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Representatives of the Pravasi Co-ordination Committee (PCC), a forum of Indian expatriates, met ambassador Vipul at the embassy in Qatar to discuss key issues affecting the community, a statement said.The PCC delegation was led by chairman Advocate Nizar Kocheri, general convener Mashood V C, co-ordinator Joppachan Thekkekuttu and IT wing chairman Zameel Abdul Wahid.The primary focus of the meeting was the PCC’s proposal for the installation of drug detection systems at major Indian international airports. The PCC believes this measure can significantly reduce the risk of Indian travellers unknowingly carrying prohibited substances, thereby protecting them from the severe legal implications in the Gulf region.Kocheri expressed the committee’s deep concern regarding the rising number of cases where Indian nationals are detained on drug-related charges upon arrival in Gulf countries. He emphasised that, in many cases, individuals are unaware of the contents of their luggage or are inadequately informed about the strict laws governing drug possession in the region.Ambassador Vipul appreciated the PCC’s proactive approach and the importance of the proposal. He assured the delegation that he would forward their recommendations to the relevant authorities in India and provide any support necessary to advocate for their implementation.The PCC also highlighted its ongoing efforts to assist detained Indian expatriates by providing possible aid for their release and expressed gratitude to the envoy for his understanding and support, the statement added.

Qamo Qatar Moms celebrated its 4th anniversary at an event titled Shagun 4.0.Qamo, with around 6,000 members, is a chapter of Universe of Moms (Unimo), founded by Neha Kare Kanabar, and has over 600,000 members worldwide, a statement said.Established by Deepa Jaiswal, Qamo aims to unite mothers in Qatar and foster a close-knit community built on love, mutual support, and respect.Shagun 4.0 saw over 170 attendees and featured a range of activities, performances, games, raffles, prizes and giveaways.In her address, Jaiswal stressed the importance of respecting differences, uplifting one another, and celebrating shared experiences, highlighting how Qamo has grown from a small support group. The administration team, which also comprises Neha Agarwal and Akansha Sabharwal, thanked all participants and supporters, including Beenaa, a statement added.

The rich and vibrant culture and heritage of the Philippines were showcased by the embassy during the 10th anniversary celebration of the Global Public Diplomacy Network (GPDNet) at the Katara – the Cultural Village recently.As an active member of this international network, the Philippines made significant contributions to GPDNet’s “Cultural Festival”.These contributions included participation in the photo exhibition, coin and stamp display, and the Cultural Night of songs and dances.During the Cultural Night on November 8, Qatar-based Filipino performers presented a showcase of Filipino culture, transporting them to the tropical landscapes of the Philippines.The Maharlikans Vocal Ensemble Philippines, students from Philippine School Doha and Philippine International School-Qatar, and the Banyuhay Dance Group Philippines delighted the audience with their songs and dances. The performance highlighted the rich cultural tapestry of the different regions in the Philippines.For the grand finale, a performance of “Pangalay sa Kawayan”, a traditional dance on bamboo poles, elicited cheers and applause from the audience.The embassy congratulated Katara and GPDNet for providing a platform to enhance public appreciation of the diverse cultures present in Qatar and for fostering cultural understanding among both local and expatriate communities in the country.

Senior students of MES Indian School organised the second edition of TEDx on the topic, ’Comedy of Errors: Anatomy of a mistake’.Academics director Ashraf Sharafudheen was the chief guest.Leadership trainer Abdalla Hamdan spoke about the significance of leadership skills and the role they play in shaping a successful future. Social media influencer Dr Muhammed Aflahe Iqbal elaborated on the impact of social media in modern society, providing guidance for responsible usage.Link founder and high school student Abid Mobin Gharatkar shared his journey, inspiring fellow students to pursue their passions.Debate Club secretary Onaissa Rashid stressed the importance of debate and critical thinking, highlighting how these skills foster informed perspectives and confidence.Head scout Faizan Irfan Ahmed spoke on the values of scouting and community service, encouraging students to develop a sense of responsibility and service. Speaking at the closing ceremony, principal Dr Hameeda Kadar commended the efforts of the organising committee.Mesis principal Prameela Kannan, MES senior vice-principal Shihabudheen and Off-Campus Division administrator Manmmadhan Mamabally were present.

A Doha-based Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) is seeking to represent the 2.3mn OFWs globally in the Philippine House of Representatives.Joseph Timothy Rivera, who has been working in Qatar’s real estate sector, has been selected as the fourth nominee of the Advocates & Keepers Organisation of OFWs (AKO OFW) Inc. He will represent the organisation in the party-list system for the Philippines’ national and local mid-term elections, scheduled for May 12, 2025.Rivera took his oath at the Philippine embassy in Doha on September 25, 2024, for the authentication of his Certificate of Nomination and Acceptance (Cona). This document was subsequently filed with the Commission on Elections (Comelec) on October 7, 2024, by Dr Celerino Umandap, the founding chairman and first nominee of the AKO OFW Party-list.In a media statement, Rivera emphasised that his legislative agenda is deeply rooted in his decades of experience as a Filipino expatriate in Qatar. Rivera lauded Qatar’s model for establishing economic zones designed to attract more foreign investment, which in turn generates more local jobs.According to Rivera, his proposed landmark bills are largely inspired by Qatar’s highly effective social, political, civic, and economic policies, which he believes can help build a better Philippines.Key proposals include the digitalisation of all financial transactions with and within the Philippine government, improved tax collection measures, a mandatory fail-proof National ID system, stricter regulations on communications, an emphasis on discipline with heightened fines for misdemeanours and felonies, stronger laws against financial crimes, the establishment of a modern socialised healthcare system, robust cybercrime legislation to combat misinformation and fake news, and a moral recovery programme that criminalises unjust vexation and the use of foul language, including in digital formats.He also emphasised the importance of upgrading the salaries and wages of government officials and civil servants in the Philippines to meet world standards, similar to those in the UK and Singapore. This, he believes, is a necessary step towards eliminating graft and corruption within the government.“If given the opportunity, we will continue to advocate for priority legislation beyond anti-human trafficking and illegal recruitment. Our focus will also include expanding OFW hospitals and hospital wings, establishing housing schemes for OFWs, improving medical care for OFW dependents, enhancing reintegration initiatives for OFWs and former OFWs. This will cover skills training, scholarships for dependents, and no-collateral livelihood programmes,” Rivera pointed out.Rivera pledged to all Filipino expatriates in Qatar that he will remain committed to assisting the Philippine government in providing essential support to Filipino migrant workers, and will also work to enhance AKO OFW’s advocacies aimed at improving the lives and welfare of OFWs globally.AKO OFW now has more than 186,000 active members worldwide with active chapters in almost every province in the Philippines and 44 overseas chapters, including Qatar, added Rivera, who also served as a consultant to the board and special adviser to the director general of the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) for the Middle East. This earned him an award during the ‘Galing Pinas Ecozone Investment Partnership Award 2021’.

Qatari publishing houses participating in the 27th Algiers International Book Fair 2024, held under the slogan "Read to Triumph," have made a prominent and distinguished appearance, showcasing some of the finest literary and intellectual works by authors and creatives from Qatar.Qatar is this year's Guest of Honor at the fair, which runs from November 6 to 16, with the participation of 1,007 publishing houses from 40 Arab and foreign countries.Abdul Karim Saeed Al Humaidi, supervisor of the Qatari Ministry of Culture's pavilion at the fair, told Qatar News Agency (QNA) that the strong Qatari participation reflects the deep cultural ties between Qatar and Algeria. He noted that the pavilion's design draws inspiration from traditional Qatari architecture, highlighting the countrys heritage. The pavilion features a range of Qatari publications, including ministry releases and a comprehensive cultural program with Algeria. The program includes lectures, discussions with Qatari authors and thinkers, a poetry evening, and a live display of Qatari folk arts. A special childrens section is also included with activities tailored to young attendees.Amira Ahmed Al Muhannadi, Director of Katara Publishing House, stressed Katara's commitment to participating in Arab book fairs regularly as an opportunity to introduce its diverse publications.She noted that many of the featured works are award-winning books and novels translated into French and English alongside the original Arabic.Al Muhannadi also commended the significant interest from Algerian visitors in the Qatari pavilion, especially in books that have won the Katara Prize for Arabic Novel.

Qget (Government Engineering College, Thrissur Alumni, Qatar chapter) celebrated Keralolsavam 2024 with an event that captured the spirit of Onam and Kerala’s cultural legacy.The event, marking both Onam and Kerala Piravi, showcased traditional Kerala festivities with grandeur and flair, drawing members and families together in a colourful celebration.The programme commenced with a welcome address by treasurer Varghese Varghese followed by a presidential address by Tomy K V. Formal inauguration was done by lighting a traditional lamp by senior members John E J, Rajan C K, Tomy K V, Dr Gopal H Rao, vice-president, Keralolsavam’s overall co-ordinator and cultural secretary Shahna Zubair in the presence of all management committee members.To the rhythmic beats of Chenda Melam by Melam Doha, the mythical King Mahabali made a grand entry, symbolising the spirit of Onam.The cultural performances included dances by both adults and children, an Onam-themed fashion show by the youngest members, and a medley of songs. A performance by the band Ekkoz and fun games were among the other highlights.Qget general secretary and Keralolsavam executive co-ordinator Gopu Rajasekhar thanked the sponsors, programme co-ordinators, participants and audience whose support was instrumental in the success of the event. The next highlight on Qget calendar is a bowling competition on November 14, a statement added.

The Las Damas de Rizal (LDR) Doha chapter, in collaboration with Aster DMH Qatar and Aster Volunteers and with the support of the Philippine embassy in Doha, hosted a breast cancer and mental health awareness seminar recently.The aim was to educate attendees about critical health issues that predominantly affect women, in addition to fostering a deeper understanding of the intricate relationship between mental health and breast cancer.Vice-Consul Monica Remsy S Calangian attended the event, which marked World Mental Health Day and Breast Cancer Awareness Month in Qatar. In her speech, she underlined the importance of raising public awareness on these health issues, reinforcing a message that resonates not only within the Filipino community but also across broader societal contexts.Dr Rani Susan Abraham from Nexsolve LLC & Eunoia, led a session on mental health awareness, titled ‘Managing Work-Life Balance and Preventing Burnout’. She emphasised the importance of recognising mental health as a vital component of overall well-being.She also explored various strategies for maintaining mental well-being amidst personal and professional challenges, highlighting the necessity of achieving a healthy work-life balance to prevent burnout.Dr Tisha Rachel Jacob (specialist in psychiatry); Dr Lorelyn Dino (Otolaryngologist - ENT) and Dr Hema Rajeev (specialist in obstetrics and gynaecology) participated in a panel discussion moderated by Dr Noemi Formaran, head of the LDR Education Committee. LDR president Dr Anne Binondo cited the significance of the seminar in enhancing health literacy and promoting preventive health measures within communities.The LDR, in partnership with the Knights of Rizal Doha chapter, remains steadfast in its mission, vision, and advocacy efforts to address pressing health issues, a statement added.

Qatar Kerala Muslim Cultural Centre (KMCC) Kasaragod District Committee will host a lecture on ‘Muslim League and Community Organisations: History and Present’ on November 29, delivered by esteemed orator Basheer Vellikoth.The poster for the event was officially unveiled by Sadiq Pakyara, a member of the Muslim League State Council and advisory member of the KMCC Qatar State Committee. The Muslim League has played a pivotal role in the educational and social progress of Kerala’s Muslim community, strengthening communal unity, religious harmony, and promoting the advancement of underrepresented communities.This programme aims to guide the society towards a renewed vision, a statement said.The event was presided by District President Lukman Thalankara. KMCC state vice-president Adam Kunhi Thalangara, district officials Siddique Maniyampara, Nasir Kaitakkad, Shanif Paika, Ali Cherur, Sadiq K C, Media Wing chairman Abdul Rahiman Eriyal and Mandal-Panchayat office-bearers Salam Habibi, Rafiq Mangad, Abid Udinur, Nawaz Mogral, Mansoor Thrikaripur, Abdul Rahiman E K, Rahim Chowki, Naushad Paika and Yusuf Marpane.

Toastmasters Divisions D and G hosted a training session for their members. Thayalan, Christopher and Carla were the trainers. Dennis, Nagila and Akash co-ordinated. Feroz, Babu, Bindu, Zakky and Venu were the role players. Sampath, Philip, Pradeep and district pathway manager Naila were present. The training was organised by division directors Shoba Raj and Smitha.

Qatar Toastmasters Club, part of District 116, celebrated its 27th anniversary at a grand function. President Eman Salameh welcomed the attendees. Sudhir Gujar introduced the meeting’s theme, ‘27’. Past district directors Raghavan N V, Thayalan Kailayapillai and past club leaders Shoaib Kassem, Johnny Abou Zeid, Rajesh Nair and Rukhsana Khan were honoured. Educational module was conducted by Abhishek Chattopadhyay followed by a quiz.

The Government Engineering College, Kozhikode, Qatar alumni chapter (QGECK) announced its new officials. Varun Moorthy K (chairman), Usman C K (general secretary), Shakir Kottaprath (treasurer), Rejila Hashim, Dilba Midlaj, Deepesh, Rameeza Fahim, Ansar P P, Abhishek P, Nivya, Jemshid Gafoor, Arsal and Muhammed Suhail (other officials).

The Facebook page for the inter-collegiate football tournament, Campus League Qatar (CLQ), was launched by Indian Sports Centre advisory chairman Dr Mohan Thomas.The launch event was attended by organising committee convener Shamsu Koduvalli, co-ordinator Faris Loop Media, president Illyas Kenza, general secretary Irshad Chennamangalor, and committee members Nasif Moidu, Abbas Mukkam, Ameen Kodiyathoor, Shameer Chennamangalor, Anand, Afzal Koduvalli and Nishad K. The organisers announced that the tournament, featuring 16 college teams, will take place on November 29 at Hamilton International School Doha.

The Central Indian Association conducted an international chess tournament featuring expatriate players from Russia, Uzbekistan, Europe, Africa, India, Sri Lanka and Pakistan in under-15 and open categories.Advaith Saravanan won the under-15 and Patricio Rolly, the open category. Association president Jai Prakash Singh and vice president Syed Rafi congratulated the winners and thanked the committee members Visa, Mohinder Jalandhary, Reena Danao, Noor Afshan, Jogesh Dewan, Jaweed Bajwa, Sara Ali Khan, Basit Khan, Ravi Babu, Jyothi of Emote Edition, Irfan and Arun for their support.

The Qatar chapter of the Institution of Engineers (India), established in 1991, celebrated 57th Engineer’s Day with the theme, ‘Driving Sustainability with Engineering Solutions Embracing the Latest AI-driven Technologies: A New Industrial Revolution’ and paying tribute to M Visvesvaraya.A number of dignitaries from various walks of life were present. Indian ambassador Vipul was the chief guest.The guest of honours were Ghana ambassador Mohammed N Ismaila, Bangladesh ambassador Md Nazrul Islam, Indonesian embassy’s minister counsellor/head of economic affairs Iwan Mulyatno, Federation of Global Engineers president Ahamed J al-Jolo, QatarEnergy’s Dukhan Facilities maintenance head Abdullah Basharhil, Kahramaa’s Ahmad M A S al-Qubaisi, Oryx Universal College with Liverpool John Moores University’s College of Engineering dean Dr Rafal al-Mufti, dean of business Dr Moheeb Abu Alqumboz, project expert Dr Saoud al-Janahi, strategy expert Dr Mohammed al-Hashmi, Qatar Airways project manager engineer Hamad al-Yafei, QatarEnergy’s senior petroleum engineer Khalid al-Fakhroo, Qatar Indonesia Business Council president Farhan al-Shaikh al-Sayed, Katara’s IT operations head Abdulla Jabor al-Ajji, Global South Organisation UK president Ahmed Dewale Mohammed, Noble International School principal engineer Shibu Abdul Rasheed, IEB president Mohammed, and Indian Business and Professionals Council vice-president Hisham Abdul Rahim.IEI Qatar chapter chairman Abdul Sathar welcomed the gathering. Secretary Abdulzameer presented the activity report and Treasurer Ashik K proposed a vote of thanks.IEI women’s wing conducted an interactive quiz programme on the theme of artificial intelligence.

Doha resident Niyas T M has won the award for the best story in a GCC-wide literary competition conducted by Malayala Sahitya Vedhi/Malayali Writers Forum in the UAE.A designer with Gulf Times, Niyas’ Sugandham Parathunna Ilanjippookkal was the winning entry. The award for the best poem went to Ramachandran Morazha (UAE) and for the best article to Reena Rajan (Kuwait). The jury comprised noted writers P K Parakkadavu, V H Nishad, and T K Unni.The awards will be presented at a ceremony in Dubai during November.

Doha Malayalam Toastmasters Club held a session titled ‘Master Your Public Speaking’. The event featured an educational module, ‘Rules of the Game’ by world champion speaker Nisha Shivram, who shared tips on using voice and body language to enhance public speaking. Club president Mohammad Ajmal, Mohammed Fausi, Ahammad Gulshad, Shalini Lal and Hashim led the event.

Moodadi Panchayat Pravasi Association Qatar (MPPAQ) celebrated Onam with an event titled ‘Members Meet with Onasadhya 2024’. The celebrations began with the traditional floral carpet and the welcoming of the mythical king Mahabali. Spot dubbing by Ismail Nandi and a musical programme organised by the members, added to the festive atmosphere. Following a sumptuous Onam lunch, the meeting was held. President Ismail N K presided and general secretary Shaji Peeves welcomed the gathering. The meeting was inaugurated by digital creator Najeeb Moodadi. MPPAQ chief patron Ashraf K P also spoke at the event. Shihas Babu, Siraj Paloor and the programme sponsor Khalid M P also addressed the gathering. Programme committee chairman Shanahas Edodi proposed a vote of thanks. Anju Nishin was the master of ceremonies.

Qatar Incas Pathanamthitta elected new office-bearers for 2024-2026. President Ronsy Mathai presided at the meeting. General secretary Sibu Abraham presented the annual report and Abey Varghese presented the annual accounts.The new officials are Jiji John (patron), Sunny Samuel (advisory board chairman), Ronsy Mathai (president), Jetty George (general secretary), Joji Thomas Moolayil (treasurer), Philip Kuruvilla (senior vice-president). District Youth Wing office-bearers: Vibin K Baby (president), Lijo Thomas (secretary), Liju Chacko (treasurer). Ladies Wing: Sheela Sunny (president), Asha Jetty (vice-president), Athira Jubin (secretary), Sheeba John (treasurer) and Anuja Robin (programme co-ordinator).

The Asean Federation of Engineering Organisations (Afeo) recently conferred 31 Filipino engineers from diverse disciplines as Asean engineers.The conferment in Doha, organised by the Philippine Technological Council (PTC) – Middle East North Africa Qatar Affairs, was a highlight of the 6th IECEP GCC Convention and 1st Leaders’ Summit, with distinguished guests in attendance.The speakers included Simon Yeong Chin Chow of IEM-Malaysia and head commissioner of the Asean Engineers Registry; Gerhard Tan, Professional Regulatory Commission – Professional Regulatory Board for Electronics Engineering, who officiated the oath of membership; and Romulo Agatep, country registrar for PTC – Manila, who also led the charging of the new inductees with their duties as advanced level engineers.In her speech at the event, Philippine ambassador Lilibeth V Pono said: “Engineers are not just there to help build things but doing the work which is vital in transforming lives, not just of individuals, but of communities and of nation”.Roy L Baquiran, presidential deputy adviser for PTC - Mena Qatar Affairs, led the conferment ceremony. The newly conferred Asean engineers include three civil engineers, 13 electronics engineers, three electrical engineers, 11 mechanical engineers and one chemical engineer.They met the stringent qualifications for the Asean Engineers Registry, which requires a minimum of seven years of post-graduate professional experience and two years of significant engineering works. Becoming part of this prestigious registry not only acknowledges their achievements but also promotes the recognition of Asean Engineers globally, encouraging professional mobility across Asean countries.Afeo, a non-governmental organisation, aims to foster goodwill and mutual understanding among Asean engineers, while establishing a standard for the profession that enhances opportunities for regional collaboration and mobility. The event served as both a recognition of individual accomplishments and a testament to the growing role of Filipino engineers in the global engineering community.