Qatar University’s (QU) Al-Bairaq program, a non-traditional educational project where students at Qatari secondary schools work in teams with highly exquisite university-level scientists, implements an innovative educational curriculum that enables Qatari youth with the needed capabilities to play vital roles in various sectors of the country to serve Qatar National Vision 2030. The programs “problem solving” track has been designed specifically for 3rd and 4th grade students in line with their curriculum. Nine schools within and outside Doha have participated in this track, with a total of 222 students.
Al-Bairaq concluded the 5th cycle of “Problem solving” track, by honoring the participating students with presence from its sponsor Ras Laffan Social Communication Program. The Ras Laffan Social Communication Program manages the impact of operations both real and perceived, which may include impacts such as air quality, health and workforce presence in the community. The vision of the program is to create a respectful and trustworthy partnership between the energy industry and community.
The Ras Laffan Social Communication Program was established in 2009 and focuses on ensuring a two-way engagement process with the community, allowing for collective innovation and decision-making. The program offers support to sustainable initiatives for the benefit of the local community in Al Khor and Northern Areas of Qatar. Ras Laffan Social Communication Program is a joint initiative by six leading energy companies operating in Ras Laffan: Qatar Petroleum, Qatargas, ORYX GTL, Al-Khaleej Gas, Pearl GTL and Dolphin Energy.
QU Section Head of Outreach and Communications and Head of Al Bairaq Dr. Noora Jabor Al-Thani expressed her pride in the fifth cycle of this innovative course, which was developed entirely by the Al-Bairaq team, with the assistance of researchers from Qatar University. She said, “It is really important to consider this age category and reinforce their knowledge with skills that could have a positive impact on the students and develop their critical thinking, which guarantees their success in all areas.” Dr. Noora Jabor Al-Thani thanked Al-Bairaq program partners UNESCO Office in Doha and Qatar National Commission for Education, Culture and Science.