​Dr. Hamda Hassan Al-Sulaiti, Secretary General of Qatar National Commission for Education, Culture and Science, today honored students, principals and coordinators of UNESCO Associated Schools for their distinguished performance during the academic years of 2018-2019 and 2019-2020.

The honoring took place at the headquarters of Qatar National Committee located at the MOEHE Tower, 21st floor, in the presence of Mrs. Hessa Al-Dossary, National Coordinator of UNESCO Associated Schools, and organizers from the National Committee's UNESCO Department.

Dr. Hamda Al-Sulaiti opened the honoring ceremony by welcoming the attendees, who were split into groups. She said: "We are pleased to meet and honor you today for the outstanding efforts you have put in to execute the UNESCO activities plan for the 2018-2019 academic year. This honoring has been postponed due to the exceptional circumstances imposed on us all during the 2018/2019 and 2019/2020 academic years."

Al-Sulaiti added: "In spite of the obstacles created by the COVID-19 pandemic, we have seen many achievements and participations by our esteemed schools.

They have addressed all difficulties in the field to ensure that students are involved in the activity plans with the purpose of supporting the educational process and contributing to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The plans have particularly focused on realizing the fourth SDG of ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all."

In her speech, Dr Hamda pointed out that "as we honor the well-deserved persons on this day, we are reaping the fruits of the achievements which would not been possible without the guidance of our pioneering leadership that always aspires to achieve the best. This is stemming from our firm belief in the statement of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani that 'Our success in education and development is measured not only by what we invest in these areas, but also by what outcomes we drive.'"

In the same context, Dr Hamda praised the students who participated actively in the UNESCO world days celebrations, as well as the primary, preparatory and secondary stage students who won the drawing and photography competition.

The competition adopted the main themes featured in the UNESCO Associated Schools activities plan. These include the environmental protection, intercultural dialogue, heritage and related legacies and inclusive and comprehensive learning.

The purpose of this is to enhance students' expression, innovation and creativity. It further seeks to ensure that students acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to support sustainable development, adopt sustainable lifestyles and global citizenship, value cultural diversity and appreciate the contribution of cultures to sustainable development.

In conclusion, Al-Sulaiti thanked all the participating schools for their cooperation with the National Committee in implementing its programs, activities and projects that contribute to the success of the UNESCO's plan of activities. She also thanked all attendees and organizers of the ceremony.