Qatar Shell recently celebrated the innovative strengths of Qatari secondary and preparatory school students at the grand finale of the NXplorers 2024 programme, under the patronage of the Ministry of Education and Higher Education. The event recognized over 400 students and 22 teachers from 12 schools across Qatar for their groundbreaking projects aimed at addressing societal challenges. Students participated in workshops where they used ‘NXthinking’ to collaboratively work on various social issues. Officials and experts from Qatar’s education and technology sectors attended the ceremony, where 12 teams were shortlisted as finalists and the top four winners were awarded.
The first prize went to students from Zubaida Secondary School for Girls for their project that generates electricity from organic methane gas. The second prize was awarded to students from Smaisma Secondary School for Boys for their project that reduces oil leaks from offshore stations. Qatar Science and Technology School for Boys clinched the third prize for their door-to-door drone service project, while the People’s Choice Award went to students from Michael E. Debakey High School for their aqua filter project. The teachers and facilitators of the programme were also recognized for their efforts in supporting the students.
The NXplorers initiative by Shell aims to empower students with critical thinking, creativity, and complex problem-solving skills, focusing on STEM subjects. The programme encourages students to address global challenges related to food, water, and energy, and invites them to reimagine the world. Implemented under a strategic partnership between Qatar Shell and the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, the NXplorers programme aligns with the human and sustainable development goals of Qatar National Vision 2030.
Maha Zayed Al-Ruwaili, Assistant Undersecretary for Educational Affairs at the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, emphasized the importance of collaboration in enhancing educational outcomes and preparing students for future work and professional life. She commended Qatar Shell for their efforts in establishing a high-quality partnership that benefits the students of Qatar. Rashid Al-Sulaiti, Deputy General Manager at Qatar Shell, highlighted the need to foster STEM abilities in youth to tackle pressing issues of today and the future. He stated that the NXplorers programme educates, mentors, and empowers the future leaders of Qatar to address economic, social, and environmental sustainability challenges.
Shell’s NXplorers programme operates in 20 countries and has positively impacted over 35,000 students globally. The programme fosters a strong partnership between educational institutions and industry, connecting students with peer leaders, instructors, and industry experts who serve as positive role models for STEM education. Through initiatives like NXplorers, Shell and the Ministry of Education and Higher Education in Qatar are working towards building a generation of young innovators equipped with the skills to address complex global challenges and contribute to the country’s knowledge-based economy.
