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The kindergarten (KG) section of MES Indian School organised an event to bring the essence of Ramadan to life for its young students. The event saw enthusiastic participation with the children dressed in traditional attire — girls in hijabs and boys in prayer caps. The highlight of the event was the soulful Azaan, delivered by Adam Ahmad of KG2. Before opening their fast, a 'dua' was made, teaching the children the significance of prayer and gratitude during Ramadan. Following the Azaan, the principal Dr Hameeda Kadar along with the section head, Deepti Rawat distributed dates to the students, allowing them to symbolically break their fast. The children also brought fruits and dates from home, shared them with their classmates and learned the importance of generosity and togetherness during Ramadan.

With an objective to instil a sense of commitment to social welfare and create empathy among young minds, MES Indian School in conjunction with Qatar Charity and the Ministry of Education and Higher Education organised Ramadan Radiance, a charity campaign from February 19-24.This event of caring and giving was initiated on the occasion of the advent of the holy month of Ramadan as a part of the fourth initiative,'Fitra' in ‘My Value Shape My Identity’ project under the title 'Ramadan bag initiative.'An impressive number of students actively participated in the campaign, donating essential items such as sugar, flour, rice, powdered milk, oil, dates, dolls and toys. The school had arranged a designated area as the official collection point. The event was co-ordinated by Arabic and Islamic Studies Department head Usman Mayyeri with the support of teachers in-charge Manasul Ansari, Rajesh K S, Rassia Hamza, Mary Jainsha, Asadullah, and Ashique."This well-executed humanitarian initiative of the school inculcates young students to practice generosity, kindness, and sharing. By taking part in this benevolent gesture, they not only cater for the well-being of the less fortunate but also strengthen their sense of community and compassion," remarked principal, Dr Hameeda Kadar.

The College of Pharmacy at Qatar University (QU) celebrated its 18th annual White Coat Ceremony, a significant milestone that marks the beginning of a transformative journey for the incoming class of pharmacy students. The on-campus event was attended by faculty, staff, parents, and guests.The master of ceremony, Huzaifa al-Ameer, a first professional year student, represented his batch with a speech, followed by MHD Kenan, also a first professional year student, who did a recital from the Holy Qur'an. The White Coat Ceremony is a cherished tradition in pharmacy education that symbolises the transition from the classroom to clinical practice.In a special video message, Aamal Company chairman HE Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim al-Thani, congratulated the students and appreciated the college for its dedication to cultivating highly skilled professional pharmacists. He emphasised the vital role these future pharmacists will play in shaping Qatar’s promising future and reaffirmed his group's commitment to supporting this essential sector.The ceremony included a celebration of Ebn Sina Scholarship Award recipients from different batches, honouring their academic achievements. Aamal Company CEO Rashid al-Mansoori presented the scholarships along with the College of Pharmacy dean Prof Mohamed Izham.The highlight of the ceremony was the official donning of the white coats, symbolising their readiness to take on the challenges of their academic and professional careers.

Birla Public School hosted an art exhibition, 'Kreativ 2025' from February 23 to 27, showcasing diverse artistic talents of more than 100 students from various grades.Principal Dr Anand R Nair inaugurated the event in the presence of non-academic head Vinod Kumar, vice principals Radhika Rele, Edna Fernandez and heads of various sections and departments.The exhibition highlighted a wide range of artistic expressions, from paintings to intricate designs, demonstrating the students' passion and skills in art, sculpture and painting. The displays ranged from crochet to strokes of acrylic to origami.The acrylic paintings and origami 3-D work of Achal Viswam (Grade 7), textured painting by Sharon Mathew (Grade 6), acrylic landscape on canvas by Tanshi Sivaraja (Grade 8), works by the award-winning artist, Aaron Joy Geetha and Asia Book of Records awardee Kashinadh S R, display of traditional Indian Warli art and Madhubani paintings by Gopika Elamurugan (Grade 7), drawings and sketches by sisters Mishika Saksena (Grade 5) and Sayesha Saksena (KG 1), crochet works by Myra Falkey (Grade 5), and acrylic and water colour by award winning artist Shamita Adiga (Grade 9) were among the highlights.The Art Club student representative, Natasha Padman, was the moderator for the ceremony. The Art Department head Siju Thomas proposed a vote of thanks.

Birla Public School hosted an art exhibition, 'Kreativ 2025' from February 23 to 27, showcasing diverse artistic talents of more than 100 students from various grades.Principal Dr Anand R Nair inaugurated the event in the presence of non-academic head Vinod Kumar, vice principals Radhika Rele, Edna Fernandez and heads of various sections and departments.The exhibition highlighted a wide range of artistic expressions, from paintings to intricate designs, demonstrating the students' passion and skills in art, sculpture and painting. The displays ranged from crochet to strokes of acrylic to origami.The acrylic paintings and origami 3-D work of Achal Viswam (Grade 7), textured painting by Sharon Mathew (Grade 6), acrylic landscape on canvas by Tanshi Sivaraja (Grade 8), works by the award-winning artist, Aaron Joy Geetha and Asia Book of Records awardee Kashinadh S R, display of traditional Indian Warli art and Madhubani paintings by Gopika Elamurugan (Grade 7), drawings and sketches by sisters Mishika Saksena (Grade 5) and Sayesha Saksena (KG 1), crochet works by Myra Falkey (Grade 5), and acrylic and water colour by award winning artist Shamita Adiga (Grade 9) were among the highlights.The Art Club student representative, Natasha Padman, was the moderator for the ceremony. The Art Department head Siju Thomas proposed a vote of thanks.

Doha College announced the outstanding achievements of its young musicians at this year’s prestigious Cobis International Music Festival.The first place awards: Lower School Piano – Nicole O; Upper School Classical Voice – Lola F; Lower School Instrumental Solo (Jazz, Rock & Pop) – Aarav T.First runner-up positions: Upper School Piano – Batu A; Battle of the Bands category.“Our students’ commitment, hard work, and genuine love for music have truly paid off. Competing on such a prestigious international stage is an exceptional achievement, and I am immensely proud to see their talent celebrated among some of the world’s best,” said William Morrow, director of music at Doha College.In preparation for the festival, Doha College students actively participate in Music Co-Curricular Activities (CCA). "As one of the three pillars of our holistic education at Doha College, this CCA exemplifies our commitment to nurturing well-rounded students beyond the classroom. Through the Music CCA, students gain enriched musical experiences, learning not only technical skills but also the values of discipline, creativity, and teamwork that are essential for success on both national and international stages," a statement added.

Loyola International School (LIS) hosted its annual sports day 2025, bringing together 920 athletes from both campuses for 72 competitions and drills. The chief guest was E P Abdurahiman, president of Indian Sports Centre and Qatar Indian Association for Sports and Games, and founder president of Indian Pharmacists Association – Qatar. LIS principal Bhavna Sonkamble and managing director Anup Chakravarthy were present. Abdurahiman lit the ceremonial torch and hoisted the school flag. The march past, led by the school’s band squad, was a magnificent display of discipline and co-ordination. The Sports Captain (boys) administered the oath. The official opening of the meet was marked by the release of doves and balloons into the sky. Students from Grades 5-9 presented dance drills.

Qatar University's (QU) health sector hosted the 10th edition of the Annual Interprofessional Education (IPE) Forum for Health Professions Students under the theme, 'Advancing Women’s Health Through Interprofessional Collaboration.'The aim was to strengthen the concept of collaborative practices among various health professions, contributing to the advancement of women's healthcare services and fostering greater integration among health professionals.The keynote address by Dr Sandra L Holmes, director of Nursing at Sidra Medicine, emphasised the importance of interprofessional collaboration in enhancing women’s healthcare services.A key highlight of the forum was the Interprofessional Team Challenge, where student teams developed and presented collaborative care strategies for managing high-risk pre-eclampsia cases, presenting real-world case studies on handling critical conditions through co-ordinated efforts.The event also included a real-life patient experience, presented by Marian Kapiri, CPD evaluation specialist at QU Health. She shared her personal journey of pre-eclampsia, emphasising the crucial role of interprofessional collaboration in patient recovery.In the Interprofessional Debate Challenge, students critically examined the impact of social media on weight stigma and the perception of anti-obesity medications in women’s health. The forum also featured Interprofessional Talks, featuring students from various health professions who shared insights on nursing, pharmacy, respiratory therapy, nutrition, and the broader impact of health professionals beyond traditional clinical settings.Prof Mohamed Ahmedna, associate vice president for Health and Medical Sciences at QU, said: “The excellent programme and strong student participation are responsive to QU Health’s mission to train the next generation of health professionals who can work effectively across disciplines, navigate the complex challenges of healthcare delivery, and ultimately drive positive change in health outcomes through patient-centred care.”Dr Alla El-Awaisi, adviser to the vice president for Health and Medical Sciences and head of the IPE Programme at QU Health, said: "The IPE Forum has grown into a cornerstone event, shaping the future of health by fostering teamwork, innovation, and patient-centred care.”Abdulla Fareed al-Emadi, president of IPESA and student at the College of Medicine at QU, said: "Ten years ago, students from various health colleges across Qatar came together for the first time to explore the power of interprofessional education, and today, I am honoured to lead this exceptional edition of the forum. I would also like to acknowledge the past presidents — Myriam El-Jam, Sawsan al-Mukdad, and Jawaher Baraka — whose leadership and vision have been integral to this event’s success and growth.”

Two Grade VI students from Birla Public School - Ayaan Shihab and Aaron Joy, have designed the Innovative Fire Suppression System for Vehicles (IFSSV), presented at the SIFQ Science India Forum Qatar (SIFQ) Science Exhibition.The IFSSV aims to tackle vehicle fires caused by electrical short circuits, overheating, collisions, fuel leakage or any other environmental reason, a statement said. The system integrates small water sprinklers filled with a fire-retardant liquid.The IFSSV has advanced fire detection sensors that promptly identify the onset of a fire. These sensors are acutely attuned to sudden rise in temperature and smoke detection, particularly in areas susceptible to short circuits.The sprinklers, designed to cover both the vehicle's interior and exterior, dispense a specially formulated, eco-friendly fire-retardant liquid, which is not harmful to humans and animals. This liquid is crafted to suppress fires swiftly without causing water damage to the vehicle’s electronics or interior, ensuring the safety of occupants and the vehicle itself. Also if a fire occur when passengers are absent, the system will automatically send an alarm to the vehicle's owner through a mobile application.The cost efficiency of the IFSSV is another notable aspect, underscoring the project's potential for wide adoption, reflecting a commitment to both safety and affordability. While the system is initially tailored for vehicles, its versatile design holds promise for adaptation in other settings prone to electrical fires, including airplanes and helicopters, the statement added.

The College of Engineering Trivandrum Alumni Association, Qatar Chapter (Cetaaq), in association with Eram Group organised a felicitation function for the 16 engineering students from their alma mater CET, who participated in the Shell Eco-marathon 2025 which took place for the first time in the Middle East at the Lusail International Circuit in Qatar from February 8-12.The team, Folium Eco-Drive, a technical club from CET, was founded in 2023 with a mission to develop innovative and eco-friendly solutions for the future of sustainable transportation. This year, they showcased their cutting-edge energy-efficient vehicle, Lunaris, in the Battery Prototype EV category.The felicitation event began with a welcome address by Cetaaq chairman Jayakrishnan P.Indian Business and Professionals Council (IBPC) president Thaha Muhammed was the chief guest.IBPC vice president engineer Hisham Abdul Raheem and Cetaaq senior member Shaji Abraham offered felicitations. Engineers Forum acting president Salim Abubacker was present.Cetaaq senior members presented appreciation certificates to the visiting students. An interactive session on the learning experiences that were shared by the students, followed. Cetaaq vice chairperson Rukzana Siyad proposed a vote of thanks.

Students of Ideal Indian School enthusiastically participated in Qatar National Sport Day. The department of physical education organised a wide range of sports, games and fitness activities to encourage a culture of regular physical exercise and make sports a way of life. The celebration commenced with a bicycle rally, a skating rally and a walkathon.Principal Shaik Shamim Saheb inaugurated the event by flagging off the bicycle rally, accompanied by heads of all sections.Speaking on the occasion, he highlighted the significance of sports and fitness in ensuring the overall well-being of students. A skating display by the Junior Section, Girls’ Section and Boys’ Section was a highlight. The tiny tots of Kindergarten joined the rally on their scooters. Activities including a circuit run, mass drill, badminton, dodge ball, and basketball followed.The students of the Evening Session presented a mass display of free-hand exercises and took part in football, throw ball, dodge ball, circuit runs and a skating rally. There was a circuit run competition for Kindergarten children. A series of sport events was also organised for the staff members.

Qatar Academy Al Khor (QAK) – part of Qatar Foundation (QF)’s Pre-University Education, organised a charity run in collaboration with Seashore Group.The event aimed to instil values of giving and social responsibility among students while promoting the importance of sports as part of a healthy lifestyle.The event was part of QAK’s preparations for the National Sport Day. It was initiated by Jassim al-Hussaini, a Grade 12 student, and the registration fees collected were allocated to support the construction of a well in a developing country in collaboration with Qatar Charity.The event saw a strong turnout, with 150 students, teachers, and administrators from various QF schools and local schools participating.Participants were honoured, and medals presented in recognition of their efforts. The competition featured various age categories, including children (8–10 years), boys and girls (11–14 years), boys and girls (15–17 years), as well as teachers and administrators.Reflecting on the initiative, al-Husseini, who is in his final year at QAK, shared: “I wanted to leave a positive mark before graduating, and this initiative was my way of doing so. It is designed to encourage students to engage in sports and adopt healthier lifestyles.“The event provided students with an opportunity to foster a sense of participation, contribute to a more active school environment, and inspire them to take part in meaningful sports activities. It also motivates them to launch similar initiatives in the future.”Al-Husseini emphasised that the impact of such initiatives extend beyond the school, as they inspire students to embrace a more active lifestyle and recognise that sports are not just a leisure activity but a way to enhance physical and mental well-being.“Today’s students spend extended hours at home, whether studying or using electronic devices. Initiatives like this encourage them to break this routine and engage in activities that promote physical fitness. Additionally, these experiences allow them to develop valuable skills, such as teamwork, planning, and event management, which contribute to both their academic and personal growth.”He also highlighted that the success of this initiative would not have been possible without the support of the school and said: “When I presented the idea to the school, I received great encouragement and enthusiasm. The administration provided me with full support, enabling me to turn this concept into reality.“This event was an excellent opportunity to prepare students for this year’s National Sports Day celebrations, encouraging them to explore diverse sports activities and engage in new athletic experiences,” al-Husseini added.

Birla Public School distributed the hall tickets to Grade X students preparing for the CBSE Board examinations 2024-2025. The exams begin Saturday.Principal Dr Anand R Nair, vice-principals Radhika Rele, Edna Fernandez and headmistresses of various sections extended their blessings to the students.The ceremony commenced with the school prayer, rendered by Hafsa of Grade X (H). Secondary School headmistress Lissy Mathew delivered the welcome address. The school choir, led by music teacher John, gave a melodious rendition of ‘Go Light the World’.In his address, the principal reminded the students of the significance of the transformative impact of this phase in their academic journey. He also emphasised how their experiences will shape their future. The vice principals provided general instructions for the forthcoming examinations.Student representatives Umesh and Aalia, took the stage to share their experiences at the school and to express their gratitude for the support and guidance by the school faculty, which has not only helped them academically but also shaped their character in ways that will continue to guide them beyond the exams.The hall tickets were handed over to class teachers of the respective classes. Certificates were awarded to the students who stood out in various inter-school events. The event concluded on a note of gratitude by Waahida, the Grade X year co-ordinator.

Qatar Foundation (QF)’s Pre-University Education (PUE) marked National Sport Day with diverse sports activities at Oxygen Park in Education City, uniting students, teachers, and parents. The event emphasised the importance of sports in promoting a healthy lifestyle and honing students’ athletic skills. Aligned with QF’s commitment to student empowerment, students - supported by faculty, staff, and local sports federations - led and organised sports activities. Trained students became sport ambassadors, sharing their expertise with peers, fostering wider participation, and ensuring a lasting impact. Reflecting its commitment to inclusivity, QF offered a fully immersive sports experience, featuring dedicated activities for people with disabilities. Its Ability Friendly Programme showcased football, basketball, and kickboxing. Renad Academy part of QF’s PUE – provided a sensory unit for individuals with autism, and Warif Academy, Qatar’s first public school dedicated to serving students with severe and multiple disabilities, in partnership with Ministry of Education and Higher Education, and QF, introduced interactive sports stations. Sonia Mohammed, a sports and physical education teacher at Warif Academy, reflected on the event: “Our participation was part of QF’s inclusive sports initiative for individuals with disabilities in schools. We carefully selected activities like sitting volleyball, boccia, bowling, and bean bag toss, ensuring all students, regardless of ability, could engage and enjoy the experience.” “Seeing the students’ joy was the highlight of the day. Many rarely get the chance to participate in recreational activities, but now they were fully engaged. One student in a wheelchair was still able to take part in multiple games, which gave him a sense of inclusion and excitement. “Watching parents play alongside their children, sharing their happiness, and supporting them throughout the event was incredibly moving. It reinforced how sports can strengthen family bonds and create a true sense of belonging.” Sonia expressed gratitude for QF’s commitment to inclusivity, highlighting its efforts to ensure that all children, regardless of ability, can participate, learn, and grow with confidence. The event showcased the exceptional involvement of Stadium Falcons, a programme launched by the Ministry of Interior to train students in stadium security. Participants completed specialised training and earned certification to ensure the safety of sporting events. Their role in this year’s National Sport Day allowed them to reinforce their expertise and showcase the programme’s role in building competencies and enhancing skills. Khalid Raed al-Helal, one of the students participating in the Stadium Falcons programme, expressed gratitude for the experience, saying: “Being part of this programme changed my perspective on sports. It taught me the value of discipline and responsibility, it wasn’t just training but a real-world opportunity to apply my skills in a professional setting.” Al-Helal expressed pride in his role in ensuring the safety of National Sport Day events at Education City. He emphasised that the responsibility required a high level of focus and attention to detail to create a secure and inclusive sporting environment for all attendees. “This experience boosted my confidence and reinforced the importance of teamwork and quick decision-making in dynamic situations. I look forward to further developing my skills in this field and hope to continue contributing to similar initiatives in the future.” Yasmin Mahmoud, who attended the event with her son, praised the event’s organisation and diversity. She said: “The National Sports Day at Education City has become a cherished annual tradition for our family. We make it a point to attend because it offers a well-organised and engaging sports environment that caters to all ages and interests.” Mahmoud highlighted the event’s wide range of sports activities, which allow both children and adults to explore different athletic experiences, from recreational games to more advanced challenges. She also emphasised that the family-friendly atmosphere and strong community engagement make the day truly special, blending fun with learning and inspiring participants to adopt a more active lifestyle. “I actively take part in National Sport Day activities, where people come together in the spirit of health and well-being. It strengthens the bond between children and their families, offering a valuable opportunity to connect with their passion for sports and active living.”

Tamil Literary Club of Birla Public School celebrated Tamil Language Day.The event was organised by the Department of Tamil. The celebrations began with a symbolic song ‘Tamil Thaai Vaazhthu’ (homage to Tamil language and culture).Finola, a student of Grade VI, welcomed the gathering. Aditi (Grade VII) spoke on the significance and history of the Tamil language, as well as the observance of Thiruvalluvar Day and Pongal.The focus was on the rich Tamil culture and the harvest season celebrated with joy across Tamil Nadu. Various cultural events were staged as part of the celebration: Bharatanatyam, group song, and a skit depicting the cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu.In his address, principal Dr Anand R Nair emphasised the importance of taking pride in one’s rich cultural history. He urged the audience to honour and preserve their heritage, recognising that it is through understanding and celebrating the cultural roots that we build a stronger connection to the world around us.The celebrations concluded with a vote of thanks, proposed by Kaniyamuthan (Grade VI). The Department of Tamil head Krishnamoorthy and teachers Renganayaki and Vidhya conducted the event. Vice principals Radhika Rele and Edna Fernandez, and other officials were present.

MES Indian School student Fathima Abdul Gafoor (Class V) won third prize for a video she made on the theme, ‘United by Unique’ in a competition organised by the Qatar Cancer Society in observance of World Cancer Day. The competition aimed to raise awareness and educate students about cancer prevention and early detection.

Podar Pearl School (PPS) recently hosted the Podar Pearl Family Quiz, in collaboration with EduAce Services, for both students and their parents.The event was conducted in junior and senior categories. Principal Dr Maneesh Mangal welcomed the gathering. The quiz show was moderated by Gaurava Yadav, founder and CEO of EduAce Services, and founder and moderator of the Indian Principal’s Network.PPS vice president Dr Steffy Rachel Sam, and other members of the Board of Directors were present. The winners: Junior - First: Shabeer Ali, Fatimah Mayesha (Al Meshaf Campus); first runner-up: Aleemuddin Mohammed, Afzaluddin (Al Meshaf Campus); second runner-up: Chaitra S A, Siddarth Vijith (West Bay Campus).Senior - First: Fahad Shaikh, Aaliya Fahad (Al Meshaf Campus); first runner-up: Rashed Abdul Aala, Mahin Saeed (Al Meshaf Campus); second runner-up: Shabana Saravanan, Shasaran (West Bay Campus).

MES Indian School principal Dr Hameeda Kadar and students Ali Faiyaz Ahmed Ansari, Jiya Jayaprakash, Muhammed Rehaan and Rayan Majeed were honoured by the Ministry of Education and Higher Education at the ‘Proud of You’ event recently for exceptional talents and milestone achievements.In the School Leader category, Dr Kadar, was honoured at the felicitation ceremony with the Global Educator award in recognition of her commendable service in promoting academic excellence and remarkable contributions to the field of education.Ali Faiyaz Ahmed Ansari and Jiya Jayaprakash were honoured for excelling in Class XII CBSE Examination 2023-24 and emerging as school toppers in their academic credentials. In the Sports and Cultural Category, Muhammed Rehaan was presented with an award for representing Qatar in the World Mind Sports Championship held in Dubai. Rayan Majeed was felicitated with an award for his outstanding achievement as a young entrepreneur.

The hall ticket ceremony for Grade XII students at Birla Public School (BPS) was held recently. The students received blessings and words of motivation from the school leadership, reinforcing their confidence and determination. Directors Dr Mohan Thomas, C V Rappai and Lukose K Chacko, management representative Chindhu Antony, principal Dr Anand R Nair, vice-principals Radhika Rele and Edna Fernandez, as well as heads of various sections and departments were present. Dr Thomas urged the students to gather inspiration from the lives of great personalities who never gave up at times, but moved on, drawing strength from failures and asked them to spread fragrance like sandalwood. Rappai blessed the students by stating: “May your hard work bear fruit, and may you succeed with grace and dignity.” Chacko reiterated the need to have healthy food and good rest along with the preparation of exams. The ceremony’s highlight was the formal handing over of the hall ticket folder, which symbolises the students’ readiness for their upcoming board examinations. The dignitaries lit candles, passing the flame to the academic heads, who then passed it to the teachers, and finally to the students. As a token of appreciation and motivation, students were presented with mementos, commemorating their academic journey with BPS. Department of Physics head Beena Devarajan proposed a vote of thanks.

To cultivate leadership and foster responsibility, the evening shift of MES Indian School organised the Investiture Ceremony 2025.Principal Dr Hameeda Kadar was the chief guest, along with senior vice principal Shihabudeen Pulath.Badges and sashes were distributed to the newly elected student leaders, followed by the handing over of house flags. School leader Hami Rahman P S led the oath-taking ceremony. In her keynote address, the principal congratulated the student leaders and highlighted the essence of leadership as a journey of perseverance, humility, and dedication. The senior vice principal urged the young leaders to embrace their roles with earnestness and to serve as role models. The event culminated with a vote of thanks by the student editor, Niranjana. The proceedings were co-ordinated by overall in charge Sijila Das with the support of teachers Shabreena Hyder and Jeevan P.