Photos by (Mahmoud Elmazaty | The Peninsula)
Doha, Qatar: Families in Qatar flocked to the Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC) on Monday as the Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MoEHE) launched its annual Back to School event, combining fun and learning experiences for students and their families.
The two-day event, running until Tuesday, August 26, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., features a wide range of activities designed to prepare students for the new academic year.
At the main stage, children enjoyed live storytelling, competitions, and interactive science shows that refreshed their knowledge in engaging ways.
Participants also received awards and gifts to motivate and encourage them ahead of the school season.
Workshops added another dimension to the event, with art activities such as painting, drawing, and sand art, guided by staff members from the organizing team.
KidZania hosted a radio station spot, offering interviews with students and parents, as well as awareness activities focused on health and medical safety.
Mowasalat also participated with electronic games, competitions, and virtual reality experiences that took children on interactive journeys combining learning and entertainment.
The Training and Development Center conducted specialized workshops for school leaders, teachers, students, and parents.
Another highlight was the Teachers’ Projects exhibition, which presented outcomes from the Innovation Leaders initiatives and the Tamheen program.
Digital screens on the sidelines allowed participants to explore updated procedures for obtaining a professional teaching license, an essential step in enhancing educational competencies.
To add a practical side to the event, two of Qatar’s largest stationery outlets set up booths, offering families a convenient shopping experience ahead of the school season.
The first day’s program was packed with activities, including An Hour of Science experiments held at 3 p.m. at the outdoor square stage, followed by quizzes and competitions in the evening. At 10 a.m., a lecture titled Psychological Balance and Quality of Life was delivered by Dr. Yasser Al-Hazimi at Al-Mayassa Theatre, while a knowledge challenge segment took place at 6:15 p.m.
In addition, five workshops led by top professors and doctors were held between noon and 2 p.m., raising awareness among both students and parents.
According to the ministry, the second day will begin at 9 a.m. with an educational session and a tour of the teachers’ project exhibitions, followed by a graduation ceremony for the Successful Beginning program at 5 p.m at Al-Mayassa Theatre.
The outdoor square will continue to feature the same activities from the first day, alongside puppet shows and live stage performances.
The Back to School initiative reflects the ministry’s ongoing efforts to raise awareness among students and parents, strengthen the role of teachers, and enhance the overall education process in Qatar.
