emboldening and inspiring them to high
achievement.
These qualities are integral to the
teaching and learning provided by Hamad
bin Khalifa University (HBKU), a member
of QF that, as a homegrown institution,
accentuates its research on Qatar’s national
priorities, and its graduate degree programs
on serving the needs of the nation.
It is propelled by its belief in higher
education’s ability to make a real difference,
locally, regionally, and globally.
Ensuring academic enrichment within,
and beyond, the classroom, HBKU
cultivates human capacity, infuses knowledge
with creativity, blends Arab culture with
international perspectives, and integrates
its curriculum with society through
interdisciplinary research that stimulates
innovative thinking and application.
With an array of Masters and Doctoral
programs currently offered through its
College of Science and Engineering, the
HBKU Law School, Qatar Faculty of
Islamic Studies (QFIS), and its Translation
and Interpreting Institute (TII), as well as
providing an Executive Master in Energy
and Resources, and through its affiliations
and synergy with QF’s world-class partner
universities, HBKU encourages students
to recognize no borders to their potential,
and shapes them to write the chapters of the
future.
“We are honored that, as a member of QF,
we have been given the opportunity to help
a growing number of exceptional graduates
continue to unlock their potential within the
thriving and diverse environment of academic
excellence that has become synonymous with
QF’s institutions,” said Dr Ahmad Hasnah,
President, HBKU.
“Through their dedication, our graduates
consistently demonstrate that they share our
commitment to expanding the intellectual
capacity of Qatar and the region.”
Ali Al Yaeeshi, a 2015 graduate of HBKU’s
Executive Master in Energy and Resources, is
among those who have already demonstrated
this commitment; one he hopes many
more Qataris will now devote themselves to
displaying, to ensure Qatar has the expertise
required to address its Energy Grand Challenge
and achieve economic diversification.
“My studies have allowed me to see how
we can project the future of energy, and
our natural resources, providing us with
a comprehensive picture of how we can
contribute to the transformation of Qatar’s
economy,” he explained.
“Studying at HBKU has enabled me to
expand my knowledge in so many areas,
scholars with an academic interest in Islam.
These encompass science, ethics, and
religion; public policy; Islamic finance; urban
design and architecture; comparative religions;
and economic, social, and political aspects of
life in Muslim society today.
For Dr Aisha Al Mannai, Dean, QFIS,
it is a place where “the richness of ideas,
thoughts, and values that Islam contributes
to the requirements of modern plurality” are
promoted. “Islamic Studies play a positive
role in reviving common values for mankind,
uniting humanity in the interests of justice
The mission of HBKU
is to advance knowledge through basic, applied, and translational research;
foster new ideas and innovative thinking; develop solutions to complex
problems; and allow students to experience a research education. HBKU
envelopes interdisciplinary colleges, institutes, and centers, where graduate
programs and research are focused on addressing Qatar’s national priorities.
College of Science
and Engineering
• Focuses on sustainable
development, life sciences,
and information and
communication technologies
• Nurtures innovators to serve
societal needs
TII comprises three elements
• Postgraduate Studies and Research Center – offering
Master of Arts in Translation Studies, and Master of Arts
in Audiovisual Translation
• Language Center – offering expert language training in
Arabic, English, French, Spanish, and Chinese
• Professional Services – offering a portfolio of written
translation interpreting, audiovisual translation, and
subtitling, for national, regional, and international clients
The Executive Master in
Energy and Resources
• Provides innovative education in a field that
is a national priority for Qatar
• Integrates the disciplines of geopolitics,
public policy, technology, finance,
management, and strategy
• Brings together experts from multiple
disciplines
• Is offered in partnership with Georgetown
University, Texas A&M University, and HEC
Paris
and gain the confidence to pursue and
achieve my goals. As Qataris, we have been
provided with so many opportunities in
education, through QF.
“I would encourage every Qatari to consider
studying this program, because extending
knowledge and expertise in this field is so
important for the future of our nation.”
Within QFIS – established to emphasize and
promote the richness and diversity of Islamic
heritage, and be a point of convergence for
thought and dialogue that steers research and
debate into contemporary concerns and issues
of heritage affecting Islam and Muslims –
programs of higher study are available to
The Law School
• Will deliver graduate legal education
through the Juris Doctor postgraduate
degree program
• Will build intellectual capacity within
sectors such as energy, healthcare,
infrastructure development, finance and
global investment, cultural endowment,
and media
• Will develop the analytical and critical
thinking skills of thought leaders and
policymakers
and equality,” she said. “At QFIS, our
students interact with each other, facilitating
and fostering cultural exchange and a wider
understanding of the values and norms that
come under the umbrella of Islam.”
QFIS’ academic mission is centered around
both perception and practice, enabling its
graduates to apply what they have learned to
contemporary challenges. Having graduated in
2015 as a Master of Science in Islamic Finance,
Nasser Al Sharshani, Assistant Relationship
Manager, Commercial Bank, believes he has
benefited on a scientific and professional level,
honing the ability to compare Islamic and nonIslamic financial products.
“There is a big gap between theory and
practice in Islamic finance, and my interaction
with some of the most important professors
of Islamic finance has assisted me greatly in
grasping the subject,” he said.
“I’m proud to be Qatari, and to represent
my country in international circles. I am
also proud of my association with QF’s
higher education program, as it is wellknown internationally and considered to be
an example to follow. As one of the Qataris
working in banking, I have social and career
obligations, and I think that finishing my
Master’s degree despite these obligations was
an achievement – and proof of the Qatari
perseverance to learn.”
Research, scholarly excellence, and cultural
exchange conjoin at TII, established with
the remit of building translation capacity in
Qatar and the region. In addition to its suite
of graduate programs, TII advances research
in translation studies, promotes use and
appreciation of the Arabic language, offers
multicultural insights, and, according to Dr
Amal Al Malki, Executive Director, TII, is
a hub of language and culture that balances
the traditional and the modern, the local and
the global, and produces “people who help to
connect the world”.
“Translation and interpreting bring
people together, transferring language from
one linguistic community to another, and
recording human experiences that others
can learn about, and from,” she outlined.
“By producing a pool of graduates who are
academically sound and have the skills to
function in any profession, TII is contributing
to the development of Qatar’s knowledgebased economy.
“We also believe TII has a pivotal role to
play in promoting the beauty of the Arabic
language. We want younger generations to
embrace the Arabic language, and its beauty
and prestige, not simply because it may
benefit them in their profession, but because
of their love for it.”
The position of TII at the intersection of
research, academia, and professional service,
and the way in which it broadens horizons,
is illustrated by Najla Al Malki, a member
of its Class of 2015, and a Master of Arts
in Translation Studies. She explains that
research was once a daunting prospect; but
now it is something she relishes.
“As I found myself delving deeper into
research at TII, I became more engaged
with it,” she said. “Studying at TII has
benefited and enriched me so much, both
in terms of research, and through practical
tuition in translation.
“I have started to look at the world in a
different, more analytical, way; I have become
more open-minded; and had the opportunity
to experience new cultures and embrace new
ideas. I will always be grateful to HBKU, and
I will always be proud that I graduated in the
year that marks the 20th anniversary of QF.”
From the Top
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7
Addressing major
issues relating to
Islamic principles
Dr Aisha Al Mannai, Dean, Qatar Faculty
of Islamic Studies (QFIS), a college of
Hamad bin Khalifa University (HBKU),
a member of Qatar Foundation (QF),
speaks about balancing tradition
and innovation to enrich global
understanding of Islamic heritage,
culture, and society
THE vision of QFIS is to become a locus of thought and dialogue that leads
research and debate in all that relates
to Islam and to Muslims, whether that
be contemporary concerns or issues of
heritage; and to produce scholars who
are strongly grounded in Islamic faith,
practice, and civilization.
Within QFIS, we aim to reflect the
needs of the present by producing a
rich and dynamic understanding of
our Islamic heritage, and by emphasizing the openness that allows us to
embrace diversity. The challenge that
we face is to provide new and innovative graduate programs that reflect
contemporary sciences, and that bond
with Islamic principles and values.
Thought and cross-cultural dialogue
are very important factors in ensuring
that societies succeed in developing
together. QFIS promotes the richness
of ideas, thoughts, and values that Islam contributes to the requirements of
modern plurality.
Our teaching philosophy addresses
historical and contemporary meanings of Islamic thought and dialogue
and directs them toward practical and
vital sciences, such as finance, public
policy, and urbanism.This requires the
critical reflections of Muslim scholars,
who cover new scientific ideas, and add
layers to the intellectual contribution
that Islam makes to humanity.
Islamic Studies play a positive role in
reviving common values for mankind,
uniting humanity in the interests of justice and equality. At QFIS, our students
interact with each other, facilitating and
fostering cultural exchange and a wider
understanding of the values and norms
that come under the umbrella of Islam.
They learn to utilize universal methodologies in addressing issues such as
social inequality, gender inequality, and
human rights, through QFIS’ academic program.
Where the Islamic teachings of QFIS
come to the fore is in the fact that our
graduate programs reflect the boundless importance of the moderation of
the social structure, and are designed
to establish the contemporaneity and
well-being of changing Islamic societies.
Our academic focus challenges destructive thoughts that have the potential to destroy the common values and
ethics that exist between members of
Muslim society.
Our programs increase the understanding and skill of our students,
whose education at QFIS provides
them with wider Islamic knowledge.
This helps them to develop problemsolving and decision-making techniques with adherence to Shari’a
Law. The ultimate goal of QFIS is to
produce responsible decision-makers
within various governmental institutions – including ministries and local
authorities – and the private sector,
who may serve the public according to
the essence and ethics of Islam.
The greatest achievement of QFIS is
the large number of students it has attracted since its establishment in 2007.
QFIS has the largest number of graduate students within Education City,
THE RESEARCH CENTERS OF QFIS
yy Are integrated with QFIS’ academic program
yy Allow students to interact with international scholars,
business leaders, and public figures, through public
lectures, conferences, symposia, and workshops
yy Promote research that addresses issues concerning
modern Muslim society
yy Ensure a diverse and thriving research environment
QFIS IS COMMITTED TO
Continuous
growth and
development, to
support higher
education in Qatar
and Islamic society
Aligning tradition
and innovation,
to create a culture
of creativity and
enlightenment
Originality, plurality,
and contemporaneity
with more than 50 percent of these being Qatari students.
Our main challenge is to sustain our
philosophies amid competition from
other institutions, but this simply inspires us to enhance our efforts to
overcome this challenge.
The research conducted at QFIS
covers a range of disciplines and fields,
all of which are generally focused on
the development of Muslim societies and the lives of the members of
these societies. Certain aspects of our
research examine anthropological
theories, while another area of focus is
concerned with issues of policy development, and the reshaping of our built
environments.
In formulating the scope of QFIS’
research, we seek to find common
areas, as well as gaps in the fields we
study, in order to initiate multidisciplinary studies that also address Qatar’s
national priorities.
QFIS represents one of the many
institutions that are contributing to
the comprehensive cycle of education
offered by QF, providing high quality
teaching and learning that serves the
educational needs of both Qatar, and
of Islamic society in general.
As a college of HBKU, QFIS has
worked since its establishment to fulfill
the vision and mission of QF, by providing the best education possible to
our students and by helping them to
realize their human potential; by encouraging them to have respect for,
and a commitment to, Islamic traditions; and to embrace innovation. In
this way, QFIS is contributing to maintaining, and balancing, Islamic values
and culture within Qatar.
Looking at our vision and mission
from a wider and greater perspective,
QFIS also contributes to social development, the second pillar of Qatar
National Vision 2030, by addressing
the concept of knowledge-based economies, and enriching our nation with
new, and empowered, skills of communication.
Aside from the study of Islam and
jurisprudence, QFIS offers a variety
of other science courses, reflecting the
fact that our current student and faculty body comprises more than 50 nationalities.
As we look to the future, QFIS is
therefore seeking to establish a PhD
degree-granting unit, for outstanding
students of high academic standing
who are planning to study interdisciplinary research.
This program is intended to focus
on dissertation topics that require
supervision from two or more of the
embedded programs of QFIS and our
fellow colleges of HBKU. Each of these
research studies will be designed by a
student, with a significant amount of
input and continuous guidance from
the student’s supervisory committee.
The PhD programs are currently in
the early phase of planning, and they
will initially focus on the disciplines of
Islamic Finance and Public Policy, with
the intention being that they will be followed by similar programs concerning
other disciplines taught at QFIS.
In this way, QFIS is demonstrating its commitment to continuous
growth and development, in support of addressing the higher educational needs of Qatar and wider
Islamic societies; to the alignment
of tradition and innovation, in order
to create a culture of creativity and
enlightenment; and to the philosophies that are embedded in the work
of QFIS and that drive its mission
forward: originality, plurality, and
contemporaneity.
8
Graduation
Write to us: [email protected]
THURSDAY 25 JUNE 2015
Graduation
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9
PRODUCING THE HIGHEST STANDARDS
OF EDUCATIONAL EXCELLENCE IN QF
ABP GRADUATES WELL PREPARED
FOR UNIVERSITY LIFE
QLA CLASS OF 2015 URGED TO
REACH FOR THE TOP
Graduates of the Academic Bridge Program (ABP), a member of Qatar Foundation
(QF), have completed the passage from high school to higher education as they
prepare to enter leading English language universities.
As a post-secondary preparatory program, ABP equips high-caliber secondary
school graduates – academically and professionally – for university success,
with its Class of 2015 being honored at a graduation ceremony on 10 May 2015.
Since its inception in 2010, ABP has graduated in excess of 2,500 students, and more
than 40 percent of this year’s graduating class has been accepted to at least one QF
partner university. About 90 percent of ABP graduates have been admitted to English
language universities in Qatar, the UK, and elsewhere.
“You have arrived on the other side, safe and sound. There have been obstacles, but
that is a part of life, and learning to face those obstacles, and overcoming them, is
probably one of the greatest lessons you have learned at ABP.”
The keynote speech was delivered by Dr Bothina AlMulla, who graduated from ABP in
2004, before becoming a Doctor of Medicine at Weill Cornell Medical College in Qatar,
a partner university of QF, and earning a Master in Health Management in Strategic
Management and Leadership at City University of London.
She outlined seven lessons for the Class of 2015, advising them to choose to do what
they love; explore; be their own teachers and motivators; maintain the friendships
they forged at ABP; show the determination to enhance their qualities and develop
new ones; define their success; and learn from life’s challenges. Telling them that
graduation marks “a new step in your life”, she said: “The doors are today open wider
than ever before.”
With their knowledge enhanced, leadership skills honed, and a sense of duty instilled
within them, graduates from Qatar Leadership Academy (QLA), a member of Qatar
Foundation (QF), have embarked on the next stage of a journey of contribution to their
nation.
His Excellency Major General Ghanim Bin Shaheen Al Ghanim, Chief of Staff, Qatar
Armed Forces, was among the guests as QLA celebrated the graduation of its eighth
cohort of cadets, and their years of intellectual and character development, at a
ceremony held on 27 May 2015.
By promoting academic excellence, integrity, teamwork, respect, and ambition,
QLA aims to provide young people with the qualities necessary to be at the forefront
of ensuring a prosperous future for Qatar. “This group of cadets has beautifully
represented the vision of the school, and its success, by comprising mature,
independent personalities, and critical, innovative thinkers,” Brigadier Ali Al Kuwari,
Director, QLA, told the ceremony.
“QLA has built national and regional leadership standards that help cadets
build a strong personality, with a high level of responsibility to their citizenship,
and intrinsic belonging to their nation.”
Describing the graduates as Qatar’s “future decision-makers and honor-builders”,
Brigadier Al Kuwari told them: “It is your opportunity to move forward with full selfconfidence – the key to success in the next stage is to continue to reach for the top.”
Mohammed Al Romaihi, the QLA Class of 2015 Valedictorian, said QLA represented “a
solid track of success and excellence”, adding: “Now we are moving onto a new stage
in our knowledge and our work.
“Our home, Qatar, deserves the best, so we have to continue the process of giving back
to Qatar.”
THE 20-YEAR commitment of Qatar Foundation (QF) to providing unequalled education – preparing and inspiring young people
to play central roles in the future development of Qatar, and realize
their human potential – has been personified through students who
are making the transition to the next phase of their academic journey.
WADAD ALJASSIM, CLASS
OF 2015 GRADUATE,
ACADEMIC BRIDGE
PROGRAM
“Something that is significant
and distinct about ABP, and the
courses it offers at Education City, is that it prepares
you for a lifelong career of success. My time here
helped me realize where my true talent lies, and
what I enjoy most. ABP is a transitional place, but
I would not have crossed the bridge with any other
group of people.”
For hundreds of graduates who have had the opportunity to enhance their knowledge, hone their skills, and develop their character
within the schools that come under QF’s Pre-University Education, a
new world is now opening up: the world of higher education, which,
for many, will see them progress their studies at the prestigious part-
NAWAL AQEEL, CLASS OF
2015 GRADUATE, ACADEMIC
BRIDGE PROGRAM
“When I look back on my
journey at ABP, I do not
remember myself being in a
program that is merely about adapting myself
to working under the pressure of university life,
a demanding grading system, or numerous
assignments. I remember this journey as one
that has turned me into a new person, with a
sense of responsibility and self-confidence.”
95
ner universities of QF.
Their recent graduation from QF schools allowed celebration of
their academic and personal achievements, accomplished through
their immersion in, and engagement with, the culture of research,
innovation, and creativity that is the hallmark of QF’s unique and
STUDENTS GRADUATED IN
QA DOHA’S CLASS OF 2015
HISTORIC YEAR FOR
QA DOHA
The enduring excellence of Qatar Academy Doha (QA Doha) – the seed from which
Qatar Foundation’s (QF’s) pillar of education has grown – was illustrated by its Class
of 2015, who achieved the highest grades in the history of the school.
At a ceremony on 3 June 2015, students who have been inspired and challenged to
become thought leaders, critical thinkers, and active and responsible citizens, were
lauded for accomplishments that set a new academic benchmark for QA Doha.
By providing a holistic education focused on ensuring academic, physical, social,
and cultural growth, QA Doha – which offers Primary, Middle Year, and International
Baccalaureate Diploma Programs – shapes well-rounded students who are prepared
for higher education and leadership in both their career and their life.
“Through your studies, you have honed your analytical abilities, strengthened your
powers of observation, and sharpened your capacity to reflect,” Dr Eric Sands,
Director, QA Doha, told the Class of 2015.
“The process of reaching your ultimate destination will be fraught with the unknown,
but what you will discover will be wonderful. What you will discover is yourself.”
Class of 2015 Valedictorian Osama Ghani told his fellow graduates: “Qatar Academy
Doha has given us a wonderful support system, and it is up to you to ensure you
provide others with such a system, by opening your heart to people.”
Guest speaker Mohammed Al Khater – who graduated from QA Doha as its
Valedictorian in 2005, and is now Co-Director and Manager of a Qatar-based real
estate and construction company – encouraged students to “endeavor to be your
authentic self”, saying: “You must do what matters most to you.
“Our reward is the set of skills and the core values instilled in us. Learning is a
journey of self-discovery - trusting yourself is the ultimate lesson.”
HASSAN AL JAHNI, CLASS
OF 2015 GRADUATE, QA
DOHA
194
STUDENTS GRADUATED
IN ABP’S CLASS OF 2015
“What stands out for me
about the education I have
received at QA Doha is the
variety of courses offered, especially through
the IB Program, and the friendships I have
made. By getting to know so many people
from different cultures, I have expanded my
knowledge and awareness. Studying at QA
Doha has prepared me for higher education,
and to make my contribution to the future
development of Qatar.”
comprehensive cycle of education.
Adept in critical thinking, dedicated to lifelong learning, perceptive of diversity, and with a strong appreciation and understanding of
Qatar’s culture and traditions, these well-educated and highly-skilled
students have been equipped with the tools to shape their destiny,
MOHAMMED OBAIDAN,
CLASS OF 2015
GRADUATE, QATAR
LEADERSHIP ACADEMY
“Through studying at QLA, I
have learned discipline, loyalty,
and respect, and this has prepared me to enter
the next stage of my life and reach the next level
of my ambition. It has allowed me to develop my
leadership and language skills, and these will be
extremely important to me in the future – a future I
am very positive about.”
FAWAZ NAJEM, CLASS OF
2015 GRADUATE, QATAR
LEADERSHIP ACADEMY
“The experience I have had at
QLA is almost impossible to fully
describe. I have developed so many
important characteristics – co-operation, mutual
respect, compassion, integrity – and my fellow cadets
feel like brothers to me. As I have overcome many
challenges already, I now have the confidence that I
will overcome those that lie ahead.”
JENEANE JABER, CLASS
OF 2015 GRADUATE, QA
DOHA
“I have been provided with
so many opportunities at
QA Doha that I might not
have had elsewhere. It has allowed me to fully
understand what it means to be part of a global
community, to be innovative, and to focus my
goals. My best memory will be of the curriculum
itself – the IB Program was what drew me to QA
Doha, and that has been a major factor in me
enjoying the best years of my life at the school.”
and make decisive contributions to the realization of the vision for
Qatar’s future.
With an emphasis on developing qualities such as youth empowerment that is as significant as its focus on traditional learning, the
holistic educational environment of QF schools is imbuing young
12
people with confidence, awareness, respect, team spirit, and leadership capabilities. By providing the best, QF produces the best – and
talented, creative, diligent, well-rounded, and aspirational students
such as the Class of 2015 are proof of the success of this devotion to
excellence in education.
STUDENTS GRADUATED IN
AWSAJ’S CLASS OF 2015
AWSAJ’S PRACTICES ARE
SHOWING SUCCESS
The road to the realization of dreams will lead to colleges and universities in Qatar, the
US, and the UK for the latest batch of graduates of Awsaj Academy, a member of Qatar
Foundation.
Members of its Class of 2015 were celebrated for the dedication they have displayed in
overcoming academic and personal obstacles, and their commitment to unlocking their
human potential, as they were honored on 4 June 2015 during a ceremony at the school
that, for them, has been akin to a family.
Awsaj’s mission is to advance the achievement of students with learning challenges,
through instructional services and inclusive teaching practices that bolster students’
skills and self-belief. “I have found these young adults to be bright, intelligent, polite, and
resourceful – it is clear that they have goals, and a desire to make their families proud,” Dr
Ralph Pruitt, Director, Awsaj, told the graduation ceremony, at which Dr Hassan Al Derham,
Vice President, Research, Qatar University, was the guest speaker.
“At Awsaj we are promoting inclusive practices that are showing success. With hard work,
and the right teachers who are well trained, we have shown that students’ skills can
improve. If given high quality and careful instruction and interventions, students can be
ready for college and a career of their choice.”
He told the Class of 2015: “I urge you to examine your life – determine where you are, and
what you need to do to be the kind of person you want to be.
“Create inspiring, noble, and honorable goals that inspire your imagination and create
excitement in your heart; and then keep an eye on them, and work consistently toward
achieving them.”
While many of Awsaj’s Class of 2015 will now study subjects including business
management, international affairs, journalism, and visual arts, some will enter public
service in Qatar.
MOHAMMED AL
KUBAISI, CLASS OF 2015
GRADUATE, AWSAJ
ACADEMY
21
CADETS GRADUATED IN
QLA’S CLASS OF 2015
“At Awsaj, I have grown from
being a boy to being a man. I
have improved my skills in English and so many
other areas, and I have learned independence and
the importance of taking responsibility. Every time
I have entered the school, it has given me positive
energy, and I will take this positivity into my future
career.”
KHALID AL GHANIM, CLASS
OF 2015 GRADUATE, AWSAJ
ACADEMY
“Every day at Awsaj, our teachers
have really pushed us to realize
our potential, and to constantly
seek to improve ourselves. It has helped me to form
a greater understanding of my culture, and taught
me to believe in myself. Studying at Awsaj, and at QF,
has been an incredible honor – knowing that you are
receiving the best education inspires you to give your
best.”
10
Focus
“We believe
face-to-face
communication
is very
important.
Although we
communicate
with most of ICN
representatives
on a daily basis”
Listening to many voices, to
speak with one QF voice
PUBLICATIONS
REVIEW
Georgetown
SFS-Qatar
Enterprise
n The Georgetown
SFS-Qatar Enterprise is
published by Georgetown
University in Qatar (GUQ), a partner university of
Qatar Foundation, and is
oriented toward business,
entrepreneurship, and global
markets. The studentpublished magazine is
the first of its kind for the
university, whose graduates
go on to pursue careers
in various fields including
business.
The magazine aims to
discuss current business
issues from various
academic and professional
perspectives, while also
highlighting GU-Q’s business
profile by covering student
accomplishments, faculty
research, and alumni
achievements. It is a project
of the GU-Q’s Business
Society (GBS).
The magazine offers GU-Q
students the opportunity to
showcase everything they
have learned throughout
their all-encompassing
selection of core academics
and demonstrate how
their education can also be
applied in corporate sector
careers.
Write toWrite
us: [email protected]
to us: [email protected]
THURSDAY
THURSDAY25
2 APRIL
JUNE 2015
Senior Occupational Health Specialist, Health, Safety, Security &
Environment, talks about being awarded the Best Employee of the
Group of Capital Projects, Facilities Management & HSSE accolade.
What does your job role involve?
My responsibility lies with risk
assessments, studies, inspections and
investigations regarding anything to do
with health and hygiene.
What is the main challenge you face,
and the biggest reward?
The main challenge is the fact many
people don’t understand the totality of
what health and hygiene entails. When
we do inspections, it is sometimes
difficult to get the message across.
The biggest reward is when people
call us after visits to thank us for the
difference we have made, and for the
fact we look after them.
What would you consider the
highlight of your work?
My highlight is doing inspections
at all the facilities in QF. I spend
most of my time out in the field,
so I get to meet many people
from all over. We also investigate
any complaints and do studies on
Internal Communication Network keeps information flow relevant
Best
Employee
of the
Group
of Capital Projects, Facilities
Management & HSSE
specific issues – recently we did one
regarding smoking at QF. We look at
the existing rules and infrastructure,
see what is lacking, and then make
recommendations to management.
What would you consider your
biggest achievement?
I came from the Oil and Gas sector
where documentation plays a vital role
in preserving ideas, accomplishments,
day-to-day activities, and holding one
accountable. So once I commenced
my work here I started looking at
ways to make the information more
accessible. To have centralized the
documentation system, and received
an award for it, are therefore my
absolute highlights.
What does working in Qatar
Foundation (QF) mean to you?
It was a dream to join QF as I
started my career in Qatar as a
sub-contractor working under
QF a few years ago. I joined last
year, and have come to realize just
how intensely focused people are
on their jobs. It is a very dynamic
place, with amazing people.
How does your work help QF in
its mission to fulfill Qatar National
Vision 2030?
What we do, does help in a small way
to spread awareness about health
and hygiene in general, which makes
our working environments more
sustainable. We encourage people
to come and talk to us, and I think
people now better understand that we
are there to support them and make a
difference in the community.
Do you have any hobbies?
I love to travel and connect with new
people, ideas and cultures.
What do you like the most about Qatar? Qatar is a fast-developing country.
I came here eight years ago, when
things were more complicated and
more of a challenge. Since then,
so much has changed, and I feel
proud that in some small way I have
contributed to it.
British artists feel perfectly at home here in the Gulf
Former Doha residents put on an exhibition at HBKU Student Center
THREE British artists living in
the Gulf have come together
to share their perspective of
the theme ‘Home’ with the
community in Qatar.
The exhibition, titled ‘Home’,
features work by Ben Barbour,
Sonia Brewin and Camilla Fyfe.
Supported by Qatar Foundation member Hamad bin Khalifa University
(HBKU)’s Student Life Department,
it was launched at HBKU Student
Center Art Gallery on 1 June 2015.
Fyfe said: “We met in Doha, which
was home to all of us at that time. Sonia has since moved to Dubai late last
year. We realized that not only was the
Gulf home to all of us, but we had all
studied in London at The Royal Drawing School, although at different points
in time. The exhibition showcases our
different perspectives on the idea of
‘home’ within the Gulf.”
11
Listening to many voices,
to speak with one QF voice
Baljeet Singh Mann
What does this recognition
mean to you?
It means a lot as I have worked in
my spare time to create a centralized
data system where all health and
hygiene incidents and inspection can
be uploaded. It then generates reports
with graphs and statistics for the
management, and saves time by three
quarters as well as printing resources.
Behind
the the
Scenes
From
Top
Follow
uson:
on:twitter.com/QF
twitter.com/QFTelegraph,
twitter.com/QF,
facebook.com/QatarFoundation
facebook.com/QFTelegraph
Follow QF
, facebook.com/QatarFoundation
THURSDAY 27 MARCH
APRIL 2015
2013
instagram.com/qatarfoundation
, Snapchat username: QFSNAPS
Culture
Review
The exhibition showcased the artists’ perceptions of their time spent in the Gulf
Explaining the theme of the exhibition,
Barbour said: “It raises questions about
home as a place that frames our possessions, relationships, memories and
aspirations, particularly when home is
outside the country of origin.”
The context of the group’s current
homes in the Arabian Peninsula is the
distinguishing factor uniting their work,
as is their use of media and gestural
mark making.
As each artist explores their unique per-
ception of home through drawing, differing aspects emerge for the audience
to examine and reflect upon.
All of the artists utilize drawing as their
primary medium in their work, a medium still relevant in today’s digital age.
Fyfe told the QF Telegraph the exhibition aimed to highlight the importance
of incorporating drawing into art.
She said: “The collaboration came
about because we had similar ideas
about drawing and its continued importance and relevance within art today. For us a drawing can be an initial
sketch of an idea, a work in progress or
a finished piece in its own right. As well
as drawings, the exhibition also features
sculptures in marble, wood and plaster.
“I hope the exhibition helps the visitor
appreciate observational drawing both
as a medium in its own right, but also as
a foundation for other disciplines such
as painting and sculpture.”
WITH communication able to make or
break any organization, Qatar Foundation (QF) has spared no effort in
creating its Internal Communication
Network (ICN) to facilitate the best
possible exchange of information.
An essential part of this is the
Communication Directorate’s quarterly events where the 105 communication representatives from across
QF get together to discuss a range of
issues and upcoming events.
“We understood that we had to
improve the communication within
Qatar Foundation, especially because
it was expanding so quickly and is so
diverse,” said Sara Al Safar, Head of
Public Relations, Communication
Directorate, as she described how
the network was created.
“It was part of the re-launch
of our communications strategy a few years ago when we
realized we cannot deal with
everyone on a one-to-one basis the whole time.
“We already had Maktabi,
through which information was
centralized and distributed, but we
wanted to take the concept forward by
getting everyone involved to meet up
once in a while.This would help to enhance our reach to the whole QF community and keep it better informed.”
Building on top of the internal
website, ICN took shape after the
directorates and centers identified
specific people to form information
focal points.
“They feed their information into
the central network, from where the
correct information can be distributed
internally and externally according to
the specific needs. We outline the information that is required so it is quite
straightforward,” added Al Safar.
One-to-one induction sessions
were held with all the representatives so that everyone understood
ICN and their important roles, but
the quarterly meetings, which started
in 2013, now play a big part in involving them in events planning and
main projects.
In the lead-up to the events, the
Communication Directorate team
identifies specific subjects coming
up in the following three months,
as well as general topics that need to
be discussed. These are communicated with all the representatives and
fine-tuned to best address everyone’s
needs, before the meeting space is
booked and invitations are sent out.
At the meetings, all the representa-
tives are briefed on upcoming events
and projects, and also the Communication Directorate’s strategies, challenges and successes. “It is also a platform for them, because they can talk
to everyone present and explain their
specific needs,” Al Safar explained.
“In this way we strengthen the
relationships and get more communications personnel to be more proactive.
“We believe face-to-face communication is very important. Although we
communicate with most of them on
a daily basis, and have built relationships with them, the meetings play a
very important role. It is here where
people can put faces to the names
and where we all better understand
the complexities of the broader QF
community.”
According to Al Safar, the biggest
challenge is that since ICN represents a broad constituency, not all
attendees are similarly engaged with
some of the topics under discussion.
“However, it is useful because they
better understand the entire network,
and are more informed,” Al Safar
added.
“One of our core objectives is to
explain best practice of communications throughout ICN. It is a way to
inform, engage and educate at the
same time.
“The great thing is that everyone
is committed. They see the need for
this, especially as they realize better
how we need to work together.”
Al Safar adds the Communication Directorate has to ensure it is
the face of QF communications. She
said: “When any entity or member
provides us with information, we can
rework and distribute it effectively
and target it internally and externally.
“If each of the members and entities simply send out emails all the
time to everyone, it is not taken as
seriously. The main thing is to prevent people from working in silos,
not effectively communicating with
each other.”
While email and telephonic communications with the representatives
play an important role, the network
helps to ensure their wider communication needs are met.
“On the one hand we expect them
to inform us of all events, initiatives,
programs and happenings that are of
importance to the QF community,”
added Al Safar. “And they can come
to us with issues that concern them.”
This happens when, for instance,
a new policy needs to be communicated to the QF community. “The
specific entity can come forward
when they have any communication
challenge and we will give them the
THE MAIN AIMS OF INTERNAL COMMUNICATION NETWORK
MAXIMIZING
COVERAGE OF
QF’S MANY
ACTIVITIES,
EVENTS AND
INITIATIVES TO
SUPPORT THE
ORGANIZATION’S ONGOING MISSION:
This ensures that
the vision and
mission of QF is
promoted in an
effective fashion
to a wide audience. The network also serves
as a means of
distributing information within
QF, in addition to
Maktabi.
INCREASING
EFFICIENCY:
INTEGRATING
COVERAGE
The representa- PLANNING FOR
tives are respon- COMMUNICAsible for sending TION CHANthe communiNELS:
ENSURING A
UNIFIED APPROACH AND
CONSISTENT
MESSAGING
TO PROVIDE
The network
APPROPRIATE
ensures clear,
COVERAGE
direct contact
ACROSS ALL
between QF cen- COMMUNICAters/directorates/ TION CHANmembers and the NELS:
cation-related
material of their
center/directorate/member to
the Communications Directorate.
This includes
Communications
announcements Directorate. This
of events and re- enables the newsquests for media room to prepare
releases. As the their communicarepresentatives tion strategies
serve as focal
armed with all of
points, it prevents the facts, and a
double-handling specific person to
or missing
contact if further
communication information is
opportunities.
needed.
necessary support, with access to our
communication channels and tools,”
explained Al Safar. “We help them to
put together a strategy to communicate in the most effective way to get
the message across.
“On the other hand, should we
want to launch a specific campaign,
we reach out to the network. We first
Close cooperation between the
Communication
Directorate and
centers/directorates/members
represented by the
network allows
QF to promote a
reliable, coherent
message about its
vision and mission.
contact them and ask for suggestions
and what their needs are, before putting it together and then requesting
them to share the information across
the whole community.”
According to her the directorate’s
goal is to continuously improve the
communication network to best serve
the interests of QF.
12
Community
BUSINESS CARD
Write toWrite
us: [email protected]
to us: [email protected]
THURSDAY
THURSDAY25
2 APRIL
JUNE 2015
Islam Qunnaby
Facilities Engineer
rations
velopment – Ope
QF Research & De
prestigious organization, which
has a high profile in serving
and developing the community
across various aspects including
providing a concrete foundation
for quality education and a
platform for advanced research.
QF also enables me to unlock
my potential by strengthening
and developing my skills, and
empowering me to learn and
acquire new skills on a daily
basis.
What would you consider the
highlights of your job on a
daily basis?
My most important
responsibility is to maintain
a reliable research facility.
It includes spending time,
interacting with scientists and
researchers and discussing
their needs and concerns. I
assist them in achieving their
work with the best practices
that ensure their safety and
the safety of the facility. I also
provide them with appropriate
advice regarding technical issues
they could face regarding their
research facility.
What are the challenges you
face in your role?
When I do face a challenge,
I look at it as an opportunity
to expand my knowledge,
strengthen my decision-making
capabilities and enhance my
critical thinking. However,
managing and operating
a unique and complicated
research facility such as the
R&D complex, with this
magnitude and size, results
in several challenges, such as
understanding the importance
of the science and the basics
of it, delivering an adequate
infrastructure, providing
an excellent service to the
researchers and introducing
a unique world class research
culture to the foundation.
DID YOU KNOW?
The Annual Research Conference, QF R&D’s’s flagship conference, builds on nationwide efforts to advance Qatar’s
ambitious research agenda.
13
Learning to bond with horses
Nearly 400 children attend equine education program
What does your job role
include?
My team and I look after
managing and maintaining the
structural integrity of Qatar
Foundation’s (QF’s) stateof-the-art research facility
complex, by supporting brilliant
researchers in their science
adventure.
What aspect of QF R&D
appeals to you the most?
It offers abundant resources
and great potential for
knowledge expansion,
and it provides me with an
opportunity to work with
renowned world-class scientists
and researchers, and to be
involved in building and
managing a truly premier
organization that will become
a beacon for the best – not just
for this region, but globally by
hosting one of the best research
complexes in the world.
How does your job contribute
toward achieving Qatar
National Vision 2030?
My job plays a key support role
in readying and maintaining
the upcoming cutting-edge
research complex, including
aiding scientists as they tackle
key research issues relevant to
Qatar’s grand challenges. By
managing the research complex
effectively and efficiently,
my team contributes to the
four pillars of Qatar National
Vision 2030 by guaranteeing
a stable and sustainable
business environment, social
and human development and
environmental improvement.
What does working in QF
mean to you?
As I was born in Qatar, I have
been able to see QF grow
year by year since it was first
established. I always had
a dream to work in such a
Sports
Follow
uson:
on:twitter.com/QF
twitter.com/QF,
facebook.com/QatarFoundation
Follow QF
, facebook.com/QatarFoundation
THURSDAY 2 APRIL 2015
instagram.com/qatarfoundation
, Snapchat username: QFSNAPS
“It was an
amazing
tournament as
we organized it
in conjunction
with the younger
children to give
all the age groups
in our basketball
classes a chance
to participate”
First Youth Basketball
League is a success
SPORT IN BRIEF
Children spent time in the classroom as well as riding horses
NEARLY 400 children signed up to participate in this year’s Ramadan Equine
Education Program at AL SHAQAB, a
member of Qatar Foundation.
This very popular initiative, now in
its third year, aims to create a holistic
experience for kids aged 6-12 who are
interested in horses.
“It is not just about riding the horses, but teaching them how to bond
with the animals, how to lead them,
and how to clean their stalls,” said Eileen Verdieck, Manager, Equestrian
School.
The children are placed in a rotation of stations where they are taught
different aspects like how to approach
the horse, how to do a pre-ride check,
and about the muscle co-ordination
Mohammed Al Siddiqi
“I wanted to ride horses because
I really like these animals. It’s a lot
of fun, especially when you are on
top of them and moving around.”
needed to ride a horse.
They not only had the opportunity
to ride horses, but also to learn about
the animals’ body parts, participate in
different activities and even hold onto
a mechanic horse without falling off.
“We also have bespoke arts and crafts
that link up with what we are doing,”
said Verdieck.
She added that the children are
taught how to read the body language
of the horses as the animals are sensitive and need to be understood.
“We have a special ‘easy ride’ section which is quite unique. Here they
are taught a combination of riding
and gymnastics.”
According to Verdieck horse riding
is a long-term commitment, saying:
Salma Hasan
“I wanted to learn how to ride a
horse, and I find they are very soft
to touch. Other things I enjoyed was
learning about the horses’ body
parts and doing the coloring-in of
horse pictures.”
RAMADAN
SPORT TOURNAMENTS AT
HBKU
“With this program we can cover the
basics and hopefully they will return
for our other courses.”
Open to the public, the idea behind
it is also to offer children something
else to do, especially over Ramadan
and the school holidays. For four
weeks, from Saturdays to Thursdays,
two six-day programs are offered in
parallel, with one three-hour session
held in the afternoon, and the other
in the evening after Iftar.
“We want to get as many children
to have a good, safe experience to see
if they like it,” explained Verdieck.
“The feedback that we have received
and the huge interest shown have
been very positive.
“All in all, it is a lot of fun.”
Mhairi Alexander
“I joined because I want to learn
more about horses, and also how to
wash and groom them. My horse’s
name is Rose and she is very nice. It
has been very exciting.”
n Hamad
bin Khalifa
University
Student Center
has organized
a six-a-side
volleyball tournament
and a futsal tournament
during Ramadan 2015.
The tournaments consist
of eight teams divided into
two groups, and official
volleyball and futsal rules
are adhered to. The events,
which take place in the
evenings from 9.30pm, are
open to all QF members
and alumni. First Youth Basketball League is a success
Qatar Foundation Recreation Services recently
hosted its first Youth Basketball League tournament.
The tournament, which was held at the Community
and Recreation Center, proved to be very successful.
Various teams, consisting of 10 players each,
competed in four categories – Under 10, Under 12,
Under 14 and Under 16 – to see who could get the ball
into the hoop the most times.
The teams met up every Saturday from 18 April
2015 to 6 June 2015 and played from 9am to 3pm.
The open event was offered to promote individual
growth in the fundamentals of basketball, teamwork,
and good sportsmanship. Dribbling, passing and
shooting were the key skills the players on the offense
had to master as they sought to turn their possession
into points.
On the defensive side, preventing the ball
from getting to the hoop, or stealing it from their
opponents, were the key tactics deployed.
According to Ness Cabus, Recreation Coordinator, QF Support Services, the parents also
had a great time watching and cheering on their
kids during the games.
“It was an amazing tournament as we organized it
in conjunction with the younger children to give all
the age groups in our basketball classes a chance to
participate,” she said.
PRIVILEGE PROGRAM
QF members are entitled to discounts and special rates at a variety of outlets and amenities upon showing their QF ID.
ONGOING OFFERS
Doha Bus
15%
Titanium20-30%
Al Malaki Men’s Requirements
25%
Qatar Airways (Up to 12% for
sectors outside GCC, up to 5%
for sectors inside
the GCC, subject to conditions) AXA (home, travel, and vehicle
insurance)
10%
Momtaz Education Centre
10%
The Little Engineer
30%
Lollipops20%
Mosafer15%
Samsonite15%
Inglot10%
(Discount after minimum
purchase
of QR150)
Naturalizer10%
Levi’s15%
Roots20%
Guess15%
Morgan15%
Lab20%
Karisma10%
Aldo10%
Dune10%
Bench10%
Garage10%
Arts & Gems WLL
25-40%
Al Muftah Center
10-35%
TGI Fridays
10%
DHL Express
30%
Aramex (QF staff free shop and ship
registration, QF students 50%
discount)
Nissan-Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana
(Special price list on QF Portal)
Qatar International Beauty
Academy-Tajmeel Nasser Bin Khaled & Sons Co
(10% on labor charges and 30% on spare parts)
Relax Spa
Ezmiralda Beauty Center
Piano Beauty Lounge
Parrot Palace (offer on parrots and birds)
Al Muftah Jewellery
Mouawad Jewellery
Lina’s Paris
Photo Zone
Gulf Furniture
Blossom Flower Shop
Kiddy Zone
20%
5-10%
25%
20%
10-20%
20-50%
10-35%
20%
15-20%
20%
30%
10%
More details about offers and discounts, including a number
of savings on hotel rates, can be found on the QF Portal or by
emailing [email protected]
14
Time Off
“To achieve this,
we work with
select graduate programs in
adapting their
structure and
curriculum to
serve Qatar’s
needs”
Student Affairs members
get to grips with best practice on HBKU program
QUR’ANIC BOTANIC
GARDEN
Botanical terms
Arabic name: Ghulb
English name: Dense and/or
thick
Term definition
The garden or the orchard
is described as Ghlub when
it becomes with dense trees
growing close together. A tree is
described as Ghalbā if it is thick.
Also the term Ghulb means the
plant or herb has become fully
grown and dense.
References in the Holy Qur’an
and Hadith
The word Ghulb appears once
in the Holy Qur’an.
Allah the Most Sublime says:
“And enclosed gardens, dense
with lofty trees”
Write to us: [email protected]
THURSDAY 25 JUNE 2015
Student Affairs members get to grips
with best practice on HBKU program
Cultivating perspectives that take cultural and developmental aspects into account
IMPROVING the services delivered to
tertiary students at Qatar Foundation
(QF), and the rest of the country, was
given another boost when 13 university
faculty members completed a student
affairs program.
The program, offered by Hamad bin
Khalifa University (HBKU), a member
of QF, has been offered since 2011, and
cultivates commitment to student affairs
best practice.
It does so through building a student
affairs community, increasing connections, and developing interest in advanced graduate study among Qatari
and expatriate colleagues throughout the
country’s higher education sector.
According to one of the participants,
Maryam Keshaish, Student Financial
Services Officer, HBKU, the program
was very helpful. “It stressed the importance of higher education, and how
to better understand and interact with
students,” she said. “The other positive
aspects were that I got a broader perspective on all the QF entities, and made
new friends.”
Hanan Al Thani, Student Affairs Senior Specialist, Office of Vice President,
Student Affairs, HBKU, said the program is offered due to a lack of available
master’s degree programs in student and
higher education affairs administration
in Qatar and the region, adding: “The
HBKU certificate in Student Affairs is
an introduction and an enticement for
Qatari and other colleagues to pursue
Tried &
Tested
this level of advanced professional development and/or graduate degrees.
“To achieve this, we work with select
graduate programs in adapting their
structure and curriculum to serve Qatar’s needs.” Another participant, Noor Alghanim,
Acting Unit Head, Volunteer Affairs,
Qatar University, said she learnt a lot
by meeting other colleagues and hearing about their experiences. “I have
just started working in this field, so it
was great to learn I’m not alone; others
face similar challenges,” she said. “This
program explained better the different
needs of first-year students compared to
program was a very good introduction
to Student Affairs as she comes from
a business background. “It gave me a
great perspective and taught us the best
practices in this field,” she said.
According to Al Thani, the program
is open to any person who is in a role
typically included as falling within the
student affairs area. “The aim is for
Qatar to nurture fully credentialed
Student Affairs professionals who have
the ability to conduct research, create
models, and provide programs in ways
that consider the nuance of cultural
and developmental variations among
its students.”
Staying healthy during Ramadan
How to keep hydrated and in peak condition when fasting
Surat Abs, verse 30
By Ahmed ElGharib
Assistant researcher
To find out more about
the Qur’anic Botanic Garden,
email: [email protected]
post-graduates, among others.”
According to Adil Elshaigi, Student
Affairs and Services Officer, Finance
and Administration, Qatar Faculty of
Islamic Studies, a college of HBKU, a
member of QF, the program was a real
eye-opener. “It is all the basic information you need regarding student affairs,
short of getting a degree in this field,” he
said. “In fact, I would suggest it should
be mandatory for all staff members who
have not formally studied this to do so.
It is a very useful program.”
Tiffany Ho, Communications Manager, Northwestern University in Qatar, a partner university of QF, feels the
BEATING the heat and drinking enough
water when Ramadan coincides with the
high temperatures of the summer can be
difficult. But even though Muslims are
fasting between sunrise and sunset, it is
still possible to manage your fluid intake to
maximize your body’s hydration and stay
in peak condition.
Firstly, it is important to know why our
bodies need water. Humans are essentially
70 per cent water and need water to control temperature, kidney function, transporting nutrients around the body and for
digestion among other uses.
The body is losing water continuously
throughout the day through breathing,
sweating and using the toilet, but normally
we keep topping up our hydration levels
by drinking throughout the day. This, of
course, is not possible during Ramadan,
so those observing the fast have to make
the most of the liquid they drink during the hours of darkness, and limit the
amount they lose during the day.
The best way to achieve the latter is by
staying inside as much as possible and
avoiding strenuous exercise – which makes
you sweat more and breathe harder. After
sunset try to drink plenty of water rather
than soft drinks or fruit juices, and eat
foods with a high water content like grapes,
apples, cucumbers and water melons.
Dairy products like milk and yogurt are
also effective for rehydration but try to
avoid drinks with high levels of caffeine –
like tea and coffee – as these have a diuretic effect, meaning you need to go to the
toilet more often and so lose more liquid.
Avoiding dehydration will keep you
healthy, leaving you free to enjoy the spirituality of the holy month.
15
EMBRACE THE ESSENCE OF THE
HOLY MONTH OF RAMADAN AT
QATAR FOUNDATION
Location: Education City (Near Gate 17)
The Taraweeh and Qiyam Prayers schedule lead by various Imams at the
Education City Mosque during the Holy Month of Ramadan
Reader
Education City Mosque
Nights
Taraweeh and
Qiyam Prayers
6 – 9 Ramadan
Taraweeh
Sheikh Turki Obeyed Al Mari
10 Ramadan
Taraweeh
Sheikh Fahed Al Kindari
11 Ramadan
Taraweeh
12 – 13 Ramadan
Taraweeh
Sheikh Mohammed Al Luhaidan
14 Ramadan
Sheikh Abdullah Mohammed Al Nemeh
SummaRise
Sunday to Saturday
Journey to Islam
Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday,
Saturday
9am, 4pm
Children of Adam and Eve
Monday, Wednsday, Friday
9am, 4pm
Taraweeh
Ramadan Abroad
Sunday to Saturday
9.30am, 5.30pm
15 Ramadan
Taraweeh
Inside a Mosque
Sunday to Saturday
10am, 5pm, 10.30pm
Sheikh Abdulhadi Kanakri
16 Ramadan
Taraweeh
Sheikh Saad Al Ghamdi
17 Ramadan
Taraweeh
Ramadan 101
Sunday to Saturday
10.30am, 4.30pm, 7pm
Sheikh Abdullah Mohammed Al Nemeh
18 – 20 Ramadan
Taraweeh
Misconceptions
Sunday to Saturday
11am, 2pm, 7.30pm
Sheikh Mohammed Qasim Al Qahtani
21 – 22 Ramadan
Taraweeh
The Specialist
Sunday to Saturday
1.30pm, 3.30pm, 10pm
Sheikh Mohammed Al Barak
23 – 27 Ramadan
Taraweeh
Sheikh Mohammed Qasim Al Qahtani
28 – 30 Ramadan
Taraweeh
Sheikh Abdelwali Al Arkani
21 – 25 Ramadan
Qiyam
Sheikh Mohammed Ali Al Gherbani
Sheikh Mohammed Hamad Al Ghayathin
Participants in the student affairs program, offered by HBKU, attended a ceremony recognizing their efforts
What’s
On
From
the Top
Follow
uson:
on:twitter.com/QF
twitter.com/QFTelegraph,
twitter.com/QF,
facebook.com/QatarFoundation
facebook.com/QFTelegraph
Follow QF
, facebook.com/QatarFoundation
THURSDAY 27 MARCH
APRIL 2015
2013
instagram.com/qatarfoundation
, Snapchat username: QFSNAPS
Sheikh Faleh Khomayyis Al Hajri
26 – 30 Ramadan
Qiyam
Follow QF Radio on Facebook and Twitter
http://facebook.com/Qfradio
http://twitter.com/Qfradio2
QF Radio’s programs can be downloaded via iTunes.
The station can be found under Radio > International > QF Radio.
8am, 12.30pm, 11pm
QF Radio is available
in Arabic on 93.7FM
or online via www.
qfradio.com
16
Listings
Write toWrite
us: [email protected]
to us: [email protected]
THURSDAY
THURSDAY25
2 APRIL
JUNE 2015
Have your event listed. Send us an email: [email protected]
RAMADAN ACTIVITIES
SUMMER
CAMP
28 June 2015 - 9 July 2015
Assembly Place, Community
and Recreation Centre
8am-2pm
Qatar Foundation’s
Recreation Services and
Community Services will
team up to provide two
weeks of different sets of
activities for children aged
6-12. These include trips
around Education City, an
Arts and Crafts Workshop,
as well as sports activities.
Children should bring
their swimwear with them.
The cost is QR300 for one
week or QR500 for two
weeks. Limited slots are
available.
Email recreationcentre@
qf.org.qa or
communityservices@
qf.org.qa, or call
445-40772 for more
information
Ramadan Arts and Crafts
Ongoing until 17 July 2015
Games Room, Education City
Every day, 5pm -11pm
Email clubhousereception@
qf.org.qa or call 445-40834 for
more information
* For children aged 4 to 12
years
Ramadan Kareem
Ongoing until 17 July 2015
Ramadan Tent, Clubhouse
Reception, Education City,
6pm-11pm
Offering free Arabic coffee,
Arabic tea and dates
Email clubhousereception@
qf.org.qa or call 445-40834 for
more information
ECCH Ramadan Animated
Movies
Every Thursday and Friday,
9pm
Email clubhousereception@
qf.org.qa or call 445-40834
Recreation Center Ramadan
Animated Movies
Every Saturday,Tuesday and
Thursday, 8pm at Al Qot
Theater, 2nd Floor
Email [email protected].
qa or call 445-40772
Al SHAQAB Equine Education
Ramadan Program
Ongoing until 16 July 2015
Saturday to Thursday, 1A
2pm-5pm; 1B 9pm-12am
No equestrian experience
needed.The program, aims to
teach children the basic rules for
dealing with horses and the art
of riding.
Call 445-42351 for further
information.
Ramadan Hotline
Qatar Diabetes Association has
launched a Ramadan Hotline
for the Holy Month, to support
and advise diabetes patients
who are fasting.The phone will
be operated in collaboration with
doctors from Hamad Medical
Corporation and Primary
Health Care.The QDA Hotline
is 4454-7311 or 5527-4919
(8.30am-1.30pm) or 55981331 (8pm-11.30pm)
EVENTS
JUNE-JULY 2015
Darts Singles Tournament
26 June 2015
Awsaj Reception, 6.30pm
Prizes: First place 500 Lulu
voucher; second place 300 Lulu
voucher; third place 200 Lulu
Voucher
Email [email protected].
qa or call 445-42549 for more
information
* For people aged 16 years and
above
Kids Taekwondo End of Term
awarding ceremony and
demonstration
28 June 2015
4pm-5pm
Email [email protected].
qa or call 445-42549 for more
information
Squash Lessons
2 July 2015 - 17 September
Thursdays, 9am-11pm
Education City Clubhouse
QR500 per term (12 lessons, one
hour per week - timings after
Ramadan will be 1pm-10pm)
Email clubhousereception@
qf.org.qa or call 445-40834 or
445-40829 for more information
Participants must buy their
own materials.
For students aged 13-18. For
more information call 44020555 or email vcuqinfo@
vcu.edu
Creative Discovery
ONGOING EVENTS
5 July 2015 - 16 July 2015
VCU Qatar Room
Sunday-Thursday for two
weeks, 9am-1.15pm with a
15 minute break at 11am (no
lunch provided).
QR2125
Students will be painting,
drawing, illustrating, printing,
and using computer graphics
programs. They will do both
individual and collaborative
work. Through a museum
visit, students will also
experience a variety of ways
to look at and understand
works of art. During the class,
students will participate in
numerous creativity and
artistic thinking exercises.
The class will culminate with
an exhibit of student work
open to family and friends.
Wael Shawky: Crusades and
Other Stories
Ongoing Exhibition
Ground Floor Galleries, Mathaf:
Arab Museum of Modern Art
All Day
Mathaf Collection: Summary,
Part 1
Ongoing Exhibition: Permanent
Collection,
First Floor Galleries, Mathaf:
Arab Museum of Modern Art,
All Day
Playgroup Pals
Dukhan Hall, Clubhouse,
Education City,
Every Tuesday: 9am-12pm
Every Friday: 5-10pm
Every Saturday: 5-9pm
*For children aged under 5 years
All activities below are for QF members and students only.
RECREATION
CENTER
COMMUNITY AND RECREATION
MOVIES
Tues, Thurs, and Sat. Times:
4-6pm. Open to all QF staff and
family members.
Ain AlQot Theater, 2nd Floor
Recreation Center. For information
email: [email protected].
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HEALTHCARE
The Medical Center
Sun–Thurs: 7am–4pm and Sat:
8am–noon. Tel: 4454 1342
Nutrition Services
Sat, 10am–6pm, Sun, 8am–4pm,
Mon, 10am-6pm, Tues 10am–6pm
and Wed 8am–4pm, Thu, 8am4pm.
To schedule an appointment
with a nutritionist email
[email protected]
Sun and Wed, 6-6.30am
Mixed Yoga
Tues, 4.45-5.30pm
Jacuzzi, Spa and Sauna
Fai Club (women) and Al Wahaa
(men) Sat–Thurs, 1–9.45pm
Kids Activities
Kids Aerobics Class; Basketball
Class; Football Class; Gymnastics
Class; Smash Tennis Class;
Squash Class; Taekwondo Class;
Trampoline Class & Swimming
Classes
For days and timings, please email
Community Recreation Center at
[email protected] or call
4454 0772, 4454 0841
EDUCATION CITY
CLUBHOUSE
SPORT AND FITNESS
Heath and Fitness Classes
SPORT AND FITNESS
Swimming
Public swimming: Sun–Thurs: 6-7am,
3-9.45pm; Fri-Sat: 8am-9.45pm
Ladies Time: Sun and Wed: 5-8pm
Men’s Time: Thurs: 8.15-9.45pm
School swimming: Sun–Thurs:7am–
3pm
Zumba Fitness for Ladies
Sun and Tues, 6.30-7.30pm
SOCIAL ACTIVITIES
Faculty and Staff Soccer
Outdoor Multipurpose Court
(MPC), 6–8pm, Sun
Rebound Class
Wed and Sat, 4-5pm
Senior Management Football
Wooden floor gym, 7–9pm, Tues
Basketball Social
Outdoor MPC, 7–9pm, Tues
Floorball Social
Wooden floor gym, 7–9pm, Tues
Badminton Social
Wooden floor gym, 6–9pm, Wed
Green floor gym, 10am–1pm, Fri
Heath and Fitness Classes
Mixed Level Yoga for Ladies
Mon, 5-6.15pm
Spin Sanity
Mon, 6.30-7.30pm
SOCIAL ACTIVITIES
Badminton Social
6-8pm, Tues
Basketball Social
6-8pm, Thurs
Volleyball Social
4.30-6.30pm, Sun
Squash Social
6-7pm, Mon; 4.30-6.30pm, Fri
Tennis Social
6-9pm, Mon and Wed; 8-10am, Fri
Personal Training
Sun, Mon, Wed, and Sat, 6-6.30am
Jacuzzi, Spa and Sauna
Male and female spas open from
1–10pm every day except Tuesday.
Spinning Class
Kids Activities
Squash; Tennis; Zumbatomic;
Taekwondo and Cricket Class
For days and timings, please
email Clubhouse Recreation at
[email protected] or
call 4454 0834, 4454 0829
DINING
Lebaina Restaurant
Sun-Wed: 7am–9.30pm
Thurs–Sat: 7am–10.30pm
Breakfast served daily 7–11am
The Grill
Sun-Wed: 5–9pm
Thurs-Sat: 5–10pm
Meseika Snack Bar
Sun-Wed: 6–9.45pm
Thurs–Sat: 6–10.45pm
CLUBHOUSE MOVIES
Tuesdays (7-9pm - over 18s
only), Thursdays (7-9pm),
Fridays (3-5pm) and Saturdays
(3-5pm). Open to all QF staff
and family members at EC
Clubhouse. For information email
[email protected]
COMMUNITY SUPPORT
SERVICES
Sun–Wed: 8am–10pm
Thurs–Sat: 8am–11pm
AWSAJ
RECREATION CENTER
OPENING HOURS
7am-10pm
RECREATION ACTIVITIES
Swimming Pool
School Swim Time:
Sun-Thurs, 7am-2.30pm
Public swimming:
Sun to Thurs- 2.30-9.45pm, Fri
- 8am-9.45pm, Sat - 12-9.45pm;
Ladies Time: Tues - 5-8pm, Sat 8am-12pm
HEALTH AND FITNESS
Adult Taekwondo
6.30-7.30pm, Sun and Wed
Ladies Zumba Fitness
6-7pm, Sun and Tues; 4-5pm, Mon
Ladies Aqua Fitness
6-7pm, Tues
Girls Learn to Swim 2
5-6pm, Tues
Adults Learn to Swim
6.30-7.30pm, Wed
Ladies Lap Swimming Class
8-9am, Sat
SOCIAL ACTIVITIES
Badminton Social
5-7pm, Sun
Ladies Football Social
7-8pm, Sun
Volleyball Social
4-6pm, Mon and Wed
Table Tennis Social
6-7pm, Sat
Kids Activities
Swimming Classes; Athletics; Kids
Football; Taekwondo Class
For more information please
contact [email protected].
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FACILITIES
Multipurpose hall (basketball,
badminton, football, climbing
wall & volleyball courts), Pitch 4,
Swimming Pool, Mixed Fitness
Center, Studio Room, Activity
Room, West Green Spine
(Volleyball, Basketball, Football
Court) and Multipurpose Hall –
Procurement Directorate.
HBKU STUDENT
CENTER
OPENING HOURS
Sat-Wed: 7am-10pm; Thurs: 7amMidnight; Fri: 1pm-Midnight.
HEALTHCARE
Primary Health Care Center
Sun–Thurs: 7.30am–8.30pm
Sat: 12-8pm
SHOPPING
iSpot
Sat-Thurs: 10am-6pm
Sidra
Sat-Wed: 7am-10pm. Thurs: 7am12am. Friday: 1pm-12am
Tribe Bookstore
Sat–Thurs: 8am–9pm
Xerox
Sat-Thurs: 9am-7pm
Kulud Pharmacy
Sat-Thurs: 10am-8pm
DINING
Continental Co
Sat-Thurs: Breakfast 7-10.30am.
Lunch 11am-3pm/Dinner 5-8pm.
Friday: Lunch 1-3pm/Dinner 5-8pm
Papa John’s
Sat-Thur: 10am-10pm.
Friday: 1-10pm
Gloria Jean’s Coffees
Sun-Wed: 8am-10pm. Thurs: 8am11pm. Friday: 3-11pm
Tel: 4480 0448
AL SHAQAB
THE CLUB
Chef’s Garden Restaurant
Daily: 11am-9pm
SHOPPING
LuLu Express
Daily: 7am–11.30pm
HEALTH AND FITNESS
ACTIVITIES
Spinning Class
Sun, 5.30-6.30pm
Zumba for Ladies
Tues and Wed, 6-7pm
For more information please
contact [email protected]
For venue details call Recreation
Center, Tel: 4454 0841; Education
City Clubhouse, Tel: 4454 0829;
Student Center, Tel: 4454 0288; or
Awsaj Recreation Center, Tel: 4454
2549; or find Qatar Foundation
Recreation Services on Facebook