Doha: Qatari newspaper editorials on Thursday underscored the emphasis by HH Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, the Chairperson of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development (QF), on prioritizing the protection of education. This focus is deemed essential for consolidating stability and building societies, especially in light of ongoing global conflicts threatening future generations.
According to Qatar News Agency, the editorials also highlighted the resumption of Cabinet sessions chaired by HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani. The Cabinet placed education at the top of its agenda during its first session post-summer break, which addressed preparations for the upcoming academic year.
Al-Raya newspaper specifically warned about the dangers posed to educational institutions in conflict zones, stressing the need to shield education from the repercussions of these conflicts. It highlighted a social media post by HH Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, where she outlined the severe consequences of attacks on educational structures, emphasizing the critical role education plays in societal stability.
The newspaper quoted HH Sheikha Moza, who stated, "Attacks on education destroy the foundations of entire communities, inhibiting them from developing and thriving. Children and youth are unable to acquire the skills they need to contribute to the development of their countries and economies - everyone suffers. We must prioritize the protection of education, safeguarding a sustainable future in and enabling them to realize their dreams."
Al-Raya connected Her Highness' words to Qatar's broader message on the urgent necessity of defending education and students from systematic targeting, which aims to undermine national futures by depriving children of their educational rights. This, the paper argued, results in an ignorant populace unable to progress or adapt to future challenges.
The newspaper also highlighted the ongoing plight in the Gaza Strip and Palestinian territories, where Israeli occupation forces have caused extensive damage to educational infrastructure. The destruction includes 160 public schools and 63 university buildings in Gaza, while 118 public schools and 93 UNRWA schools have been bombed and vandalized. The toll has been devastating, with approximately 18,500 students martyred and 28,854 wounded since the conflict began on October 7, 2023.
In a parallel editorial, Al-Sharq newspaper reflected on Qatar's journey to prosperity, attributing its achievements in human rights and international standing to the efforts of the Cabinet and the integration of roles across executive, legislative, and judicial authorities under the leadership of HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani.
Al-Sharq noted the resumption of Cabinet activities, which signaled a new phase of anticipated achievements. It emphasized the Cabinet's commitment to fulfilling the objectives of the Third National Development Strategy, focusing on translating national priorities into tangible benefits for the nation and its residents.
The newspaper further detailed how the Cabinet is spearheading efforts to implement the Third National Development Strategy, poised to propel Qatar into the next stage of its developmental journey. This strategy aims for a sustainable economy led by citizens, residents, and the private sector, while maintaining the country's values and social cohesion.
Concluding, Al-Sharq emphasized the comprehensive plan encompassing seven strategic pillars: sustainable economic growth, financial sustainability, a future-ready workforce, societal cohesion, high quality of life, environmental sustainability, and distinguished government institutions. The strategy includes diversifying the economy beyond the energy sector, investing in innovation, enhancing services, empowering the workforce, and promoting environmental sustainability.