As part of efforts to enhance environmental awareness and engage students in climate change issues, the Office of the Vice President for Research and Graduate Studies at Qatar University (QU), in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, has announced the launch of the Student Teams Competition: Environmental Awareness and Climate Change Campaign—Spring 2025.
This competition aims to encourage students to design and implement innovative awareness campaigns focused on environmental and climate change issues in partnership with representatives from government and industry sectors. The competition is open to students majoring in Marketing, Media, Biological and Environmental Sciences, and Education, offering them an opportunity to gain practical experience in campaign design while working in interdisciplinary teams.
The competition's timeline began with an announcement and faculty engagement phase, where faculty members were invited to integrate the competition into their courses. A guidance workshop was also conducted, featuring an awareness session with ministry representatives who provided insights on the competition's objectives, effective awareness strategies, and ministry priorities.
Currently, students are developing their projects, designing awareness campaigns using various communication tools. By 10 April 2025, the best projects will be shortlisted, with faculty members reviewing and selecting the top projects for the final competition.
The competition will conclude with a judging and awards event at the end of April 2025, where students will present their projects to a panel comprising representatives from the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, industry experts in marketing and media, and faculty members.
Awards include:
- Monetary prizes and internship opportunities at the ministry for the first-place winners.
- Participation certificates for all finalist teams.
- A poster exhibition showcasing the final projects, with additional cash prizes for the top three winners and special recognition for faculty mentors.
Prof. Aiman Erbad, Vice President for Research and Graduate Studies at QU, expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, “We are pleased to collaborate with the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change in finding solutions to climate change challenges that could hinder developmental progress if left unaddressed. Our research today focuses on renewable energy investment and solutions in industry, transportation, and food systems in alignment with sustainable development goals. I congratulate the teams participating in this impactful awareness campaign, which benefits both the local community and the world at large. I wish them all success."
Dr. Ibrahim Al-Maslamani, Assistant Undersecretary for Protection and Natural Reserves at The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MoECC), emphasized the importance of student involvement: “Engaging our youth in environmental and climate change issues is fundamental to building a secure and sustainable future. Through this competition, we aim to inspire creativity and innovation among students while equipping them with the knowledge and tools needed for active participation in environmental protection and resource conservation. Universities serve as excellent platforms for nurturing the next generation and encouraging sustainable lifestyles that address current environmental challenges."
The competition aligns with the ministry's vision of fostering a conscious society that embraces environmental protection and sustainability, encouraging student teams to present practical ideas and initiatives that promote environmental conservation and climate change mitigation.
Dr. Al-Maslamani highlighted the necessity of collective efforts from educational institutions and civil society to achieve environmental goals: “Supporting such initiatives contributes to creating an engaging educational environment and reflects our firm commitment to raising environmental awareness among future generations."
Dr. Mohammad Saif Al-Kuwari, Consultant at MoECC, expressed appreciation for the university's collaboration: “I extend my sincere gratitude to QU for its ongoing and sustainable partnership with the ministry in all scientific and research fields. This collaboration aligns with the 2024–2030 Environmental and Climate Change Strategy, which emphasizes environmental protection, resource conservation, and institutional and community cooperation, supported by an effective regulatory framework and increased public environmental awareness."
He further emphasized that student competitions on environmental awareness and climate action strengthen community engagement, contribute to environmental protection efforts, and promote sustainable behaviors. “Encouraging students to adopt eco-friendly habits and sustainable lifestyles will have a lasting positive impact on both individuals and society."
Ultimately, this initiative seeks to cultivate a culture of sustainability and environmental consciousness among students while fostering creativity and encouraging their active role in positive community change.