Doha: Qatar Academy Al Wakra (QAW), part of Qatar Foundation’s Pre-University Education, recently hosted the second Global Innovation in Sustainability Summit, gathering young minds from Qatar and beyond to drive sustainable development through innovation.
According to Qatar News Agency, this year’s summit brought together schools from 13 countries worldwide, along with 14 schools from Qatar, fostering a collaborative environment. The event centered on how four key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) relate to Qatar, including promoting decent work and economic growth; advancing industry, innovation, and infrastructure; reducing inequalities; and developing sustainable cities and communities.
The opening session, titled ‘Sustainable Development Goals and Energy Nexus’, was hosted by the Abdullah Bin Hamad Al Attiyah International Foundation for Energy and Sustainable Development, in collaboration with United Nations experts. The session explored the crucial role of energy in advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in education, health, and economic growth.
The discussion addressed both opportunities and challenges in shaping a sustainable energy future, emphasizing the need for equitable global access to energy. Additionally, the session examined the interdependence between energy and broader sustainability efforts, offering insights on balancing development needs with environmental responsibility.
During the summit, students delivered 13 live speeches, sharing their perspectives and ideas on sustainability challenges and the SDGs. Their speeches highlighted personal experiences, innovative solutions to environmental and social issues, and proposals to advance sustainability at both local and global levels.
These presentations served as a platform for dialogue and knowledge exchange, bringing together students from diverse backgrounds and cultures. By fostering a deeper understanding of sustainability, the summit empowered a new generation of changemakers to create a positive impact within their communities.
Bedriyah Itani, Director of Qatar Academy Al Wakra, expressed pride in hosting the summit, which unites ambitious young minds and sustainability advocates from around the world. She emphasized that education is the cornerstone of building communities and requires collaboration across sectors. Itani highlighted that innovation begins within the classroom, empowering Qatari youth to become leaders and changemakers for a future built on creativity and resilience.
“Education for sustainability is at the heart of our vision, and this summit reflects our commitment to collaborative efforts between the academy and various sectors. We recognize that we are an integral part of both the world and our local culture, with a shared goal of protecting the planet and ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.”