Tribune News Network
Doha
The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Generation Amazing Foundation to launch the ‘Qatar Healthy Cities: Sports for Health and Development’ programme.
The MoU was signed by Dr Salih Ali Al Marri, Assistant Minister for Health Affairs, on behalf of the MoPH, and Nasser Al Khori, Executive Director of the Generation Amazing Foundation.
This initiative aligns with Qatar’s National Health Strategy and the World Health Organization’s Healthy Cities Programme, building on the legacy of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 to promote health through sports.
The programme addresses public health challenges such as non-communicable diseases, mental health, and social inclusion. It also aligns with the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, with a goal to increase physical activity by 15 percent.
The programme commenced in September 2024, with training delivered to 11 schools for students aged 6 to 12 years. 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, HE Dr Hanan Mohamed Al Kuwari, Minister of Public Health, 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.”
She added, “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.”
Hassan Al Thawadi, Secretary-General of the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC) and Chairman of the Generation Amazing Foundation, 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 kicked off with a one-day training session, conducted by master trainers from Generation Amazing, for 24 teachers. These educators, having received specialized training, are now applying their newly acquired skills to work together in delivering sports and health programmes to school students. This initiative allows teachers to gain valuable practical experience that extends beyond traditional classroom activities. Initially, the programme is expected to benefit approximately 1,000 children, promoting health and well-being through sports-focused education.
Additionally, the programme will conduct six sessions per semester in international schools and Asslam Schools. The Asslam Schools, operated under Education Above All’s Together Project, serve students who are unable to access mainstream public or private education.
Throughout the year, students participating in the programme will acquire knowledge in six key health areas, establishing a foundation for lifelong health and well-being. These areas include learning how to navigate social media and address misinformation, understanding the link between healthy sleep habits and overall mental and physical health, exploring the benefits of regular physical activity, recognizing the impact of a balanced diet, developing healthy mental habits and relationships, and 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.
