Doha, Qatar – Celebrations for Qatar National Day have been enriched this year by vibrant student performances showcasing Qatari identity and fostering a spirit of unity. Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, attended the musical production “Qatar Jannah” at Education City, a testament to the creative talents of students across Qatar Foundation’s (QF) schools. The event highlighted the nation’s heritage and the importance of education in its continued development.
The performances, which also drew Her Excellency Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, Vice Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, featured scenes inspired by Qatari culture and landmarks within Education City. The culmination of the show was a powerful rendition of “Qatar Jannah,” a song specifically composed to celebrate national cohesion and diversity. These events underscore Qatar’s commitment to preserving its traditions while embracing innovation.
Celebrating Qatari Identity Through Student Production
The “Qatar Jannah” production was a student-led initiative, designed to reflect the values instilled within Qatar Foundation’s Pre-University Education (PUE) system. Abeer Al Khalifa, President of PUE, emphasized the performance’s role in cultivating pride in the nation and a strong sense of belonging among students. This year’s celebrations are particularly significant as Qatar continues to build on its recent successes and looks towards future growth.
According to Al Khalifa, the production went beyond a simple stage show, serving as a valuable learning experience. Students developed confidence, honed their creative expression, and learned the importance of teamwork. The integration of arts, music, language, and history into the performance allowed students to connect their academic learning to real-world applications.
Showcasing Educational Values
The performances actively promoted key educational and national values. A strong emphasis was placed on pride in Qatari heritage, the significance of the Arabic language, and the importance of inclusivity. Students of varying ages and abilities collaborated to create a unified and compelling presentation. This commitment to diversity reflects Qatar’s broader societal values.
Nada Al Korbi, a Qatar History and Islamic Civilization teacher at Academyati, a QF school, noted the profound impact of the experience on her students. She observed their excitement and passion throughout the rehearsal process, witnessing a genuine expression of love for their country. The participation fostered a sense of responsibility and strengthened their self-belief.
The collaborative nature of the production, bringing together students from different schools, also expanded their social circles and exposed them to diverse learning environments. This aligns with Qatar Foundation’s goal of creating a holistic educational ecosystem that prepares students for success in a globalized world. The event also served as a platform to promote Qatar’s culture and traditions.
Parental and Student Perspectives
The positive impact of the performances extended beyond the classroom, resonating with parents as well. Najla Al Kuwari, mother of a student from Tariq Bin Ziad School, expressed her pride in her daughter’s participation and highlighted the development of crucial life skills such as confidence, commitment, and time management. She believes that active participation in national events is essential for fostering a sense of belonging and civic responsibility.
Latifa Al Kuwari, a student performer, shared her joy in celebrating Qatar National Day on stage with her friends. She expressed a feeling of national pride in contributing to a production that showcased her love for her country. This sentiment was echoed by many of the student participants, demonstrating the power of the arts to connect young people with their national identity. The event also highlighted the importance of national celebrations in Qatar.
The success of these student productions underscores the effectiveness of Qatar Foundation’s educational approach in nurturing a generation that is both globally aware and deeply rooted in its national heritage. The focus on experiential learning and collaborative projects appears to be yielding positive results, fostering a sense of community engagement among young Qataris.
The final performance of “Qatar Jannah” is scheduled for Saturday, December 13th, at the Qatar National Convention Centre, with shows at 3pm-4pm and 5pm-6pm. Tickets are available for purchase through the official QF Schools ticketing website. Future events and initiatives aimed at promoting Qatari identity and celebrating national achievements are expected to be announced in the coming months.
