QF Schools Celebrate The Graduation Of Their Classes Of 2022

Hundreds of students are preparing for the next stage of their academic journey after graduating from schools at Qatar Foundation – with milestones being reached as the outcomes of years of learning and discovery are celebrated.

Eight schools under Qatar Foundation’s (QF) Pre-University Education (PUE) have held graduation ceremonies that mark the achievements of 544 young people, of 28 nationalities, who have learnt, created, innovated, and excelled during their time within QF’s ecosystem of knowledge, and been equipped to be change makers and active contributors to their communities.

2022 saw the first batches of students to graduate from Qatar Academy Science and Technology (QAST) and Qatar Academy Al Wakrah (QAW), as well as from Awsaj Academy’s unique Prime program, which supports students to make the transition from school to university, and then into their careers.

The graduation ceremonies brought together families and teachers of the graduating students, and speakers who had inspiring words for them, as they looked back on their successes and experiences, and turned their minds and sights to what the future holds.

“As we celebrate the latest batch of graduates from our network of Qatar Foundation schools, the overriding emotion for us is pride,” said Abeer Al-Khalifa, President of QF’s Pre-University Education.

“We are proud of how they have overcome the challenges of the past two years, their dedication to learning and to contributing to their communities, their determination to excel, and the values they demonstrate every day. In 2022, this sense of pride is magnified, with two of our schools – Qatar Academy for Science and Technology, and Qatar Academy Al Wakra – graduating their first students, and Awsaj Academy’s Prime program graduating its inaugural batch of students.

“These milestones illustrate the continued growth and evolution of our PUE ecosystem, a learning environment where every child can explore their curiosity, creativity, and individuality, and identify how they can contribute to Qatar and the world. As our graduates move into the next stage of their journey, the experiences and opportunities they have gained within our schools will serve them well – equipping them to be the change-makers we look to them to be.”

More than 6,600 young people have now graduated from QF’s schools, and among the latest graduates is aspiring doctor Ali Al-Kuwari, who relived his experience at QF’s STEM-focused school QAST by saying: “QAST has taught me many valuable lessons, including focusing on the bright side, the spirit of teamwork, and taking the initiative. But, most importantly, QAST has taught me how to forge my own path.

“The advice I’d give to the younger generation is not to settle for a safe life. Fill it with purpose, meaning, and – most importantly – adventure.”

Speaking at QAW’s graduation ceremony, Class of 2022 valedictorian Amna Ali – who will continue her studies at QF partner university Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar – told her fellow graduates: “Our learning journey was not an easy one, but it was like a dream coming true. And here I am, living a dream coming true – as one of QAW’s first graduates.

“Remember this: the road may look endless, and the dream a mirage, but there is a light at the end of the tunnel. All you need to do is believe in yourself, and work hard to get there.”

According to Awsaj Academy valedictorian Shaikha Al Kubaisi, graduation was the moment that “the time for the harvest has come”, while her Awsaj Prime counterpart Maha Al Mohamed said: “Myself and my family have always waited for this moment - the joy of graduation cannot be matched by any other feeling.”

For Qatar Academy Al Khor valedictorian Sara Ali Al Mannai, the path to graduation reflected how “the good moments would not be as good if we had not faced the hardships we faced”, as she said: “Years ago, we came here with dreams and aspirations – today, we leave with even greater ambitions.

“We are all preparing for the next phase of our lives with passion, perseverance, and a dedication to making our dreams come true.”

Meanwhile, during her valedictorian speech at Qatar Academy Sidra’s graduation ceremony, Sara El Sallabi said: “Our eyes have been opened to new perspectives in the theories of knowledge, our minds exposed to the world of politics and human rights, and our voices heard as we honed the art of advocacy.

“These lessons shape us to become citizens of the world who will use their voices and advocate for change. To truly reach your potential, you must conquer your fears and face the challenges that come before you. To be a great person, you must be willing to do great things, and I am confident that every person here is capable of excellence.”

Qatar Academy Doha (QAD) Class of 2022 graduate Khaled Al Binali said he had made “unbreakable friendships” during his time at the school, adding: “I am grateful I could walk an intellectual path with all the incredible people I have met over the years while studying at QAD – I would not be the person I am without the support of this school.”

Qatar Leadership Academy (QLA) class valedictorian Mohammed Al Essae described the school as “a spring that is ever flowing and a tree that is always fruitful”, saying: “QLA is providing the country with a new group of graduates supported by education and knowledge, charged with energy and diligence, and ready to help continue the development and growth of their country.”

And at the ceremony to celebrate the newest graduates of QF’s Academic Bridge Program (ABP) – which equips young people for enrolment in leading universities in Qatar and around the world – Class of 2022 member and student association president Aliya Niaz told her peers and friends: “The community that ABP cultivates is a family like no other.

“Often, on graduation day, we celebrate the accomplishments of the previous academic year, but this is much more than an academic achievement. So take a moment and imagine the horizon. Imagine all the places and possibilities there are in the world. You will see that life is a fascinating mystery full of opportunities waiting to be seized.”