Qatar Academy Al Khor Concludes Student-Led Autism Awareness Month Celebrations

Qatar Academy Al Khor (QAK), part of Qatar Foundation’s Pre-University Education, has concluded its Autism Awareness Month campaign titled ‘You are Not Alone’.

QAK’s campaign, created by Grade 6 student Fatima Al Mahanadi in collaboration with the QAK Librarian Islam El-Shahidi, ran through April, and included a diverse range of educational opportunities, awareness-raising events, and activities involving teachers, students, and parents.

As part of the campaign, a banner was hung on the school’s facade highlighting the theme, and students and parents could use a QR code to view a video of students expressing the theme in seven different languages. Poster and video competitions were run throughout the month, too, while badges were worn by students and staff alike, helping in increasing awareness and promoting acceptance.

Additionally, autism awareness assemblies were held at QAK’s elementary and secondary schools, where Fatima told the story of her journey with a sibling with autism. The school also purchased additional library books and learning resources suggested by Fatima.

Aisha M. Al Megbali, Director of QAK, said: “It has been a great pleasure to see QAK students celebrate Autism Awareness Month by participating in our very own campaign run by our Grade 6 student, Fatima Al Mahanadi.

“Dr. Adrienne Robek, Clinical Director and Phycologist from the Child Development Center, helped students understand what it is like to live with challenges, and to better understand autism. By understanding and accepting differences, students learned to be more tolerant, and caring towards others. The school will continue to educate its learners on autism by extending our campaign and sharing what we know with the wider community.”