The Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development (QF), which consists of more than 80 centres and joint ventures including branch campuses of world-class universities, is all set to host a number of activities in the coming months.
"Exhibitions of vintage cars, photography and art are among the itinerary drawn up," Mohamed al-Naimi, director, Community Affairs, Support Services, QF, told Gulf Times.
Speaking on the sidelines of a calligraphy exhibition that opened at the QF Recreation Centre on Wednesday, al-Naimi said that his department would organise a number of programmes for the community all through the fiscal year, starting from July.
The official revealed that QF would officially launch the e-bike facility sometime next month. "At present there are 55 such bikes and by the end of October there will be 150 of them. This can be used by all the community members of the Education City such as the students and other staff."
Al-Naimi announced that the QF's National Sport Day celebrations, which are also open to the general public, would be "different" next time.
"For the next National Sport Day, we will have only two venues; one at the Al Shaqab and the other one will be the cricket field instead of the six venues last year. All the sport events, except cricket, will take place at Al Shaqab.
"We have planned it in such a way so that everyone can participate in as many activities as possible. Last year we found that many people had difficulty in reaching from one venue to the others. We hope that the new arrangement will enable more participation this year."
Al-Naimi explained that there would be about 60 events for the community and the public. "Last year we had 13,000 participants and this year, we expect around 15,000 to take part."
Regarding QF's National Day celebration plans, the official hoped it could be held at the Al Shaqab centre. "It is an amazing facility and we can accommodate a large number of people there. We had already organised the Garangao festival at the facility which was a huge success."
Al-Naimi also pointed out that the activities were planned and organised in consultation with the community members. "We look into our past events and examine various aspects. We also conduct surveys among the members to collect their opinions and impressions about our events. We cater to all the members of the community and take care of the needs of everyone including ladies and children."
© Gulf Times 2014
