Thirty students from Qatar Foundation schools
participated in an enriching educational camp called ‘Discovery and Challenge’ that
focused on developing essential life skills, fostering cultural awareness, and
enhancing teamwork through a variety of activities.

The camp, which took place over three weeks
from 3-17 May, was a collaborative effort between Qatar Foundation’s (QF)
Pre-University Education (PUE), the Internal Security Force (Lekhwiya), the
Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs, and the Qatar Scouts and Guides
Association. It was held at Qatar’s Museum of Islamic Art, providing a unique
chance for learning and exploration.

Abdulmajeed Alhashmi, Government Relations
Coordinator in Student Affairs and Community Engagement at PUE, said: “The
initial launch of the camp was met with positive feedback from our students,
encouraging us to consider making this an annual event.

“The principal aim of our program is to
sharpen the scouting abilities of our young participants and improve their
physical capabilities,” he continued. “The program seeks to deepen their
appreciation for Islamic heritage and history, instilling a profound sense of
pride in our cultural legacy.”

Alhashmi pointed out that the program
responds to the growing need for educational experiences outside conventional
classroom environments, and believes it supports students throughout their
educational endeavors, equipping them with practical skills and real-world
experiences.

“We expect that participants will leave
the program with increased personal responsibility, enhanced physical health,
and a richer connection to their religious values and Islamic heritage,” he
said. “These outcomes are vital as they prepare to engage with the broader
world.”

Ahmed Hamad Al Madahka, a 14-year-old
student at Qatar Academy Al Khor, said: “Participating in the camp was an
enlightening experience that broadened my horizons significantly. I had the
opportunity to learn a variety of new skills – like first aid training, which
equipped me with essential knowledge to help others in emergencies.

“Additionally, the military training taught
me discipline, resilience, and the importance of teamwork in challenging
situations. Also, I had the unique chance to explore Arabic calligraphy,
discovering its beauty and complexity, which enriched my cultural
understanding.”

Saeed Mohammed Al-Nabit, a 12-year-old
student at Qatar Academy Doha (QAD), who has participated in similar camps
before, said his positive experiences made him eager to join this one. “This
camp has been instrumental in teaching me valuable life skills like patience,
self-confidence, and the importance of perseverance. I’ve learned that diligent
effort invariably leads to positive results,” he said.

“During our time at the camp, we also
visited the library to watch a video about Muslim inventions. I was
particularly captivated by this because I have a deep interest in stories and
historical facts. Also, a skill I acquired at this camp was how to extinguish
fires, which was both new and educational for me.”

Continuing, Al-Nabit said: “I highly
recommend this camp to my friends. It provides a rich learning experience in
just a short time. In an age where many students spend their time on unproductive
activities, camps like these offer a chance to learn discipline and gain
meaningful knowledge.”

Another QAD student, Abdullah Faisal
Al-Dosari, who is also 12 years old, said: “Participating in the camp was
a transformative experience for me. It taught me the value of discipline and
the importance of starting my day early, which have significantly enhanced my
productivity and focus.”

“Through the diverse activities and
challenges, I’ve developed new skills and a stronger sense of responsibility.
This experience has not only improved my ability to manage my time effectively
but has also deepened my appreciation for teamwork and community service.”

Al-Dosari also believes he built meaningful
friendships with students from other QF schools, saying: “We shared knowledge
and experiences, enriching our time together and establishing connections that
I believe will continue beyond the camp.”

Source: Press Release