Doha, Qatar: The Ministry of Education and Higher Education has launched a nationwide initiative titled “One Hour for Free Reading” across all public schools, engaging students, teachers, and administrative staff in a unified effort to promote reading as a daily practice within the school environment.
The initiative aims to strengthen students’ skills in expression, analysis, and creative thinking, while reinforcing the role of books as a primary source of knowledge amid rapid digital transformation.
The campaign coincides with celebrations marking World Book and Copyright Day, during which the Ministry organized a series of events designed to cultivate a culture of reading within the educational community.
As part of the activities, Assistant Undersecretary for Educational Affairs Maha Zayed Al-Qaqqaa Al-Ruwaili conducted a field visit to Qatar Primary School for Girls, where she observed classroom reading sessions and praised the students’ engagement and diverse interests.
She also commended the school administration for creating a supportive and stimulating reading environment. A number of private schools also participated by organizing their own reading-focused activities.
In parallel, the Curriculum and Learning Resources Department hosted a panel discussion titled “Knowledge in the Age of Artificial Intelligence,” featuring writer and trainer Abdullah bin Omar and educator Aisha Al-Misifri.
The session explored evolving concepts of knowledge, the impact of artificial intelligence on reading habits, the challenges posed by information overload, and the role of education in fostering critical awareness and future-ready skills.
The Ministry also organized a seminar titled “Professional Writing and Copyright” at its headquarters, bringing together academics, writers, and intellectual property specialists.
