Tribune News Network
Doha
Qatar Foundation successfully completed the World Math Team Championship 2024, with a closing ceremony attended by Vice Chairperson and CEO of Qatar Foundation Her Excellency Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani.
Qatar, the first in the Middle East to host this prestigious event, supported by its destination partner ‘Visit Qatar’, welcomed 800 math students, including 443 international participants, fostering cultural exchange and academic excellence.
Over the three days, the Qatar National Convention Centre hosted the championship, celebrating the legacy of the Muslim scholar Al-Khwarizmi, known as the ‘Father of Algebra’, under the theme ‘Algebra and Balancing’.
The event emphasized principles of balance and fairness among nations, blending collaboration and competition in an educational environment that fosters both challenge and learning while strengthening cultural connections among participants.
Professors from Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar, a QF partner university, played a pivotal role in the success of the championship. Hasan Demirkoparan, Layan El Hajj, Niraj Khare, Anthony Weston, and Zelealem Yilma brought their expertise and dedication to crafting the competition’s questions, ensuring high-quality academic rigor and intellectual depth. Their efforts enriched the championship, providing a unique and interactive learning experience for the participating students.
After the rounds, top-performing students across all three categories were recognized for their achievements, both as individuals and as teams, receiving multiple medals and awards. The honors covered the junior, intermediate, and advanced levels, celebrating their outstanding performance throughout the event. Among the winners, several Arab and Qatari students distinguished themselves with remarkable accomplishments, earning awards that highlight the growing mathematical talent in the region.
Abeer Al-Khalifa, president of Pre-University Education at Qatar Foundation, said: “We are honored to host this prestigious global event in Qatar, which continues to solidify its position as a global hub for innovation and scientific excellence.”
Al-Khalifa explained that for over two decades, Qatar Foundation has been a pioneer in supporting local, regional, and international efforts aimed at unlocking human potential and building a knowledge-based, innovation-driven society.
“In the Pre-University Education, we are committed to excellence in education and fostering critical and creative thinking skills among young people, preparing them to become outstanding leaders in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through a wide range of specialized initiatives, programs, and competitions.”
During the trip, students had the opportunity to visit some of Qatar’s most prominent tourist and heritage sites, as well as participate in unique events, including the ‘Al-Ghorrah’ activity. This event featured a series of activities that allowed students to gain new insights into Qatar’s rich heritage and culture. It also highlighted various cultural and social aspects of the country, offering them a valuable opportunity to explore Qatar’s unique blend of deep-rooted traditions and modern development.
The success of this championship was largely attributed to the support of the destination partner, ‘Visit Qatar’, and the sponsorship of various companies, including Mowasalat, Qatar Airways, Qatar Rail, and Baladna. Their contributions, including providing essential facilities and resources, were instrumental in making this year’s event a success.