Khalid Tawalbeh
In a groundbreaking move that resonates with strategic foresight, Al Faleh Educational Holding, guided by the astute leadership of CEO Sheikha Anwar bint Nawaf Al Thani, has embarked on a transformative journey by formally transitioning to the esteemed main market of the Qatar Stock Exchange.
This decision underscores the company’s commitment to not only charting a new course for its own growth but also contributing significantly to the dynamism of the regional financial landscape.
Aligned with the visionary trajectory set forth by Qatar National Vision 2030, under the wiseleadership of His Highness the Amir of the State of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Al Faleh Educational Holding’s transition to the main market symbolizes a pivotal step towards realizing the nation’s ambitious goals.
As the institution aligns its strategies with the broader national vision, it not only exemplifies a commitment to educational excellence but also becomes a beacon of progress within the dynamic framework envisioned by HH the Amir, steering Qatar towards a prosperous and globally influential future. This move positions it as a beacon of innovation and reliability in the realms of education and investment alike.
Sheikha Anwar’s strategic vision and leadership acumen have played an instrumental role in steering the company toward this momentous juncture, laying the groundwork for sustained success and resilience. The company envisions fostering an ecosystem of growth, collaboration, and educational excellence that echoes the values inherent in its mission. The completion of procedures with the Qatar Stock Exchange, the Qatar Central Securities Depository, and relevant authorities paved the way for the first trading day on the main market, on Sunday, January 28, 2024.
In an exclusive interview with Qatar Tribune, Sheikha Anwar stressed the significance of becoming the first Qatari female CEO listed on the stock market and highlighted the strategic shift to the main market of the QSE.
Sheikha Anwar stressed that being the first female CEO listed on the stock market is a momentous occasion, while underscoring the trailblazing efforts of Qatari women in various sectors.
She said she is following in the footsteps of Qatari women who have inspired not only herself but, hopefully, future generations to effect change in diverse industries, confirming that the advancement towards greater diversity and inclusiveness in leadership positions for women started several years ago. She highlighted the presence of female empowerment and leadership in different sectors and industries in Qatar, including the medical field, real estate, development, and cultural institutions.
In educational leadership, she stressed that women often prioritize decisions based on student learning, aligning with Al Faleh Educational Holding’s vision. “The chairperson, HE Dr Sheikha Aisha bint Faleh Al Thani, emphasizes prioritizing the growth and development of students as global citizens,” Sheikha Anwar added.
She underscored that the presence of a greater number of female leaders in education is crucial for achieving a knowledge-based economy in Qatar.
She highlighted that the strategic shift supports the Qatar National Vision 2030, emphasizing the significance of educational curricula addressing present and future labor market requirements, stressing the commitment to continuous improvement and growth as an organization.
Sheikha Anwar underscored that the transition to the main market signals collective growth in resources, financials, and management expertise.
In pursuing educational excellence, she emphasized that the shift reflects the commitment to adapt to evolving demands. She highlighted that Qatar’s educational landscape requires dynamic and innovative solutions, and the move to the main market positions Al Faleh Educational Holding to meet these challenges.
She stressed the belief that resources, financials, and management expertise have sufficiently grown to justify the transition. She said the movesymbolizes the dedication to providing educational excellence aligned with international standards.
She highlighted the focus on contributing to the development of Qatar’s future leaders. She expressed gratitude to all who have contributed to this success story. Sheikha Anwar stressed the commitment to prioritizing student growth and development, which remains unwavering. In pursuing educational excellence, she underscored that collective growth as an organization is imperative.
“We are delighted to share this remarkable news with our stakeholders and the community. This milestone not only underscores our dedication to education but also marks a historic moment as the first Qatari educational institution with a female CEO listed on the stock market,” said Sheikha Anwar.
Comprising Doha Academy Schools, Doha International Kindergarten, and AFG College with the University of Aberdeen, Al Faleh Educational Holding has consistently maintained high standards of teaching excellence, significantly contributing to Qatar’s educational landscape.
“We extend our sincere gratitude to all who have contributed to this success story. This accomplishment is a testament to the collective dedication and efforts of our team, students, and partners,” added Sheikha Anwar.
Al Faleh remains resolute in advancing education and contributing to the development of Qatar’s future leaders, aligning seamlessly with the visionary goals set by its founder Dr Sheikha Aisha Bint Faleh Al Thani.
Provided insights into the procedural steps involved in Al Faleh Educational Holding’s transition to the main market, she said, “The shares of Al Faleh Educational Holding were initially made available to the public via the venture market on April 13, 2021, a credit to our Chairperson, HE Dr Sheikha Aisha bint Al Faleh Al Thani, whose commitment to continuous improvement drove the transformation of our institution.”
She emphasized the role of the Qatar Financial Markets Authority in setting stringent regulations for companies seeking to list on the stock market and acknowledged the Qatar Central Securities Depository for providing necessary support. “Following our venture market entry, our transition to the main market has been a seamless path, achieved through collective efforts, including collaboration with relevant regulatory bodies overseeing the transition,” she added.
She said, “I strongly believe our transition to the main market exemplifies our capability and readiness to meet rigorous regulatory requirements set by the Qatar Financial Markets Authority.”
“Listing in the main market is expected to improve Al Faleh’s visibility and credibility among institutions and the public. From an operational perspective, the ability to attract the right talent for expansion is a significant advantage of listing,” she expressed.
“At a strategic level, our goal is to establish partnerships and collaborate with regional and international institutions. As an organization, we are confidently moving forward on our ‘we can do it if we set our minds to it’, our long-term objective is to prioritize aligning academic offerings with the ever-changing needs of the labor market,” she underlined.
“While it is common for any organization to plan for the usual ebb and flow of industry changes, Al Faleh is actively seeking opportunities to drive transformation. Moving ahead, we hope to apply the same collaborative effort framework with relevant regulatory bodies in the education sector to effect change and foster teaching excellence,” Sheikha Anwar added.
In anticipating the impact of Al Faleh Educational Holding’s transition on other educational providers and the overall education sector, Sheikha Anwar said, “I believe that all educational institutions within Qatar share the collective goal of ensuring students have access to the highest standard of education. While continuous learning is a superpower in today’s fast-paced world, the education sector should explore developing dynamic learning environments and regional and international collaborations, achievable through growth,” she stressed.
“Listing in the stock market kick starts the growth trajectory of any organization, impacting educational providers and the sector as a whole. For educational providers considering entry into the stock market, I can positively say that the regulatory bodies in Qatar serve as a supportive framework that facilitates the listing process.”
“Our journey has been a positive one thus far, and I anticipate that this change will inspire growth and collaboration within the education sector in Qatar, “ she concluded.
Sheikha Anwar bint Nawaf Al Thani’s leadership at the helm of Al Faleh Educational Holding marks a historic milestone not only for the institution but for the broader landscape of women in leadership roles in Qatar.
The transition to the main market, coupled with the visionary guidance of the CEO and the unwavering commitment to educational excellence, positions Al Faleh Educational Holding as a transformative force in Qatar’s education sector.
The ripple effects of Al Faleh’s transition extend beyond its own walls, offering an inspiring example for other educational providers in the country. The emphasis on continuous learning and dynamic collaboration underscores a commitment to adapting to the evolving needs of students and the global workforce.
As Al Faleh Educational Holding sets its sights on international partnerships and growth, it serves as a beacon for the education sector’s potential for positive transformation.
In the years to come, the impact of this historic move is anticipated to resonate not only in boardrooms but in classrooms, as Al Faleh Educational Holding continues to foster teaching excellence, develop future leaders, and contribute significantly to Qatar’s educational landscape.
The collaborative spirit exhibited throughout this transformative journey, both with regulatory bodies and within the broader educational community, sets a precedent for the power of unity in advancing educational goals.
