DOHA: The Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Generation Amazing Foundation to launch the joint programme, "Qatar Healthy Cities: Sports for Health and Development".
The MoU was signed on behalf of the Ministry of Public Health by Assistant Minister for Health Affairs, Dr Salih Ali Al Marri, and on behalf of the Generation Amazing Foundation by Executive Director of the Generation Amazing Foundation, Nasser Al Khori.
The MoU marks a significant step in advancing Qatar's National Health Strategy, aligning it with the World Health Organization's Healthy Cities Programme, and building on the success of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 - Creating Legacy for Sport and Health.
The memorandum highlights the Ministry of Public Health's commitment to addressing public health challenges such as non-communicable diseases, mental health, and social inclusion through sport. The programme is also aligned with the United Nations' 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and aims to increase physical activity by 15 percent, serving as a global benchmark for WHO Healthy Cities, with plans for expansion following the pilot phase.
The Ministry of Public Health and Generation Amazing initiated training at 11 schools in September 2024, targeting students aged 6 to 12. The programme aims to improve the overall well-being of students in Qatar and equip teachers with the necessary training and resources to deliver the Sports for Health and Development Programme. The Programme focuses on three key learning outcomes: the acquisition of health knowledge, social and emotional skills development, and physical literacy.
Marking this important occasion, Minister of Public Health HE Dr Hanan Mohamed Al Kuwari, stated, "The 'Qatar Healthy Cities: Sports for Health and Development' programme represents a vital pillar in the Ministry's efforts to improve the health and well-being of our population." Sheadded, "The Ministry of Public Health is working in collaboration with the Generation Amazing Foundation to launch the 'Qatar Healthy Cities: Sports for Health and Development' initiative. Through this programme, we are not only promoting health and well-being by harnessing the power of sports, but also establishing the foundation for its expansion across the nation. Our vision is to create dynamic, health-supporting urban environments that place the well-being of all citizens at the forefront. Central to this initiative is the principle of community participation and cross-sector collaboration, which are essential components in addressing the wider determinants of health and improving the quality of life in our cities. Together, we are building a future where health is at the heart of every city, and where every individual has the opportunity to flourish."
Secretary-General of the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy and Chairman of the Generation Amazing Foundation, Hassan Al Thawadi, said, "This programme is yet another example of the lasting legacy created by the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. It reflects our belief in the transformative power of sport to drive positive social and humanitarian change. We are proud to offer this initiative to the people of Qatar, with the Ministry of Public Health as a trusted partner. The 'Qatar Healthy Cities' programme will help create healthier lifestyles for our communities, empower our youth, and allow us to play our part in supporting the advancement of our country's National Health Strategy." The implementation of the 'Qatar Healthy Cities: Sports for Health' programme began with a one-day training session, led by master trainers from Generation Amazing, for 24 teachers. These teachers are now applying their newly acquired skills to collaborate on delivering sports and health programmes to school students, gaining valuable hands-on experience beyond the classroom setting. The programme is initially expected to benefit approximately 1,000 children.
Additionally, a total of six sessions per semester will be conducted in international schools and Asslam Schools. The Asslam Schools are a network of schools run by the Education Above All's Together Project. The Together Project provides education for students who are unable to access mainstream public or private education.
Throughout the year, students will gain knowledge in six key health areas, laying the foundation for lifelong health and well-being. They will learn how to navigate social media and tackle misinformation, understand the connection between healthy sleep habits and overall mental and physical health, explore the benefits of regular physical activity, discover the impact of a healthy diet, cultivate healthy mental habits and relationships, and recognize the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene.
The 'Qatar Healthy Cities: Sports for Health and Development' initiative offers numerous benefits to school students by promoting the development of social and emotional skills, encouraging active lifestyles, supporting proper nutrition, and providing comprehensive health education, all driven by the power of sport.
