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The 20th Annual Sports Meet of Birla Public School (BPS) was held at Al Arabi Sports Club Stadium recently. The chief guest, Indian embassy second secretary Bindu N Nair, declared the meet open. School chairman Gope Shahani, director C V Rappai, management representative Chindhu Antony, acting principal Radhika Rele, non-academics head Vinod Kumar, vice principal Edna Fernandez and other officials were present.The chief guest declared the meet open, lit the torch and handed it over to the school sports captain Jerome Vijo. The torch was passed to various young athletes and sports champions who represented the school at various national and international events, both in India and Qatar.Middle school children showcased the cultural diversity of India through dances. The chief guest gave away the medals and certificates. The meet concluded with the Mars House emerging as champions. The Student Council speaker Tarika Gorle proposed a vote of thanks.

Qatar University’s (QU) Young Scientists Center (YSC) launched the second cycle of its ‘STEM in Sports’ workshop, designed for 10th and 11th grade students in public schools. About 100 students participated in the exercise which aligns with the Qatar National Vision 2030, aiming to enhance students' knowledge and skills in STEM fields while exploring the relationship between technology and sports, especially artificial intelligence (AI).The workshop emphasises hands-on activities; students learn about the latest technologies and can apply them. Students will present AI-based projects to address challenges in the sports field. This project will allow students to combine their theoretical knowledge with practical skills, leading to the development of innovative and practical solutions.One of the highlights of the workshops is that students get the opportunity to learn and apply cutting-edge technology, such as 3D printing, for creating innovative sports equipment. They will visit the YSC lab at QU for practical training on 3D printing. Students are also assigned to design and produce 3D models and PowerPoint presentations, which will be presented in a final event. The goal of the competition is to recognise the most creative and high-quality projects.Prof Noora Jabor al-Thani, YSC director stressed that the workshop is an important step towards achieving Qatar National Vision 2030 and offers students a unique opportunity to develop their passion and skills in STEM fields, especially by using AI tackle sports-related problems."YSC is committed to providing an exceptional educational platform that helps students reach the highest levels of excellence in these vital fields. This commitment enhances their roles as active members and future leaders in society," she added.

The Human Nutrition Department at Qatar University (QU) hosted the final thesis defence presentations for its master's students.The event marked an important milestone in the academic journey of two exceptional students - Haya Abu-Hijleh and Asma Ouagueni - who successfully defended their theses.The event showcased the culmination of months of rigorous research and academic dedication by the students, covering a diverse range of topics in the field of human nutrition, a statement said.Haya Abu-Hijleh's thesis was titled 'The Effect of Curcumin on Inflammation and Oxidative Stress Post Traumatic Brain Injury: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. The main finding of her study was that Curcumin may have the potential to decrease inflammation and oxidative stress after traumatic brain injury. Dr Hiba Bawadi was the supervisor and Dr Maya Bassil, Dr Khalid Bashir and Dr Read al-Zoubi, the committee members.Asma Ouagueni's thesis was titled 'Omega-3 Supplementation in CABG Patients: Impact on ICU Stay and Hospital Stay: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis'. The main finding suggests that administering omega-3 supplements orally before Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting surgery may reduce hospital stay. Dr Hiba Bawadi was the supervisor and Dr Tahra El Obeid, Dr Ghadir Fakhri Jayyousi and Dr Abdulhamid Kerkadi, the committee members."The students' findings hold promise for addressing key challenges and advancing the field. The Human Nutrition Department at QU takes immense pride in the accomplishments of these exceptional students. The successful completion of their master's theses is a testament to their hard work, perseverance, and commitment to academic excellence," the statement added.

Noble International School (NIS) celebrated International Day of Education, highlighting the theme 'Learning for Lasting Peace.' The day's events kicked off with a special assembly. Principal Shibu Abdul Rasheed spoke about the importance of education in fostering tolerance, critical thinking, empathy and other essential qualities for building a peaceful world. A panel discussion focused on various aspects of education and its impact on lasting peace. An essay writing competition and a puzzle game were also conducted among students. The theme of the activities centred around the role of education in building a peaceful world. A special orientation on the topic ‘Methodologies for 21st Century Education’ and a motivational session on the theme ‘Education is everyone’s responsibility' were also arranged for teachers and students, respectively.

Birla Public School (BPS), Doha, secured the second position in the National Level Math Infinity Competition 2024, organised by Aditya World Academy, Mumbai, in association with Birla Institute of Technology and Science, Pilani. Team members and senior secondary students Riaan Jigar Shah, Harsha Kovvuri and Thaigarajan Manickam outperformed 55 other schools in the final rounds, down from 160 in the preliminary stage. The students were trained under the guidance of Shibu P S, head, Department of Mathematics, and Shiju Mathew, co-ordinator of the competition. The school management and acting principal Radhika Rele have congratulated the team.

The kindergarten section of Ideal Indian School (IIS) recently organised a 'Profession Day' to help children learn about the individuals who serve society and how they contribute to the community, society and the nation. The event also aimed to inspire children to dream about their future careers. Many students from various classes participated by dressing up as engineers, doctors, nurses, teachers, bakers, soldiers, scientists, policemen, farmers, astronauts, pilots, tailors and firefighters among others. The 'Profession Day' provided the young learners with valuable insights into each profession, fostering respect for the roles these professionals play in society. The event also encouraged the children to be more sociable, develop communication skills and to find joy in their school environment.

With a primary objective to create awareness against bullying and fostering a safe and inclusive environment, a session was conducted at MES Indian School for the students of Class IV in co-operation with Aman (Protection & Social Rehabilitation Center, Qatar). Amna al-Mahmoud (head, Preparation and Design Department) and Abdul Aziz al-Muhannadi (lecturer, Community Awareness Department) were the resource persons.They enlightened students on the importance of recognising, preventing bullying, and ways to avoid bullying at school. Principal Dr Hameeda Kadar underscored the importance of providing awareness on the behaviour patterns of children and creating a peaceful learning atmosphere on the campus. Teachers Shalima Semeer and Meghna welcomed the gathering and proposed a vote of thanks, respectively. Fashna Abdul Samad, Department of Guidance and Counselling, co-ordinated the event.

MES Indian School organised an interactive in-house training session for the scouts and guides of MES and Mesis. MES principal Dr Hameeda Kadar inaugurated. Ilaya Kumar, leader-trainer from Bharat Scouts was the resource person. The activities included construction of a unit and motto, sign, salute, LH shake, promise, law, compass, sense of direction, pioneering practice, signaling practice, first aid and estimation practical sessions. The officials of Qatar Scouts Association, Ahmed Khamis B al-Yousef (scouts activities consultant), Muna Jumah al-Mansouri (first scout activities expert), Paramjeet Kaur Bhullar (trainer/co-ordinator, expatriate schools) and Mesis principal Prameela Kannan were present. Rajesh K S, overall in-charge of scouts and guides, MES Indian School proposed a vote of thanks.

Three undergraduate students at Georgetown University in Qatar (GU-Q) have been selected as recipients of competitive fellowships offered by the Berkley Centre for Religion, Peace and World Affairs at Georgetown University in Washington, DC.Minahil Mahmud Khan and Michelle Hadebe were awarded the year-long Education and Social Justice Fellowship (ESJ) for 2024. They were selected from among a field of undergraduate students across all Georgetown campuses. Under faculty guidance, they will dedicate three weeks over the summer to field-based research that builds their knowledge about the deep connection between poverty and education.The prestigious ESJ scholarship is awarded annually by the Berkley Centre and the Centre for Social Justice Research, Teaching and Service at Georgetown University in Washington, DC. Undergraduate student research fellows have conducted impactful research projects in 42 countries since the programme’s establishment in 2010."The overall theme this year is post-genocide reconstruction through education and we will be traveling to countries, such as South Africa and Bosnia that have emerged from conflicts and have learned from what they went through. It's an opportunity to explore what happened at the site of social injustice and perhaps play a role in truth and reconciliation,” Khan said.Renee Vongai Mutare, building on her distinction as a 2023 ESJ fellow, has found further success this year by earning a coveted place in the Berkley Centre’s Human Fraternity Fellows Programme. An international economics major at GU-Q with a passion for social justice, Renee will work to identify barriers to inclusivity on campus, determine existing positive initiatives and build solid solutions that could be practiced at GU-Q and other universities across the globe.“As an ESJ fellow, I was taught to pursue social justice in all spaces and that all stories are important and deserve to be heard,” Renee said. “The Human Fraternity Fellows programme builds on this by creating a proposal for students by students, furthering the efforts of inter-religious dialogue and social justice in our different communities.”

The Indian schools in Qatar celebrated the 75th Republic Day of India on a grand scale Friday.At Birla Public School, chairman Gope Shahani unfurled the tricolour in the presence of director C V Rappai, life members of the school, acting principal Radhika Rele, vice principal Edna Fernandez and guests. It was followed by the recital of the Indian national anthem by the school band.Middle School head boy Mokshit Raipuri welcomed the guests. Head girl Ann Liza Shaiju and vice head girl Siddhi Harish Pillai were the masters of ceremony. Patriotic songs and dances were performed. ‘Home of the Brave’, which portrayed the multi-hued cultural heritage of India was staged by the students of the kindergarten section.A short skit, ‘We the People of India’ took the audience down the memory lane of Indian nationalism and the framing of the Constitution. 'Avaraniya Bharatham,' the unstoppable India, a medley dance by the Primary School portrayed the new strong and resilient India. The function which also witnessed the participation of a number of parents concluded with a vote of thanks by Middle School vice head boy Gautham.At MES Indian School, patriotic songs and group dance depicting the cultural integrity and harmony of the country were rendered by students. Senior vice president Dr Najeeb K P hoisted the Indian national flag which was followed by the national anthem rendered by the school choir. Principal Dr Hameeda Kadar also spoke.The entire campus came alive with the spirit of patriotism. School officials, parents, teachers and students witnessed the Republic Day celebration. Teachers Aiswarya Nair and Rizwa Fathima welcomed the gathering and proposed a vote of thanks, respectively. Cultural co-ordinators Anver K and Sumitha Abdul Nasar co-ordinated the event.At MES Indian School, Abu Hamour branch (Mesis), the celebration was marked by patriotic fervour and cultural richness. Treasurer A T Usman and secretary Firos K hoisted the national flag in the presence of principal Pramila Kannan and vice principal Annie Francis. The national anthem followed. Dance performances, musical renditions and theatrical acts reflected the cultural mosaic of the institution.At DPS-Modern Indian School, the kindergarten students dressed in the attires of freedom fighters, welcomed the guests and set the tone for the day. Acting vice president George Thomas hoisted the Indian national flag and the DPS MIS family, infused with pride and patriotism, joined in the rendition of the national anthem.Thomas and principal Asna Nafees spoke. Middle School students paid a poetic tribute to their glorious nation. Dance performances and patriotic songs followed. The programme was anchored by Senior School head boy Krish Nagrani and head girl Drishti Tibrewal. The vote of thanks was proposed by Junior School head girl Swara Vikas Thakare and head boy Reuel David Torcato.At Noble International School, the celebration at Al Wukair campus saw chairman Hussain U and treasurer Shoukath Ali Taj hoisting the tricolour. Academic director Muneer and principal Shibu Abdul Rasheed spoke. The performances by students and teachers enveloped the school in a kaleidoscope of colours. Vice principal (CCA) Shihabudeen Maruthath proposed a vote of thanks.At Podar Pearl School, president Sam Mathew unfurled the Indian national flag and read out the message of the President of India. Shivanya Raveender Singh of Class I presented a speech. School directors, principal, faculty and staff were present.At DPS Monarch International School, the hoisting of the national flag and the rendering of the national anthem were followed by the choir presenting a medley of patriotic songs. Acting vice president George Thomas, Middle School head boy Shaurya Viraj Singh, senior student council member and student chief editor Elizabeth Binu Alapatt and the principal spoke.At Ideal Indian School, principal Shaik Shamim Saheb unfurled the national flag, followed by the national anthem by the choir. Class 8 students Najiya Zainudheen and Samadrita Sarkar spoke in English and Hindi, respectively. The choir rendered patriotic songs. Boy Scouts and Girl Guides were honoured with certificates and medals.Earlier, the ceremony started with a prayer by Khuzaima Kazmi of Class 9. Assistant head girl Shreya Saravanan welcomed the gathering and assistant head boy Gouri Shanker proposed a vote of thanks. Sana Saeed anchored the programme.

Four alumnae from Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar (VCUarts Qatar) have earned spots in Architectural Digest Middle East magazine’s list of top 100 designers who have made an impact in the fields of top design, decor and architecture talent, in the region.Aisha al-Sowaidi (MFA in Design and BFA in Graphic Design from VCUarts Qatar), Maryam al-Homaid (MFA in Design and BFA in Graphic Design from VCUarts Qatar), Rabah Saeid (BFA in Interior Design from VCUarts Qatar) and Shaikha al-Sulaiti (BFA in Interior Design from VCUarts Qatar) are the four graduates who made the cut.As per Architectural Digest’s website, the magazine is part of the Conde Nast portfolio and “is the most trusted voice on design, culture and luxury lifestyle in the region.”Saeid, founder and creative director of Styled Habitat, in Dubai, UAE, said: “I guess back then and having studied in Qatar, for me it was about understanding the context of this region, its history, and how that can inform design true to its culture. I am constantly seeking originality that relishes in the appreciation of genuine character remaining true to context.”Al-Sowaidi, currently the director of Qatar Museums’ Liwan Design Studios and Labs, is a multidisciplinary designer based in Qatar. Her design practice and research explore themes of home, nostalgia, childhood, memory, heritage and Doha’s rapid growth. Al-Sowaidi said she was “honoured to be part of AD Middle East's 2024 AD100 – the ultimate list of today’s top talents in interior decoration, architecture and product design.”Al-Homaid, a faculty member at VCUarts Qatar, is an interdisciplinary artist who uses textile design to creatively depict change and transformation, especially the change associated with a rapidly evolving Qatar. Her eye-catching designs are a “visual snapshot of the nation’s culture, exploring changing dialects, technologies and styles, including typography”.Al-Sulaiti’s work focuses on keeping Qatar’s traditions alive by creating a “more sustainable, ethical luxury movement, and celebrating culture and tradition through design. While playing a key role in the establishment and development of the Doha Design District in Msheireb Downtown Doha, she continues to explore the field of interior design. She is currently working on a modular bench/table concept that will be showcased at Salone del Mobile 2024.

Ideal Indian School (IIS) marked Qatar National Day with a series of activities. Students participated in chat shows, poster designing, bulletin board displays and an exhibition on Qatar Culture. Principal Shaik Shamim Saheb gave the keynote address.

'Idealite 2023', the annual magazine of Ideal Indian School (IIS) was released at a special ceremony. The multilingual publication provides a platform to the budding artists and writers to display their talent and a panoramic view of the cultural, academic, sports, literary activities and achievements of the school. School president Dr Hassan Kunhi M P was the chief guest. The guest of honour, Gulf Times supplements editor Amjad Vanimal, presented the first copy of the magazine to Dr Kunhi and principal Shaik Shamim Saheb. Anwar Sadath, head of the Department of English welcomed the gathering and Lipsy Sabu, assistant headmistress, Boys’ section, proposed a vote of thanks. Ronnie Elizabeth hosted the ceremony.

MES Indian School organised recently a winter camp for Scouts, Guides, Cubs & Bulbuls.Students were divided into three patrol troops and performed exercises. A common session on the history of scouting was delivered by the in-charge teachers Asha V Nair and Rajesh.Fun-filled engaging activities such as memory games and sensory games were conducted in the Junior section. A session of tying ‘Knots’ and ‘First aid’ was demonstrated in each troop. To provide an opportunity to learn new skills, and develop teamwork, co-operation and fun, adventure games were arranged for them at the junior ground.Camp fire was one of the highlights. Cultural programmes were organised by the students troop-wise. They also performed the 'Scout Yell' in troops. Parents were invited to witness the camp fire programme.Muna Jumah al-Mansouri, first scout activities expert; Paramjeet Kaur Bhullar, trainer/co-ordinator Expatriate Schools, MES governing board members and principal Dr Hameeda Kadar were present at the closing ceremony. Asha V Nair welcomed the gathering and Balkees Farsana proposed a vote of thanks. The other in-charge teachers were Ashraf, Blessy Peter, Fency Pathrose, Nizamudheen and Janisha.

A cascade of emotions, heartfelt sentiments and nostalgia permeated the air as the students of Grade XI, staff and management of DPS Modern Indian School organised a farewell and graduation ceremony for the outgoing batch of Grade XII students (2023-24). The school's acting president Yasir Nainar was the chief guest. Principal Asna Nafees also spoke. Grade XI students presented music, dance and dramatics. Head boy Krish Nagrani and head girl Drishti Tibrewal reminisced about their time as students and stressed on the importance of school life in shaping one’s future. A video montage of principal, vice-principals and teachers sharing words of advice and encouragement was the highlight of the day.

Shubham Tejas Mehta, a Grade X student of Birla Public School, won a bronze medal representing Qatar at the prestigious International Junior Science Olympiad (IJSO) 2023. The annual individual and team competition in Natural Sciences is for students under 16. The event held in Thailand from December 1 to 10, saw 304 contestants from 54 countries and territories. The school management and acting principal Radhika Rele congratulated the achiever. He has followed in the footsteps of Aditya Gupta, a BPS student who won a silver medal in IJSO 2019.

Birla Public School's (BPS) kindergarten section celebrated Karate Day with a special assembly. The tiny tots, supported by their instructor Abdul Rahman showcased a special performance with their hand and body movement. They were awarded certificates by vice principal Edna Fernandez and headmistress Josephine Fernandes. The day ended with a power-packed performance by the instructor.

Indian Community Benevolent Forum (ICBF) hosted the Hajikka Memorial Essay Competition closing ceremony at Bhavan’s Public School recently.The annual event, dedicated to the memory of Hajikka, a distinguished social and charitable activist who selflessly served Qatar’s community for over 40 years, aimed to raise awareness about charity and benevolence among Indian students.It also sought to inform students about the services provided by ICBF in Qatar, honour Hajikka’s memory as a humanitarian role model, and to gather new ideas to enhance ICBF’s societal contributions.The welcome speech was delivered by general secretary Varkey Boban, followed by a speech from president Shanavas Bava emphasising Hajikka’s commitment to society and community. The chief guest, Indian embassy first secretary Vaibav Tandale, highlighted the enduring legacy of Hajikka. ICBF advisory chairman S A M Basheer underscored Hajikka’s devotion to ensuring respectful treatment for every departed expatriate, whose body was repatriated.Hajikka’s son, Shaheen, expressed gratitude to ICBF for inviting the family, marking their inaugural attendance at the Hajikka Essay Competition closing ceremony. The Hajikka family was honoured with a memento in remembrance of Hajikka’s legacy. Hajikka’s wife, Suhara, and daughters Shahna, Shajitha and Hafza, shared their sentiments, and also expressed their happiness and pride.The winners were as follows: Senior category - Aisha Manal from Shantiniketan Indian School (first), Souparnika Raj Kumar from MES Indian School (second), Anwita Sekhar from DPS-Modern Indian School (third), Maria Ajay Chemmala from Noble International School and Shamitha Anand from DPS-Modern Indian School (consolation prize). Junior category - Pranavi Thamizharasan from DPS-Modern Indian School (first), Adidev Sajith from Ideal Indian School (second), Rihab Shameer from MES Indian School (third).The consolation prize was shared by Raghav from Bhavan’s Public School and Adarsh Anil from Ideal Indian School.The event was co-ordinated by ICBF vice-president Deepak Shetty, treasurer Kuldeep Kour, secretary Mohamed Kunhi, Youth Wing head Sameer Ahamed, managing committee member Zareena Ahad, Abdul Raoof Kondotty and Shankar Goud.

To commemorate the 75th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and to infuse students with the awareness of equality, fundamental freedoms and justice, MES Indian School observed the Human Rights Day on December 10.A special assembly was conducted under the theme ‘Freedom, Equality, and Justice for All’ to make students understand the ways to improve the physical, social, cultural and spiritual wellbeing of the vulnerable group of people globally. Students delivered speeches and performed a skit highlighting the fundamental freedoms and rights to which every human being is entitled, regardless of nationality, ethnicity, religion, or any other distinction.The class choir presented a song on ‘Human Rights’. The participating students raised their hands symbolically suggesting their stand for the cause of human rights, and displayed placards to spread awareness among students.The school officials spoke on the occasion emphasising the fundamental rights and freedoms that belong to every individual, and underscoring the collective responsibility to uphold and protect these rights. Jency George, Rajesh K S, Kadeeja Beevi and Rajani S N were teachers in-charge of the special assembly.

Last month, students from diverse backgrounds at institutions such as Al Wataniyah International School, Swiss International School, International School of London - Qatar, Doha College, Dukhan English School, Newton International, CIS School and DESS School, all under the umbrella of Irish Dance Arabia school, took part in the Continental Europe & Asia Irish Dancing Championship, Oireachtas 2023 in Dubai.Emma Sedlackova, a Grade 12 student, secured third place in Round 1 of her U18 category, and sixth overall. Equally noteworthy are the achievements of Mateo Leung (first, U11 Boys), Luca Leung (second, U13 Boys), Sawako Ito (second, U13 Girls), Taline El Hajj (ninth, U15 Girls), and Zainab Kraishan (12th, U15 Girls).Some of the younger dancers competed in an International competition for the first time and the achievers are: Tennyson Stuewe (sixth, U6 Girls), Maisie Robertson (eighth, U6 Girls), Lyra Royle (second, U7 Girls), Maddalena Abis (fourth, U7 Girls), Layla Murrin (second, U9 Girls).From the second division, Ailbhe O’Sullivan (first, U13 Girls) and Sarah Janahi (fourth, U17 Girls) are now able to move up to the first division. All dancers achieved many high places in their graded solo performances allowing them to move up to a higher division.Three members of Irish Dance Arabia - Luca Leung, Mateo Leung, and Sawako Ito have qualified for the World Championships in Glasgow next April. Izzy Pattison (U13), Dermott Lynch (U10) and Lawrence Murrin (U5), despite only recently taking up Irish dance, took to the stage in Dubai with great success. All dancers were coached by Rachel Franzen and Tess McGovern at Irish Dance Arabia School, a statement added.