The Student Housing and Residential Life Department at Qatar University (QU) organized a Ghabga for international students on two separate days—one for female students and one for male students—in collaboration with Al-Aqsa Committee, an external volunteer group. The event saw wide participation from international students.
The event featured a variety of activities organized by the Al-Aqsa Committee, including diverse Ramadan competitions, with prizes distributed to participants. There were also special stations such as an embroidery corner for female students, a henna station, a performance by a male vocal team, and a photography booth.
In her statement, Ms. Kholoud Al-Hamadi, Director of the Student Housing and Residential Life Department at QU, emphasized that the event aimed to enhance communication among international students while introducing them to the religious and cultural values of the country. She added that the initiative also seeks to enrich students' experiences within the residential community by organizing interactive activities for them. She noted, “This event serves as an important opportunity to deepen the sense of belonging and interaction among students of various nationalities, thereby fostering the residential community as a key element of the comprehensive educational experience."
Dr. Mohammad Shahin Al-Kuwari, Associate Vice President for Student Life and Services Office at QU, stated, “In Student Life and Services, we always strive—through the dedicated efforts of our colleagues at the Student Housing and Residential Life Department—to embrace our students and provide an environment where they feel at home, regardless of their backgrounds and countries. This also allows them to learn about Qatari traditions and customs. A student's sense of belonging to their residential community and Qatar University is a cornerstone of their success and ours."
Meanwhile, Heba Safi, a preacher and volunteer with the Al-Aqsa Committee under Al-Ahli Sports Club, noted that during the female students' Ghabga, the volunteer team provided various educational and cultural activities designed to enhance religious and cultural awareness in an engaging and interactive manner. She stated, “We were keen to offer diverse activities for the students, such as the religious and cultural competition, which included valuable information about Ramadan and Al-Aqsa Mosque, aiming to enhance participants' religious and historical awareness in an interesting and interactive way. Additionally, we conducted a traditional Palestinian embroidery workshop, presented by Ms. Rasha Al-Qassas, where students learned different Palestinian embroidery stitches and discovered the distinctive embroidery patterns of each Palestinian city, strengthening their connection to the rich Palestinian heritage."
Commenting on her experience, Sheikha Khalid Al-Jaradi, a student at the College of Pharmacy, shared her thoughts on the “Female Students' Ghabga" event, saying, “My participation today was an exceptional experience in every way. It provided a break from my academic routine and surrounded me with an atmosphere of warmth and camaraderie, making me feel like I was among my second family. Such events are familiar to us in student housing, as we are accustomed to the exceptional activities organized by Ms. Nadin, who always adds joy and renewal to our university life. These moments make student housing more than just a place to stay; it becomes a home filled with unforgettable memories."
Hanaa Mounir, a media student at the College of Arts and Sciences, also expressed her appreciation for such initiatives, stating, “These events are essential for us as international students, especially since we are far from our homes and families. They also provide an opportunity to learn about diverse cultures and Ramadan traditions."