The Introduction to Genomics (InGen) student programme at Sidra Medicine in Doha, Qatar has welcomed over 400 high school students since its launch in 2023. The programme, led by the Genomic Core team at Sidra Medicine, aims to provide students with hands-on experience in a real-life research environment to help them make informed decisions about their future careers in science and research. In collaboration with Qatar’s Ministry of Education, InGen has attracted 11th and 12th grade students from 35 public and private schools across the country.
Iman Al Azwani, Senior Research Specialist at Sidra Medicine, emphasized the importance of the InGen programme in exposing students to the world of research and science. Students have the opportunity to work alongside researchers and scientists in a Biosafety Level 1 Laboratory dedicated to the programme. Here, they learn both theoretical and practical aspects of genetics, such as DNA extraction, quality checking, and amplification, in a safe and controlled environment. This hands-on experience helps students enhance their understanding of complex genetic processes.
Majida Tamimi, Director of STEAM and Practical Applications Programs at The International School for Medical Science and Engineering, praised the transformative impact of the InGen programme on students. She highlighted the programme’s structured approach, which combines theory and lab work to provide students with invaluable insights that will shape their academic and professional futures. The practical, hands-on experiences offered by InGen have sparked students’ interest in pursuing careers in science and research, opening up new possibilities for them in the field.
Sara Al Shreim, Director of the Curriculum and Learning Resources Department at the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, lauded the successful collaboration between the Ministry and Sidra Medicine on the InGen programme. She noted that the initiative bridges the gap between classroom learning and real-world scientific research, offering students a unique opportunity to engage with cutting-edge technologies in genomics. By fostering a new generation of scientifically literate students, the programme aligns with the Ministry’s vision of preparing students to contribute to the future of healthcare and research in Qatar.
Dr. Sara Tomei, Acting Director of the Integrated Genomic Services Lab at Sidra Medicine, emphasized the importance of sharing InGen’s framework and successes with other institutes. By allowing them to replicate and adapt the student model, more high schoolers can be trained in the field of genomics. This collaboration not only inspires the next generation of young people to consider careers in STEM fields but also supports the Qatar National Vision 2030. By providing students with exposure to real-world research environments and cutting-edge technologies, the InGen programme at Sidra Medicine is helping shape the future of healthcare and research in Qatar.
