Latest news with #EducationAboveAllFoundation


Qatar Tribune
23-07-2025
- Politics
- Qatar Tribune
QFFD advances global humanitarian efforts with deals worth QR1.92 billion
Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD) has signed 16 strategic agreements worth QR1.92 billion to support a wide range of humanitarian and development initiatives for more than 17 million individuals worldwide. The signing ceremony was attended by Chairman of the Board of Directors of QFFD HE Sheikh Thani bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Minister of State for International Cooperation and Vice Chairperson of the Board of Directors of QFFD HE Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Food Security of the Republic of Sierra Leone HE Dr Theresa Tenneh Dick, a number of officials from Bosnia and Herzegovina, representatives of a number of embassies in the State of Qatar, and representatives of United Nations organizations. The signing ceremony marked a major milestone in the State's global efforts to promote sustainable development and humanitarian aid initiatives. On the occasion, Al Misnad said: "What the State of Qatar is doing today through the Qatar Development Fund is not just an international commitment, but rather a reflection of our deep human values. We believe that investing in people is a real investment, and these agreements represent a concrete step towards building more stable and just societies and changing the lives of millions for the better. Qatar will remain an active partner in the global development process, placing people at the heart of its priorities." At this signing ceremony, the QFFD signed with prominent local partners such as Qatar Foundation in partnership with the American University of Afghanistan in Qatar, Qatar Charity, Education Above All Foundation, and Qatar Red Crescent. International agreements were signed with the governments of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Sierra Leone, and the announcement of a Memorandum of Understanding with the Republic of Rwanda was made. With Qatar Charity, four agreements were signed targeting 1,307,292 beneficiaries that included a grant agreement for emergency assistance following the flood crisis in the Republic of Niger, a grant agreement to support healthcare services at Bab Al-Hawa Hospital in the Syrian Arab Republic, a grant for Rohingya refugees in the Federation of Malaysia, an agreement for the first response project to emergency cases in the northern parts of the Syrian Arab Republic. With Education Above All Foundation, QFFD signed two agreements targeting more than 15 million children and youth that included a Strategic Framework Agreement and a grant agreement to support a scholarship program for Afghan students. With Qatar Red Crescent, six agreements were signed targeting more than 294,487 beneficiaries, including a grant agreement for emergency support to the White Helmets' new phase for the Syrian Arab Republic, a project agreement to support the cardiac center at Indira Gandhi Children's Hospital in the capital of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Kabul, a grant agreement for humanitarian aid in the Syrian Arab Republic, a grant agreement to support the expansion of the children's playground at the Qatari clinics in Zaatari camp in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, a grant agreement for the "Good Caravan" project for children and adults in the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, and a grant agreement for emergency relief following the fire tragedy at the central local market in the Gabu region in Guinea-Bissau to support affected individuals and meet their basic humanitarian needs. Additionally, an agreement for the temporary hosting of the American University of Afghanistan in Qatar, in collaboration with Qatar Foundation, with the aim of benefitting 73 students, has been signed. For Government-Level memoranda, QFFD has managed to sign a memorandum of understanding regarding the rehabilitation of water networks in three municipalities with Bosnia and Herzegovina that is set to benefit 6,000 beneficiaries, a memorandum of understanding to support the national "Zero-Out-of-School Children" programme in Rwanda to benefit 177,119 child, and a memorandum of understanding in partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security for the African Multiplication Initiative in Sierra Leone to benefit 530,152 beneficiaries. This latest round of agreements reflects the QFFD's ongoing commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and advancing the Qatar National Vision 2030. It also reinforces the State's dedication to sharing its development expertise with vulnerable communities worldwide.


Qatar Tribune
23-07-2025
- Health
- Qatar Tribune
QFFD signs deals worth QR1.92 billion to support humanitarian, development drives across world
QNA Doha Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD) has signed 16 strategic agreements worth QR1.92 billion to support a wide range of humanitarian and development initiatives for more than 17 million individuals worldwide. The signing ceremony was attended by Chairman of the Board of Directors of QFFD HE Sheikh Thani bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Minister of State for International Cooperation and Vice-Chairperson of the Board of Directors of QFFD HE Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Food Security of Sierra Leone Dr. Theresa Tenneh Dick, a number of officials from Bosnia and Herzegovina, representatives of a number of embassies in Qatar, and representatives of United Nations organisations. The signing ceremony marked a major milestone in the State's global efforts to promote sustainable development and humanitarian aid initiatives. Al Misnad said, 'What Qatar is doing today through the Qatar Development Fund is not just an international commitment, but rather a reflection of our deep human values. We believe that investing in people is a real investment, and these agreements represent a concrete step towards building more stable and just societies and changing the lives of millions for the better. Qatar will remain an active partner in the global development process, placing people at the heart of its priorities.' At the ceremony, the Fund signed deals with prominent local partners such as Qatar Foundation in partnership with the American University of Afghanistan in Qatar, Qatar Charity, Education Above All Foundation, and Qatar Red Crescent Society. International agreements were signed with the governments of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Sierra Leone, and the announcement of a memorandum of understanding with Rwanda was made. With Qatar Charity, four agreements were signed targeting 1,307,292 beneficiaries that included a grant agreement for emergency assistance following the flood crisis in the Republic of Niger, a grant agreement to support healthcare services at Bab Al-Hawa Hospital in Syria, a grant for Rohingya refugees in Malaysia, an agreement for the first response project to emergency cases in the northern parts of Syria. With Education Above All Foundation, QFFD signed two agreements targeting more than 15 million children and youth that included a Strategic Framework Agreement and a grant agreement to support a scholarship programme for Afghan students. With Qatar Red Crescent Society, six agreements were signed targeting more than 294,487 beneficiaries, including a grant agreement for emergency support to the White Helmets' new phase for Syria, a project agreement to support the cardiac centre at Indira Gandhi Children's Hospital in the capital of Afghanistan, Kabul, a grant agreement for humanitarian aid in Syria, a grant agreement to support the expansion of the children's playground at the Qatari clinics in Zaatari camp in Jordan, a grant agreement for the 'Good Caravan' project for children and adults in Guyana, and a grant agreement for emergency relief following the fire tragedy at the central local market in the Gabu region in Guinea-Bissau to support affected individuals and meet their basic humanitarian needs. Additionally, an agreement for the temporary hosting of the American University of Afghanistan in Qatar, in collaboration with Qatar Foundation, with the aim of benefitting 73 students, has been signed. For Government-Level memoranda, QFFD has signed a memorandum of understanding regarding the rehabilitation of water networks in three municipalities with Bosnia and Herzegovina that is set to benefit 6,000 beneficiaries, a memorandum of understanding to support the national 'Zero-Out-of-School Children' programme in Rwanda to benefit 177,119 child, and a memorandum of understanding in partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security for the African Multiplication Initiative in Sierra Leone to benefit 530,152 beneficiaries. This latest round of agreements reflects the QFFD's ongoing commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and advancing the Qatar National Vision 2030. It also reinforces the State's dedication to sharing its development expertise with vulnerable communities worldwide.


Web Release
10-06-2025
- General
- Web Release
Qatar Scholarship – Education Above All Program at AUB Celebrates the Graduation of 93 Students
The Qatar Scholarship – Education Above All Program at the American University of Beirut (AUB) marked a significant milestone with the graduation of its final cohort of 93 students. The occasion was celebrated in a graduation and closing ceremony that marked the program's completion and honoring the remarkable achievements of its scholars. The event brought together senior university leadership and faculty members, including Dr. Fadlo Khuri, AUB president, alongside distinguished guests such as His Excellency Sheikh Saud bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani, ambassador of the State of Qatar to Lebanon; Dr. Rima Karami, minister of education and higher education in Lebanon; Acting CEO of the Education Above All Foundation Mohammed Al-Kubaisi; and senior representatives from the Qatar Embassy in Lebanon and the Education Above All Foundation. Launched in 2021, the Qatar Scholarship – EAA Program at AUB was established to expand access to quality higher education for 316 Lebanese, Syrian, and Palestinian students. It provided scholarships to Lebanese youth, as well as Palestinian and Syrian refugees living in Lebanon. In his opening remarks, AUB President Fadlo Khuri highlighted the profound community that grew out of the program, one that extends beyond academics to build meaningful human connections. 'This program was launched as a bridge, an opportunity for bright, determined students to access higher education,' he said. 'You have made it into something more: a vibrant, diverse community at AUB, built on shared challenges, solid friendships, and a sense of belonging that extends far beyond any classroom.' Khuri added, 'Thanks to the support of the Education Above All Foundation and the Qatar Fund for Development, hundreds of students have gained access to a world-class education at AUB, alongside civic engagement, global networks, and the mentorship needed to prosper. This partnership does not just fund education, it changes lives.' His Excellency Sheikh Saud bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani praised the Education Above All Foundation for its pioneering role in empowering youth and promoting inclusive, high-quality education. He acknowledged the vital contribution of the Qatar Fund for Development and the strong collaboration with AUB. 'This initiative reflects the State of Qatar's unwavering commitment to supporting students on their educational journey,' he said. 'It reaffirms our belief in education as the cornerstone of cohesive societies and a key pillar of sustainable development. We are proud to stand with these young people as they build their futures.' Acting CEO of Education Above All Foundation Mohammed Al-Kubaisi emphasized the deeper mission of the program and its lasting impact. 'The Qatar Scholarship Program is not just an academic opportunity; it is a vital source of hope, a catalyst for empowerment, and a springboard for youth to reclaim their futures,' he said. Al-Kubaisi added, 'We have not only supported these students through graduation, but also helped equip them to give back, engage civically, and contribute meaningfully to their communities. We are deeply proud of our graduates and grateful to our partners for ensuring that education continues to be a pillar of hope, justice, and sustainable development.' Dr. Joseph Costantine, director of the scholarship program, reflected on the journey of the past four years, comparing it to a ship that has now reached its harbor. 'This ship, this scholarship, started its maiden voyage in August 2021, when hope in Lebanon was scarce and faith in a bright future was lacking,' he said. 'This scholarship is beyond financial support; it is a belief, a trust, a fuel for potential, connection, and engagement. We are deeply grateful to the State of Qatar, Education Above All Foundation, Qatar Fund for Development, and Qatar Foundation, all of whom made this journey feasible.' A highlight of the ceremony was the ACE Talks Improv Public Speaking Competition, where computer science students Angela Sobhiyeh and Mona Jamal, along with environmental health student Christa Maria Bou Raad, and mechanical engineering student Ghina Sharif, took to the stage with improvised speeches in response to a prompt announced during the ceremony. Angela Sobhiyeh won the competition following a live vote by the guests of honor and audience. As part of the celebration, the program's annual distinction awards were presented to recognize outstanding student achievements. Racha Saad received the Highest GPA Award, while Cecilia Bakalian was honored with the Qatar Connection Engagement Award. The Remarkable Civic Engagement Award was presented to Zeinab Halima for her impactful community involvement. Additionally, Malak Mehrez, Wael Kheil, and Ada Al Kotob were awarded the Scholarship Engagement Award in recognition of their exceptional participation in scholarship-led activities. Attendees were also treated to two captivating musical performances by the Zaki Nassif Music Program at AUB. The ensemble's dynamic and heartfelt renditions added a rich cultural dimension to the event, enchanting the audience and enhancing the celebratory atmosphere. The ceremony concluded with a student procession and a commemorative group photo, capturing the pride and promise of a program that has transformed lives and shaped futures.


Qatar Tribune
02-06-2025
- General
- Qatar Tribune
EAA, AUB celebrate completionof Qatar Scholarship Programme
Tribune News Network Beirut, Lebanon The Education Above All (EAA) Foundation, a global foundation for education and development, with the support of its strategic partner Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD), and in partnership with the American University of Beirut (AUB), celebrated the successful completion of the Qatar Scholarship Programme in Lebanon, culminating in the graduation of 93 students. This final ceremony marked the closing of a transformative initiative that has achieved its mission of empowering marginalised youth through access to high-quality higher education. The graduation ceremony was held in the presence of Ambassador of the State of Qatar to the Republic of Lebanon HE Sheikh Saud bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, along with senior representatives from Education Above All Foundation, and the American University of Beirut. With the graduation of this final cohort, the programme concludes having met its targets and delivered lasting impact. Launched in 2021, the Qatar Scholarship, in partnership with EAA/AUB, aims to provide 316 exceptional students from vulnerable communities in Lebanon, Palestine, and Syria with undergraduate degrees at one of the region's most prestigious institutions. The graduating students represent a diverse cohort of ambitious youth who have overcome significant socioeconomic and political challenges to pursue their academic and personal aspirations. Their achievements reflect the core values of EAA Foundation's Al Fakhoora programme, resilience, excellence, and the transformative power of education. 'The Qatar Scholarship Programme was more than an academic pathway — it was a lifeline, and a platform for youth to reclaim their futures,' said Mohammed Al Kubaisi, acting CEO of Education Above All Foundation. 'We are deeply proud of every graduate, andwethank our strategic partner, the Qatar Fund for Development, and all our partners forensuring that education continues to serve as a pillar of dignity, hope, and sustainable development.' For AUB, this programme reflects our mission: to provide education rooted in excellence, inclusion, and service,' said Dr. Fadlo Khuri, AUB president. 'Thanks to the support of the Education Above All Foundation and the Qatar Fund for Development, hundreds of students have gained access to a world-class education at AUB — alongside civic engagement, global networks, and the mentorship needed to prosper.'


El Fagr
25-05-2025
- Business
- El Fagr
Education Above All Foundation and Tanmeyah Partner to Combat Youth Unemployment in Egypt
Education Above All Foundation and Tanmeyah Partner to Combat Youth Unemployment in Egypt New programme to support 305،000 youth in establishing and expanding small enterprises across key economic sectors. Education Above All Foundation's Silatech programme، in collaboration with Tanmeyah، a subsidiary of EFG Holding، and a leading provider of innovative and integrated financial solutions for small business owners and entrepreneurs، partnered to launch the Youth Self-Employment Initiative to tackle Egypt's youth unemployment crisis. The 3.5-year initiative will economically empower 305،000 young Egyptians by providing access to financing، financial literacy training، and business development support to establish and expand micro and small enterprises across key economic sectors. Egypt's labour market faces significant challenges، with youth unemployment rates remaining high despite government efforts to create 800،000 new jobs annually. Recognising the crucial role of the said enterprises in fostering economic growth، comprising 98% of private businesses، the Youth Self-Employment Initiative aims to bridge the existing financial gap by enhancing financial access and business sustainability for young entrepreneurs. A key component of the initiative is the introduction of a 'Partial Loss Credit Guarantee Facility'، designed to reduce lending risks and expand financing opportunities to underbanked young entrepreneurs. As a result، the number of active youth beneficiaries is projected to grow to 305،000 by the project's completion. To promote sustainability، a specialised green financing product will support businesses in agriculture and renewable energy sectors. Additionally، mobile branches will extend financial services to rural and remote areas، fostering greater financial inclusion. The initiative will also provide financial literacy training through personalised education sessions and digital outreach، equipping youth with essential financial management skills to improve business sustainability and success rates. Hassan Al Mulla، Executive Director of the Silatech programme at Education Above All Foundation emphasized the initiative's transformative potential، saying، 'At Silatech programme، we believe that empowering youth is the cornerstone of prosperous societies. Through this initiative in Egypt، we aim to foster an enabling economic environment that equips young people to overcome challenges and realize their ambitions by improving access to finance and entrepreneurial training. Our vision is to support a new generation of Egyptian entrepreneurs capable of driving economic growth and advancing sustainable development across their nation.' Jinu Johnson، CEO and Managing Director of Tanmeyah، commented، 'At Tanmeyah، we are committed to driving economic growth and fostering entrepreneurship among Egypt's youth. This initiative is a testament to our dedication to providing essential financial services and support to young entrepreneurs، enabling them to build sustainable businesses and contribute to the nation's economic development. By leveraging our expertise and resources، we aim to create lasting impact and empower the next generation of leaders.' Aligned with Egypt's Vision 2030، the Youth Self-Employment Initiative supports national efforts to reduce youth unemployment and promote economic diversification. By integrating green finance solutions، the initiative also contributes to Egypt's climate action goals by encouraging environmentally responsible business practices. Through this strategic partnership، the EAA Foundation's Silatech programme and Tanmeyah reaffirmed their commitment to creating long-term economic opportunities for Egypt's youth، empowering them with the skills and financial tools necessary to build sustainable livelihoods and drive the nation's economic growth.