DOHA: The world governing body for motorsport has extended support to road safety in Qatar by highlighting a programme that seeks to raise awareness about safe driving and educate youth on positive road behaviours.
As part of the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) General Assembly in Doha recently, scores passed through the Students for Road Safety driving simulator, positioned next to the Prize Giving Challenge track.
Road safety is fast becoming a global problem, according to FIA, with 1.3 million people losing their lives and 50 million seriously injured annually as a result of accidents.
Captain Riyadh Ahmed Salih, Head, Traffic Awareness Section, Traffic Department, said, “We all have a responsibility to do everything we can to protect our young people.
“The department is proud to partner with Students for Road Safety which is part of One Second National road safety brand. I congratulate the programme on a successful first year, capped off by endorsement by FIA during its General Assembly in Doha.
“The department of the Ministry of Interior remains committed to reducing road injuries in Qatar.”
Students for Road Safety was launched a year ago by programme owners Maersk Oil Qatar and the ministry as part of One Second safety initiative.
This year, almost 1,500 students have benefited from one-to-one coaching on road safety at their school and/or community events led by Students for Road Safety.
The programme targets students aged 12-18 with interactive presentations and coaching by trainers in an immersive driving simulator to imitate Qatar’s roads and driving behaviours.
The ministry also utilises this simulator for awareness programmes.
Sheikh Faisal bin Fahad Al Thani, Deputy Managing Director, Maersk Oil Qatar, said, “The success of the FIA event is another example of the versatility of the Students for Road Safety programme that is focused on changing behaviours among 12 to 18-year-olds.
“We are proud to sponsor Students for Road Safety as part of our ongoing support for programmes that leave a lasting impact on the people. Congratulations to the Traffic Department for its continued focus on reducing road injuries,” he added.The Peninsula
