Tribune News Network
Doha
Students from Qatar Academy Msheireb and Qatar Academy Al Wakra, both part of Qatar Foundation Pre-University Education, participated in an initiative organised by the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change to release endangered baby hawksbill turtles at Fuwairit Beach.
The initiative, which aimed to raise environmental awareness among school students and the Qatari community, emphasised the importance of conserving local biodiversity and educating future generations about the critical need to protect turtles from extinction.
Sharing her experience, Sarah Naveed, a 7-year-old student from Qatar Academy Msheireb (QAM), said: "We carried the turtles and put them in the ocean. It felt amazing to help the turtles get back to their home safely.”
She continued, "We need to save the turtles from extinction. It’s important to protect them because they help keep the ocean healthy.”
Naveed emphasised that people should be responsible when disposing trash and not throw it in the sea as many turtles die because of eating plastic.
"In school, we saw pictures and videos about pollution. I learned how pollution affects turtles and the ocean. This experience showed me how important it is to protect the environment.”
Ahmed Jassim, a 12-year-old student at Qatar Academy Al Wakra (QAW), said he too participated in the initiative so turtles can continue to have a safe and healthy environment.
He said the experience had been valuable because it taught him more about marine ecosystems and how humans can protect turtles.
Highlighting the fatal impact of plastic on turtles, Jassim said: "Everyone should be aware of the devastating effects of throwing plastic waste in the ocean. I encourage all students to get involved in similar initiatives and play an active role in preserving the environment.”
Aisha Ghani, an Environment Specialist at Qatar Foundation Health, Safety and Environment (QF HS&E), explained that the turtle hatching, and release initiative is a hands-on program where students actively participate in releasing baby turtles into the sea.
She said: "The primary goal of the initiative is to educate students about sea turtles – their life cycle, habitats, threats they face – conservation, the importance of protecting wildlife, and the impact of pollution, particularly plastic pollution, on marine life.”
Ghani mentioned that they collaborate closely with teachers to integrate the programme into the school curriculum to ensure the initiative meets its educational goals effectively.
"Students gain firsthand knowledge about nature and wildlife, developing a sense of responsibility and care for the environment. It’s a unique and memorable experience that enriches their understanding and appreciation of the natural world.”
She added: "Environmental education is crucial in shaping future conservation efforts. It helps students understand the importance of protecting nature, inspiring them to become advocates for the environment. Educated students are more likely to make sustainable choices and influence others to do the same.”
Jassim Lari, head of the Marine Wildlife Development section at Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MOECC), said: "Our main objective with this initiative is to protect, conserve, and develop the critically endangered hawksbill turtles. These sea turtles are crucial for the marine environment, not just locally but globally, as they are migratory animals that travel across borders, including the Arabian Gulf.”
He explained that by involving students from various schools, MOECC’s goal is to educate the next generation about environmental care, natural habitats, and biodiversity. Turtles are particularly focused on because of their significant role in the Qatari marine ecosystem.
He added that through initiatives like this, MOECC aims to raise awareness among students and the community. When children see government officials actively involved, it underscores the importance of these conservation efforts. This engagement sparks curiosity and questions, fostering a deeper understanding and commitment to environmental stewardship.
Lari said: "Participation in such initiatives not only educates students but also instils a sense of responsibility towards sustaining ecosystems and preserving biodiversity. This holistic approach encourages everyone – students, visitors, and officials – to play a crucial role in achieving environmental sustainability.”