Latest news with #QatarFoundation
Qatar Tribune
7 hours ago
- Science
- Qatar Tribune
‘QF's inclusive education framework benefits students in and out of class'
Tribune News Network Doha Within the unique learning environment of Qatar Foundation (QF), its landscape of pre-university education breaks new ground in meeting the diverse needs of all students, including those facing learning challenges, but also those who demonstrate advanced abilities. Through carefully designed curricula, specialised programmes, and integrated support from its support services department The Learning Center, Qatar Foundation's Pre-University Education division aims to empower every studentto discover their potential and thrive 'QF has played a huge role in my growth, both in and out of the classroom,' said Amina Yasser Ahmed, a student at QF's Qatar Academy for Science and Technology (QAST), – where she was President of its Model United Nations club – and a high academic achiever. 'Academically, the rigorous curriculum, access to advanced courses, and encouragement to take on challenges helped me push my limits and strive for excellence. 'Personally, QF's diverse and inclusive environment exposed me to a wide range of cultures and perspectives, which helped me become more open-minded, empathetic, and confident in expressing myself. It also gave me the space to explore my interests, like medicine and scientific research.' Ahmed, who had the opportunity to experience research at QF's Sidra Medicine and Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI), part of QF's Hamad Bin Khalifa University, explained that her school offered strong support throughout her research journey. 'The guidance and the flexibility of my teachers and staff helped me balance my academic workload with research responsibilities,' she said. 'QF creates a learning environment that values every student's unique strength. This inclusive and supportive culture helped all of us feel valued, regardless of ouracademic path strengths, and taught us to respect and celebrate each other's contributions.' Reem Jamal S. Al Kaabi, a public speaker, young entrepreneur, and student at QF's Qatar Academy for Science and Technology (QAST), said, 'As a student leader, I was given opportunities to lead people who shared my passion and ambition to make a difference. The QF environment encourages ambition and gives young people the space to express themselves and take action.' Al Kaabi said this helped her apply what she learned in the classroom to real life, whether through establishing student initiatives like the Medicine Club at Education City High School – which is comprised of three QF schools: QAST, Qatar Academy Doha, and Qatar Academy Sidra – or speaking at conferences such as KidZania Zummit 2025. 'As part of QAST's inclusive school environment, I felt understood as a person, not just an outstanding student,' she explained. 'I was surrounded by peers and teachers who celebrated differences, not just excellence, and this allowed me to thrive without having to 'fit in'.' Al Kaabi, who represented Qatar at the First Gulf Forum for Gifted Students 2024 in Kuwait with the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, explained: 'QAST has always encouraged me to think outside the box and see the true value of what I do. Our school-based initiatives have helped me develop essential workplaceskills, including public speaking.' Saifuddin Aftab, a teacher and STEM coordinator at QAST, relies on a holistic approach to teaching, which guides his teaching and interactions with students in the classroom. For him, it all begins with building strong relationships, understanding students' needs, and ensuring they feel safe and comfortable. 'I leverage my academic expertise to provide appropriate learning challenges, using individualised strategies that enable each student to understand the content and make progress,' he said. 'I also ensure that students are assigned according to their needs, allowing them todevelop at their own pace.'
Qatar Tribune
4 days ago
- General
- Qatar Tribune
Sheikha Moza attends QF schools commencement ceremony
Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, attended the Qatar Foundation Schools Commencement Ceremony, which celebrated the achievements of 300 graduates from seven schools within the organization's unique ecosystem of education. Her Excellency Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, Vice Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, was also in attendance at the ceremony at Qatar National Convention Centre, together with ministers, diplomats, teachers, faculty members, and the families of graduating students. (TNN)
Qatar Tribune
4 days ago
- General
- Qatar Tribune
Personal growth, identity, self-discovery: How QF shapes its graduates
Tribune News Network Doha Qatar Foundation (QF) celebrated the graduation of 300 students during the Qatar Foundation Schools Commencement Ceremony 2025. Among them were Zainab Jassim Al Maraghi and Nasser Khalid Al Khater from Qatar Academy Al Wakra (QAW), who reflected on 14 years of learning in an environment that nurtured personal growth, identity, and self-discovery. While Zainab spoke of her journey from childhood to when she graduated, Nasser shared how his sense of responsibility and self-awareness evolved over time. Both emphasized that their experience at QAW, a school under QF's Pre-University Education (PUE), was a pivotal chapter in their lives, one that shaped their skills, ambitions, and confidence. Over the years, Al Maraghi experienced a comprehensive education that left a lasting impact on her character and worldview. What began with timid steps grew into a confident stride grounded in self-awareness and maturity. 'It still feels surreal,' she said. 'These 14 years weren't just about school, they were a life journey. I arrived as a child who couldn't write her name, and today I leave with a stronger, more self-aware version of myself. This place didn't just educate me, it raised me. Every corner holds a piece of who I've become.' She recalled starting off shy and uncertain: 'I struggled to find my place in a big world. Today, I'm able to express my thoughts, take initiative, and lead with confidence while also listening openly to others.' Reflecting on her first and last days at school, she said: 'On my first day, I was overwhelmed by the unknown. On my last, I walked away from the same place carrying stories, lessons, and a more grounded self. What truly changed wasn't just time, it was me.' Her journey at QAW illustrates the impact of QF's learning environment, which went beyond academics to support self-growth, leadership, and confidence. For Al Khater, the school was more than a place of learning, it was a 14-year journey that shaped his values, broadened his outlook, and helped him define his identity and purpose. 'Leaving a place that's been part of my life for so long isn't easy,' he said. 'Every corner of the school holds a memory, and every day added something to who I am. Now, as I begin a new chapter, I feel both anticipation and deep gratitude for an unforgettable journey.' Reflecting on his early years, he said, 'I was quiet and hesitant to engage in activities. But that changed over time, I began to see the value of being involved, took on responsibility, and started setting clear goals.' He credits this shift to the supportive environment at QAW. 'It wasn't just the curriculum that helped me grow, it was how we were treated. With trust, encouragement, and belief in our potential. My teachers, peers, and family were all part of that growth.' He also highlighted the role of extracurricular activities. 'Qatar Foundation gave me a foundation that extends far beyond graduation. I aim to continue my education through university, a master's, and eventually a PhD. My time here taught me that ambition has no limits when you're in a place that believes in you.'
Qatar Tribune
5 days ago
- Health
- Qatar Tribune
Sidra Medicine first hospital in ME to successfully perform Intraventricular Baclofen Therapy
Tribune News Network Doha Sidra Medicine, a member of Qatar Foundation, is the first hospital in the Middle East to successfully perform two Intraventricular Baclofen Therapies. The milestone highlights Sidra Medicine's commitment to pioneering advanced neurosurgical treatments for children and young people with severe movement disorders. The procedure was performed on two young people with Dystonia. Dystonia is a neurological condition that causes uncontrolled muscle contractions. Following the procedure at Sidra Medicine, both adolescents experienced a remarkable improvement in their condition, demonstrating the effectiveness of this innovative therapy. Dr. Ian Pople, chief of Neurosurgery at Sidra Medicine, who led the procedure and emphasised its significance, said: 'The neurosurgery performed on both patients was highly successful. Unlike traditional intrathecal Baclofen therapy, which delivers the drug into the spinal fluid via a pump in the lower back, the intraventricular approach administers the medication directly into the brain's ventricles, allowing for more effective treatment of severe dystonia affecting the entire body. This approach underscores the importance of integrating neurosurgical precision with rehabilitation, ensuring patients receive the most advanced care available.' Innovative Treatment Approach Intraventricular Baclofen Therapy begins with the placement of a ventricular reservoir to allow for a trial of Baclofen therapy. This minimally invasive procedure is performed in the operating room using neuronavigational equipment, and the patient stays overnight for monitoring. Once the surgical site has healed, the patient undergoes a three-day trial in the neurosurgical ward, where an external pump delivers Baclofen similarly to the fully implanted device. Regular assessments help determine the patient's response to the medication. If the trial is successful, a permanent Baclofen pump is implanted to provide continuous therapy. The dosage is gradually adjusted to optimise symptom control, significantly improving the patient's quality of life. Qatar's First Paediatric Movement Disorders Clinic Sidra Medicine features Qatar's first paediatric-focused Movement Disorders Clinic, offering advanced care for children and young people with spasticity (uncontrollable muscle stiffness) and dystonia. The clinic takes a multidisciplinary approach, with specialists in rehabilitation medicine, neurology, neurosurgery, and therapy. It provides surgical and non-surgical interventions for patients who have not responded to medications and conventional therapy. The clinic is a key part of Sidra Medicine's commitment to pioneering pediatric neurology care. Adam's Journey: A Life Transformed Adam was one of the young patients who underwent the groundbreaking Intraventricular Baclofen Therapies at Sidra Medicine. Speaking about the impact of the treatment, Adam's mother said, 'Before the surgery, Adam's condition affected nearly every part of his day. His limbs moved constantly, making it difficult for him to concentrate, rest, or participate in school like other children his age. 'After his surgery at Sidra Medicine and thanks to the Movement Disorders Clinic, Adam's movements began to settle, and he gained a level of control we had not seen in years. These small improvements transformed how he interacts with the world. It has brought hope back into our home, and I truly believe this procedure and the supporting rehabilitative support can help many more children like Adam.' Comprehensive Neurosurgical Care at Sidra Medicine Sidra Medicine's Neurosurgery Department specialises in treating a wide range of neurological conditions, including hydrocephalus, congenital abnormalities, brain and spinal tumours, epilepsy, craniofacial disorders, and spinal conditions. The hospital's use of cutting-edge technology, combined with a patient-centred approach, ensures that children receive world-class care tailored to their individual needs. For international inquiries about Sidra Medicine's Neurosurgery services, contact
Qatar Tribune
6 days ago
- Health
- Qatar Tribune
Sidra Medicine becomes first hospital in Middle East to successfully perform Intraventricular Baclofen Therapy
DOHA: Sidra Medicine, a member of Qatar Foundation, is the first hospital in the Middle East to successfully perform two Intraventricular Baclofen Therapies. The milestone highlights Sidra Medicine's commitment to pioneering advanced neurosurgical treatments for children and young people with severe movement disorders. The procedure was performed on two young people with Dystonia. Dystonia is a neurological condition that causes uncontrolled muscle contractions. Following the procedure at Sidra Medicine, both adolescents experienced a remarkable improvement in their condition, demonstrating the effectiveness of this innovative therapy. Dr Ian Pople, Chief of Neurosurgery at Sidra Medicine, who led the procedure and emphasized its significance said: "The neurosurgery performed on both patients was highly successful. Unlike traditional intrathecal Baclofen therapy, which delivers the drug into the spinal fluid via a pump in the lower back, the intraventricular approach administers the medication directly into the brain's ventricles, allowing for more effective treatment of severe dystonia affecting the entire body. This approach underscores the importance of integrating neurosurgical precision with rehabilitation, ensuring patients receive the most advanced care available." Intraventricular Baclofen Therapy begins with the placement of a ventricular reservoir to allow for a trial of Baclofen therapy. This minimally invasive procedure is performed in the operating room using neuronavigational equipment, and the patient stays overnight for monitoring. Once the surgical site has healed, the patient undergoes a three-day trial in the neurosurgical ward, where an external pump delivers Baclofen similarly to the fully implanted device. Regular assessments help determine the patient's response to the medication. If the trial is successful, a permanent Baclofen pump is implanted to provide continuous therapy. The dosage is gradually adjusted to optimize symptom control, significantly improving the patient's quality of life. Sidra Medicine features Qatar's first pediatric-focused Movement Disorders Clinic, offering advanced care for children and young people with spasticity (uncontrollable muscle stiffness) and dystonia. The clinic takes a multidisciplinary approach, with specialists in rehabilitation medicine, neurology, neurosurgery, and therapy. It provides surgical and non-surgical interventions for patients who have not responded to medications and conventional therapy. The clinic is a key part of Sidra Medicine's commitment to pioneering pediatric neurology care. Adam was one of the young patients who underwent the groundbreaking Intraventricular Baclofen Therapies at Sidra Medicine. Speaking about the impact of the treatment, Adam's mother said: "Before the surgery, Adam's condition affected nearly every part of his limbs moved constantly, making it difficult for him to concentrate, rest, or participate in school like other children his age." "After his surgery at Sidra Medicine and thanks to the Movement Disorders Clinic, Adam's movements began to settle, and he gained a level of control we had not seen in years. These small improvements transformed how he interacts with the world. It has brought hope back into our home, and I truly believe this procedure and the supporting rehabilitative support can help many more children like Adam," she added. Sidra Medicine's Neurosurgery Department specializes in treating a wide range of neurological conditions, including hydrocephalus, congenital abnormalities, brain and spinal tumors, epilepsy, craniofacial disorders, and spinal conditions. The hospital's use of cutting-edge technology, combined with a patient-centered approach, ensures that children receive world-class care tailored to their individual needs.
