Doha – The Office of the Vice President for Research (OVPR) at Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), a member of Qatar Foundation (QF), collaborated with the Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MEHE) to co-host the Qatar Youth Science Forum 2023.

The event saw 55 teams from high schools across Qatar submit entries to the Forum, competing to demonstrate their research and presentation skills in front of a national audience. Their technologies all sought to address contemporary issues with innovative thinking, ranging from projects such as biodegradable crayons to reduce environmental waste to specialized communication and entertainment systems designed to aid quadriplegic patients.

Five teams hailing from the Qatar Science & Technology Secondary School for Boys (QSTSS), The Next Generation School, Philippine School Doha, and the Philippine International School Qatar took the winning spots in the competition. Aside from certificates of recognition, the teams, which comprised two members each, were selected to represent Qatar at the London International Science Forum, to be held from July 26 - August 9, 2023 and regarded as one of the world’s leading meetings for young scientists. These teams will present their research projects, thus providing them with a unique opportunity to showcase their talents and skills.

"This opportunity gave us so much experience, and we are thrilled to be representing Qatar at an international level. We hope that our research projects will inspire other young people in Qatar to pursue their passion for science and technology," said Talal Eisa Al Ghanem, student at QSTSS, and one of the winners of the competition.

The Qatar Youth Science Forum focused on encouraging high school students to demonstrate scientific creativity and apply research methods to resolve major challenges. This initiative demonstrates Qatar's commitment to investing in education and research, underlining its collective drive to foster a knowledge-based economy in alignment with Qatar National Vision 2030.

“Qatar is home to a thriving hub of scientific research and innovation, but this is only made possible through developing individuals to adopt a multidisciplinary way of thinking. The Forum exemplifies how HBKU inspires a mindset of continuous growth and participation in an environment of lifelong self-development,” said Annalyn Magat, Business Support Officer, OVPR.

HBKU develops multidisciplinary academic programs and national research capabilities that drive collaboration with the world’s best institutions, prepare future leaders with an entrepreneurial mindset, and shape novel solutions for positive, global impact. The University actively leverages synergies with renowned local and international partners to facilitate expertise and build capacity in Qatar and the region, hence ensuring an inclusive, high-quality research and education ecosystem.

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About Hamad Bin Khalifa University

Innovating Today, Shaping Tomorrow.

Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), a member of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science, and Community Development (QF), was founded in 2010 as a research-intensive university that acts as a catalyst for transformative change in Qatar and the region while having global impact. Located in Education City, HBKU is committed to building and cultivating human capacity through an enriching academic experience, innovative ecosystem, and unique partnerships. HBKU delivers multidisciplinary undergraduate and graduate programs through its colleges, and provides opportunities for research and scholarship through its institutes and centers. For more information about HBKU, visit www.hbku.edu.qa.