The Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MoEHE) has reported strong participation in its 2026 Summer Activities Programme, with nearly 900 students currently enrolled and total attendance expected to reach 1,000. The initiative is underway across five strategically located summer centres, including a dedicated facility for students with special needs.

Khalid al-Saadi, a programmes and activities specialist at MoEHE, explained that while all centres follow a unified core curriculum, activities are tailored to different age groups ranging from 6 to 18 years old. Special education professionals lead specialized programmes to support an inclusive and supportive environment for students with disabilities.

The programme aims to provide academic, social, and personal development opportunities throughout the school break. According to al-Saadi, the summer initiative goes beyond simple engagement during holidays; it integrates leadership, teamwork, volunteerism, innovation, creativity, and the reinforcement of positive values, national identity, and social responsibility.

In response to high demand, MoEHE has expanded the capacity of several locations, with limited spots still available, including at the Al Wakrah centre. Hassan Dabsan al-Qahtani, director of the Al Wakrah centre, said the facility currently serves 150 participants split between younger children and teenagers. He highlighted a balanced mix of educational, sporting, cultural, and recreational activities, emphasizing physical, intellectual, and social skill development.

New features of this year’s programme include academic and career guidance sessions designed to help teenagers explore university specializations and career paths based on their interests and abilities. Quran memorization and recitation classes are offered under the supervision of specialist teachers, while the Qatar Scouts and Guides Association contributes activities aimed at building discipline, responsibility, and teamwork.

Technology and innovation form a core focus of the programme, with students engaging in workshops on computer programming, engineering design, and 3D printing through partnerships with innovation incubators. These sessions provide hands-on experiences in designing models and prototypes. Additionally, workshops on artificial intelligence and cybersecurity are offered, equipping students with vital digital skills.

A notable forthcoming event is the Youth Cyber Camp, co-organized with the National Cyber Security Agency and scheduled to begin on July 19. The camp intends to enhance digital awareness, cybersecurity knowledge, safe online practices, and practical training in data protection, while introducing participants to emerging technologies.

Weekly educational field trips are a key component, with visits to museums, scientific centres, sports facilities, and recreational destinations each Thursday. These outings aim to enrich learning through experiential activities under full supervision and with organized transportation.

The programme is conducted in partnership with more than 20 government agencies, private sector entities, and civil society organizations, which provide workshops and lectures covering health, volunteerism, culture, digital literacy, and life skills. According to al-Saadi, this broad partnership model enhances the diversity and quality of learning experiences offered.

The Summer Activities Programme will run until July 30, followed by a closing ceremony on August 3 to acknowledge student achievements and partner contributions.