Doha, Qatar – A significant restructuring of the Qatar Scouts and Guides Association (QSGA) has been announced by Minister of Education and Higher Education, HE Lolwah bint Rashid bin Mohammed Al Khater. The decision, made in her capacity as Chairperson of the QSGA Board of Directors, aims to enhance the organization’s operational efficiency and strengthen its role in fostering the scouts movement within the State of Qatar. The changes are effective immediately and signal a renewed focus on youth development and national values.
The new board formation designates Salem Jaber Al Harami as Vice Chairman, Ghanem Abdulrahman Al Kuwari as Commissioner-General, and Susan Zaghmout as Assistant Commissioner-General. Representatives from key governmental bodies and civil society organizations have also been appointed to the board, reflecting a collaborative approach to guiding the association’s future.
Strengthening the Qatar Scouts and Guides Association
The restructuring comes as the QSGA seeks to better align its activities with Qatar National Vision 2030, particularly the pillar focused on human development. According to the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, the changes are intended to streamline decision-making and improve the association’s ability to deliver impactful programs for young people. This includes enhancing leadership training and expanding opportunities for participation in national and international events.
The board’s composition now includes representatives from the Ministry of Sports and Youth, the Qatar Olympic Committee, the Ministry of Interior, the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs, Qatar Museums, and the Qatar Red Crescent Society (QRCS). This diverse representation ensures a broad range of perspectives are considered in the association’s strategic planning. Further appointments from civil society and the Ministry of Education and Higher Education will be made at the Minister’s discretion.
Historical Context and Current Objectives
The scouts movement first took root in Qatar in 1956, and the QSGA has since become a cornerstone of youth development initiatives. The association’s primary mission is to provide comprehensive education and leadership training to children and young people. This is achieved through a variety of activities, including camps, conferences, and participation in regional and global scouting forums.
Beyond traditional scouting skills, the QSGA emphasizes the promotion of crucial values such as citizenship, volunteerism, and a sense of belonging. These values are considered essential for building a strong and cohesive society, and are directly linked to the goals outlined in Qatar National Vision 2030. The association also plays a role in fostering youth empowerment through its programs.
The decision regarding the board also stipulates that the QSGA will have access to premises as determined by the Minister, ensuring adequate facilities for its operations. The remaining provisions of the decision clarify the board’s authorities and functions, aligning them with existing regulations governing the organization. This move towards greater clarity in governance is expected to improve accountability and transparency.
However, the specific impact of these changes on the QSGA’s day-to-day operations remains to be seen. The association will need to navigate the implementation of the new structure while continuing to deliver its core programs and services. Additionally, the selection of further representatives from civil society will be a key factor in shaping the board’s overall direction.
Looking ahead, the QSGA is expected to announce a detailed action plan outlining how it will leverage the new board structure to achieve its strategic objectives. A timeline for the implementation of this plan has not yet been released, but stakeholders will be watching closely for developments. The success of the restructuring will likely be measured by the association’s ability to expand its reach, enhance the quality of its programs, and contribute more effectively to the development of Qatar’s future leaders and promote national service.
The QSGA’s ongoing efforts in character building are vital to Qatar’s long-term social and economic progress.
