Under the Slogan “Our Identity Lies in Our Heritage”
The “Hour and Hour” program, in collaboration with Msheireb Properties, organized a National Day celebration under the slogan “Our Identity Lies in Our Heritage.” The event highlighted Qatari heritage and culture, embodying the spirit of national identity and featuring a variety of segments targeting different segments of society.
In this regard, Ms. Tamani Al-Yafei, CEO of the program, stated that this occasion is an opportunity to express a sense of belonging to the homeland and pride in the national identity. She emphasized that Qatar’s National Day commemorates the historic day in 1878 when Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed Al Thani, may God have mercy on him, led his people toward founding the modern state. She extended her highest congratulations to His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Amir of the State of Qatar, and to His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the Father Amir, as well as to the Qatari people, praying that this cherished occasion continues to return with Qatar enjoying security, dignity, and prosperity under the wise leadership of the Amir.
Al-Yafei added, “Participating in the National Day celebrations is part of our duty toward our country, expressing that this day reminds us of Qatar’s deep-rooted history and allows us to reflect on the significant achievements at all levels. It is also a renewed annual occasion to express loyalty, unity, and commitment to work harder for the progress and prosperity of Qatar.”
She emphasized that the National Day celebration is a valuable occasion for all—citizens and residents alike.
Event Program Details
Al-Yafei provided details about the event program, which included a range of artistic and cultural activities. The event featured participation from Hattin Model School for Boys, who presented the national anthem and a Qatari traditional sword dance (Ardah), along with Qatari chants performed by Qatar Academy Al Khor and Qatari poet Fada Al-Hail.
Additionally, there was an intellectual competition titled “Think and Answer,” marking its sixth edition, during which prizes were distributed to the winners. The competition was hosted by Mohammed Al-Marri and student Maryam Al-Marri.
The program focused on showcasing young talents in recitation, acting, and artistic performance, including public speaking in front of audiences. Activities also included puppet theater, a variety of art workshops, and traditional games such as pony rides and bird hunting games, along with a photography corner.
For children, there was a face-painting and henna station, as well as a special segment featuring traditional clothing displays and the “Naqda” craft presented by Qatari designer Ilham Al-Ansari, alongside a bisht tailoring demonstration by Bisht Al-Salem Shop.
Event Objectives
Al-Yafei highlighted that the event aimed to convey messages of love for the homeland, reinforce national identity, and emphasize Qatar’s rich and diverse heritage. The event saw significant public engagement, especially from children, who interacted enthusiastically with the various activities.
Education Sector’s Participation
On this occasion, Ms. Azla Al-Qahtani, Head of the Culture and Identity Department in Qatar Foundation’s Pre-University Education, stressed the importance of instilling values of loyalty and belonging in the hearts of children. She pointed out that celebrating National Day symbolizes a renewed commitment to loyalty and allegiance to the wise leadership.
In this context, students from Qatar Academy Al Khor, one of Qatar Foundation’s schools, participated by presenting a poem recited by Aisha and Noora Saad Al-Shahwani, expressing love and loyalty to the homeland. The celebration continued with a national segment performed by a group of students from the academy, celebrating their love and belonging to Qatar.
Ms. Miray Isaac, Principal of the Primary School at Qatar Academy Al Khor, expressed her joy in marking this cherished national occasion, affirming that student participation contributes to instilling patriotism and pride in national identity, which was evident through the students’ interaction and the presence of their parents at the celebration.
Ms. Moza Al-Kuwari, who supervised the participating students, praised their enthusiasm to take part in the National Day activities at Msheireb, noting that this event deepens students’ pride in their national identity and strengthens their sense of unity and belonging, further enhancing their self-confidence.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Ms. Azla Al-Qahtani emphasized that such participations reflect the active role of the educational community in promoting community engagement and reinforcing national values among future generations.
She extended her gratitude to partners and sponsors who supported the event and contributed to its success.
