Latest news with #MukhayamnaSummerCamp
Qatar Tribune
15-07-2025
- Science
- Qatar Tribune
How QF youth camps shape change-makers of tomorrow
Tribune News Network Doha To mark World Youth Skills Day, Qatar Foundation is illuminating the importance of hands-on learning and real-world experience in shaping future-ready youth. Through its Mukhayamna Summer Camp, running throughout July and August, Qatar Foundation (QF) is creating spaces where young people can explore their passions, build new skills, and grow into confident, capable change-makers as well as lifelong learners, by offering programmes in areas such as Artificial Intelligence, quantum computing, cybersecurity, leadership, business, and sports. With this year's World Youth Skills Day theme being 'Youth empowerment through AI and digital skills,' the Mukhayamna camp – organized by QF's Pre-University Education (PUE) – hosted a five-day course on quantum computing for young people across Qatar. And course leader Dr Saif Al Kuwari, an Associate Professor at QF's Hamad Bin Khalifa University, explained the importance of equipping young people with the skills needed to succeed in a rapidly changing world. 'This camp introduced students to an emerging field of computing that is expected to play a major role in the coming years,' he said. 'It gave them a glimpse into the future of technology and helped them start thinking about how to align their career paths accordingly. 'By engaging with a technology that's set to disrupt nearly every aspect of our lives, students will be better prepared to adapt to it and contribute to its development.' Each day was divided into two main parts – in the morning, students were introduced to the theoretical foundations of the topic, while the afternoon was dedicated to hands-on laboratory activities where they developed their own quantum programmes, before the activities concluded with an interactive competition. Although quantum computing was the focus of the programme, Dr. Al-Kuwari explained that a general sense of curiosity is key for students to thrive in today's world, alongside learning valuable soft skills such as collaboration and leadership that were taught during the programme. 'One of the most amazing moments in this edition of the camp was when some students, having completed the tasks in their assigned labs, began helping their peers with theirs,' he said. Among the participants was 16-year-old Al Maha Academy for Girls student Maryam Alhammadi, who said: 'My computing skills improved, and now I have more information about the topic. The course leader presented the information well, especially for beginners. 'I really enjoyed the practical components of the camp because I'm actually implementing what I'm learning – and putting it into practice. And I liked meeting new people, too. 'I think it's important for young people to learn about computing, and I would definitely do a course like this again.' Meanwhile, Mukhayamna's Leadership Camp for Boys saw boys take part in a series of activities, from sports like swimming, dodgeball, and football to communication and social skills workshops. Abdulrahman Hassen Al Muhannadi, a 15-year-old participant from Qatar Academy Al Khor, part of QF's PUE, spoke about his experience at the camp, saying: 'I've gained so many skills through this camp and made a lot of friends. We even had a lesson on public speaking, which I know will help with my diploma and improve my social skills – something I'll need in the future. 'Social skills and critical thinking are so important today; they're the base of many other skills. They also gave us the opportunity to volunteer to teach a lesson and lead prayers.' The Mukhayamna Summer Camp continues throughout July and August, with the following programmes still on offer: Leadership Camp (Girls): 20-24 July Business Camp: 20-24 July Skills Camp (Boys, 7-13 years): 27 July-11 August Skills Camp (Girls, 7-13 years): 27 July-11 August Skills Camp (Boys and Girls, 5-6 years): 27 July-11 August
Qatar Tribune
07-07-2025
- Sport
- Qatar Tribune
QF celebrates inaugural World Volleyball Day
Tribune News Network Doha To mark the inaugural World Volleyball Day, Qatar Foundation has hosted a series of community-wide activations designed to promote the sport at all levels and foster the development of a vibrant, inclusive local volleyball culture. Starting this year, World Volleyball Day — a global initiative led by the FIVB, the governing body for all volleyball disciplines — will be celebrated annually on July 7. By marking this occasion, Qatar Foundation (QF) is demonstrating its commitment to the FIVB to promote and grow volleyball across Qatar, celebrating the sport in all its forms. Kholoud M Al Ali, Executive Director of Community Engagement and Programming at Qatar Foundation Communication Initiatives, said: 'We're proud to be playing our part in celebrating the first World Volleyball Day, and to mark this global occasion with activities that bring our community together through sports. 'At Qatar Foundation, we believe in the power of sports to unite people, and these events are about more than just volleyball – they're about creating welcoming, inclusive spaces where people of all ages and abilities can come together to learn something new, stay active, build connections – and have fun.' Amna Alkuwari, Chairwoman of the Women's Committee and member of the Board of Directors at Qatar Volleyball Association, said: 'We are proud to collaborate with Qatar Foundation in celebrating World Volleyball Day. This initiative reflects our shared commitment to empowering women and youth through sport. By creating inclusive, engaging volleyball experiences during Ladies Night, we aim to inspire a new generation of athletes and promote the positive impact of physical activity in the community.' QF's celebrations began with two engaging and educational workshops for boys and girls, aimed at introducing children to the sport, raising awareness around the importance of healthy lifestyles, and inspiring a love for active living through volleyball. Held at Awsaj Recreation in Education City as part of Qatar Foundation's (QF) Pre-University Education (PUE) Mukhayamna Summer Camp, the sessions were delivered in collaboration with Top Volleyball and brought together 44 children. QF then hosted a ladies-only volleyball tournament in partnership with Sports Lab, featuring eight teams from across the country. Held at Qatar Academy Doha, the event brought together more than 60 women to celebrate sportsmanship and team spirit. Lebanese student Pia Saliba, 15, from English Modern School, played for QF in the ladies-only tournament. 'I've always loved volleyball – the energy, the teamwork, and the rush you feel on the court,' she said. 'Being part of QF for the past year has truly helped me grow, not just as a player but as a person. The environment is supportive and motivating, and it's pushed me to give my best every time I step on the court.' Speaking about the first-ever World Volleyball Day celebrations, Saliba said, 'It means so much to be part of something bigger than just a team or a game. Being part of the global volleyball family reminds me that the sport connects people from all over the world, and we all share the same passion. 'Celebrating World Volleyball Day feels like being part of a movement that's all about unity, joy, and pushing each other to be better.' Palestinian Sabah Abu Shaweesh, 27, who also plays for QF and took part in the ladies-only tournament, said: 'I've loved volleyball since I was a child – it has always been my favourite sport. 'During my school years, I served as the team captain, which helped me build leadership and team spirit from a young age. Volleyball gave me confidence, discipline, and a deep sense of connection. Joining QF's volleyball community allowed me to continue developing both personally and athletically in a supportive and inclusive environment.' She added, 'It's a great honour to be part of the global volleyball family on this special day. Volleyball is more than just a game –it's a way to unite people from different cultures and backgrounds. Celebrating the first-ever World Volleyball Day makes me proud to be part of a worldwide community that shares the same love and passion for this beautiful sport.' As the World Volleyball Day celebrations continue, QF is teaming up with the Qatar Volleyball Association (QVA) to bring a special volleyball-themed edition of Ladies Night to Education City Stadium on Tuesday, July 8. Open to women and girls aged six and above, the event will feature demonstrations, games, and workshops for all ages and fitness levels, include appearances by QVA players, and empower participants while promoting female participation in sport through inclusive activities. Those interested in being part of Ladies Night are encouraged to pre-register at
