Qatar Foundation event points out the necessity of preserving Arabic language

H H Sheikha Moza bint Nasser speaking at the opening ceremony

Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, H H Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, highlighted the shared responsibility in preserving the Arabic language as a fundamental aspect of local identity.

Speaking at the inauguration of the International Day of Education activities organized by Qatar Foundation in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, Sheikha Moza addressed the identity challenges confronting the youth. The event, themed 'Education is everyone’s responsibility,' took place at the Ceremonial Court in Education City, with the presence of H E Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, Vice Chairperson and CEO of Qatar Foundation, along with other officials.

During a conversation with Sheikha Nouf Al Thani, Executive Director of Projects and Strategic Partnerships in QF’s Pre-University Education, Sheikha Moza discussed the language-related issues faced by students, emphasizing that the root cause of the problem lies in students' proficiency in the Arabic language.

“The Arabic language is the incubator of thought, cultural understanding and heritage, and thus identity,” said Sheikha Moza.

She emphasized that tackling this issue is a collective responsibility of everyone involved in a child’s upbringing, including families, schools, and media institutes.

H H Sheikha Moza asked students in the audience to be proud of their identity saying, “Have confidence in yourself and always bear in mind the unique and wonderful qualities of the Arabic language and culture. Be open to others and celebrate their characteristics, but I ask you to reject the aspects of global citizenry that require you to erase or weaken our local and national identity.”

H H Sheikha Moza and H E Sheikha Hind also toured the exhibition by QF entities and interacted with students.

H H Sheikha Moza and H E Sheikha Hind also visited the exhibition featuring entities from Qatar Foundation and engaged with students.

During a panel discussion organized by QF's Pre-University Education (PUE) on the shared responsibility for language and identity, experts and officials emphasized the imperative to enhance the teaching and learning of the Arabic language.

The discussion underscored society's collective duty in relation to language and identity, highlighting the crucial role of language in shaping and reinforcing one's identity. Abeer Al Khalifa, President of PUE at QF; Dr. Ibrahim Al Khulaifi, a Kuwaiti expert in educational and developmental psychology; Dr. Sharifa Al Emadi, Executive Director of QF’s Doha International Family Institute; and Maryam Al Muhannadi, Director of Public Relations and Communications at the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, also shared their perspectives during the session.

“Today’s celebration highlights the significance of education in fostering social growth and building sustainable and resilient societies. And by commemorating this day, Qatar Foundation showcases its commitment and keen belief in the importance of investing in human development,” said Abeer Al Khalifa.

Sheikha Nouf Al Thani, in her address to the session, pointed out that QF has incorporated Arabic as a medium of instruction in schools, demonstrating QF's dedication to advancing the Arabic language and national identity.

“At Qatar Foundation, we have aimed since the beginning of our journey to provide high-quality education linked to our language, values and national identity,” she said.

The activities organized by Qatar Foundation on the International Day of Education aimed to motivate both public and private entities, as well as individuals across society, to actively support and enhance the quality of education throughout Qatar.

“We focus on this day to showcase how important is education, and how Qatar has established a strong stand, and has specific elements to serve all aspects of education,” Khaled Kassab, Public Relations Officer, Pre-University Education at QF, told The Peninsula.

He said that the activities have a special focus on the importance of offering inclusive education to children of all abilities. “We have different workshops and will show how important is the collaboration between QF and other entities within the public and private sector. Also, we showcase how strong the private sector has become a big part of the educational journey of Qatar,” said Kassab.

Participation in the International Day of Education activities involved 11 schools under Qatar Foundation and 22 entities hosting various activities. The day featured numerous insightful discussions, workshops, and open activities for the public. Parents also had the chance to visit their children's schools at Qatar Foundation and take part in workshops and community activities.

Source: The Peninsula