Doha, Qatar, 17 April 2025: Qatar Leadership Academy, part of Qatar Foundation’s (QF) Pre-University Education (PUE), organized its annual Identity and Heritage Day in collaboration with Barzan Holdings. The event reflects the Academy’s ongoing commitment to instilling national values and enhancing students’ cultural awareness.

This year’s event coincided with the Academy’s 20th anniversary, adding special significance to the occasion and marking a key milestone in its journey of nurturing national pride and graduating generations of leaders grounded in their culture and history.

The celebration featured cultural and theatrical performances by students from various QF schools, showcasing the richness of Qatari heritage and the depth of its civilization. It also included interactive heritage booths with contributions from educational and cultural entities, a documentation corner displaying rare photos and archival materials, as well as cultural competitions and traditional games that encouraged community engagement and participation.

Jameel Kateem Al Shammari, Director General of Qatar Leadership Academy, said: “This celebration reflects our commitment to instilling values of belonging and strengthening our students’ connection to their cultural roots. It is a day to renew our pride in our heritage and to honor the founding principles upon which our nation was built, which form the core of our educational vision.”

“At QLA, we believe that national identity is not just a slogan, it is a lived experience that shapes our daily lives. It is reflected in our students’ behavior, their commitment to their faith, their loyalty to their country, and their dedication to their leadership. This approach is an integral part of QF’s vision to develop leaders who are deeply rooted in their identity and open to the world.”

Al Shammari highlighted that this year’s celebration marks the 20th anniversary of the Academy, which was established with the aim of preparing a generation of leaders capable of driving positive change and making meaningful contributions to the nation.

Al Shammari explained that since its establishment in 2005, the Academy has offered a comprehensive educational model that balances academic excellence, leadership development, and the reinforcement of identity and national belonging.

Abdullah Mohammed Majed Al-Ajlan, a Grade 7 student at QLA, emphasized that heritage is the foundation of national identity, connecting generations to their roots and history. He stressed the importance of preserving and passing it on to future generations.

Al-Ajlan affirmed that the school plays a vital role in strengthening students’ national identity. It not only fosters a sense of pride and belonging but also instills a deep sense of responsibility to preserve it.

He added that this approach is also reflected in the strong relationships between students and teachers, built on trust and respect, which contribute to a supportive learning environment where students receive both academic and personal guidance.

Ali Ayed Hamad Al-Qahtani, a Grade 9 student at QLA, said: “What distinguishes QLA is its integration of academic education and military training within a single environment. This approach reinforces the values of discipline and commitment, and equips us to become future leaders.”

Al-Qahtani explained that the Academy takes individual differences among students into account, allowing each one the opportunity to grow according to their abilities without feeling left behind.

“Through daily experiences at the Academy, I’ve gained many skills, the most important being discipline and self-reliance. With every stage I progressed through, I felt my confidence grow. I began facing challenges with determination and making decisions with confidence and responsibility.”

Al-Qahtani concluded by expressing his pride in being part of the Academy: “I’m proud to be part of this educational institution as it marks its 20th anniversary. The Academy’s progress is evident in every aspect, from its facilities to the quality of education. It is a school that never stops evolving and always strives for excellence.”