The Center for Empowerment and Care of the Elderly (Ehsan) has announced the launch of the 15th edition of the Zukhr programme for school students, coinciding with the start of the 2024-25 academic year, to foster a culture of respect and care for the elderly among the younger generation.
Sheikha Ahmed al-Harib, acting director of Awareness and Community Outreach at Ehsan, said the Zukhr programme aims to raise awareness among all segments of society on the rights of the elderly, by organising awareness workshops for students in primary, preparatory and secondary schools.
Educators will train students on positive and effective communication skills with the elderly and raise awareness about the best ways to treat them, in accordance with the respect and care they deserve.
Al-Harib explained that the Zukhr programme aims to instill the values and principles of Qatari society in the hearts of school students, training them on the best ways to interact with the elderly in everyday life. She pointed out that the Qatari society is strongly committed to its Arab and Islamic identity. In spite of modern developments in all aspects of life, the society has managed to maintain a balance between authenticity and modernity.
She recalled that since its inception in 2010, the programme has achieved significant success with 261 schools benefiting until its 14th edition. Al-Harib stressed that the elderly represent a great value in society, as they have made lasting contributions and sacrifices throughout their lives. They have also made various accomplishments and helped in pushing their country to the forefront of nations, making Qatar a distinguished player in many fields.
