Hanane Djoua
In an age where global trends often overshadow local traditions, maintaining a strong sense of cultural identity has become a significant challenge for educational institutions worldwide. Yet, Tariq Bin Ziad School, a part of Qatar Foundation family,has risen to this challenge with a groundbreaking educational model that bridges global excellence and local heritage, creating a paradigm for culturally rooted, globally relevant education.
At the heart of this vision is Dr. Maha Al Romaihi, the school’s dynamic director, whose leadership has propelled Tariq Bin Ziad School to the forefront of educational innovation. Under her guidance, the school, part of Qatar Foundation’s network of institutions, has developed a curriculum that seamlessly integrates international academic standards with the rich cultural traditions of Qatar, offering students a holistic education that celebrates their identity while preparing them for the challenges of a globalized world.
“We believe that we present a very unique model in the world, not just in the region,” Dr. Al Romaihi said in an exclusive interview with Qatar Tribune. “We take an international curriculum, localize it, and provide a very unique dual-language model where we focus on English and Arabic in a very equitable way. We also incorporate the local culture into all our teachings and programs.”
This dual-language approach is particularly noteworthy, as it equips students with the linguistic skills necessary to thrive in both local and international contexts. By giving equal importance to English and Arabic, the school fosters bilingual proficiency, empowering students to communicate effectively across cultures while remaining deeply connected to their heritage.
Moreover, the integration of local culture into the curriculum extends beyond language. From Qatari history and literature to traditional arts and values, every aspect of the school’s programs is infused with elements that reflect and celebrate the nation’s identity. This ensures that students develop a profound appreciation for their roots, even as they engage with global perspectives.
The success of Tariq Bin Ziad School’s innovative model has not gone unnoticed, leading to plans for expansion. To meet the growing demand for its distinctive educational approach, the school has announced the upcoming launch of a middle school. This new chapter will enable more students to benefit from its unique blend of global excellence and local heritage, further solidifying its reputation as a trailblazer in education.
As a member of Qatar Foundation’s network, Tariq Bin Ziad School embodies the Foundation’s mission to foster innovation while preserving cultural identity. Its commitment to preserving cultural identity while embracing global standards demonstrates that education can be both rooted and forward-thinking—a powerful combination that prepares students to navigate an interconnected world without losing sight of who they are.
A Localized Global Curriculum
Tariq Bin Ziad School stands out as a beacon of innovation in education, blending the rigor of the International Baccalaureate (IB) program with a profound commitment to preserving and promoting Qatari culture. While the IB curriculum is globally recognized for its high academic standards and holistic approach, Tariq Bin Ziad School has gone a step further by localizing its content to ensure that students remain deeply connected to their heritage.
“We are a globalized school,” explained Dr. Maha Al Romaihi, Director of Tariq Bin Ziad School. “We intentionally search for materials, content, and resources that link to the students’ culture.” This philosophy of localization permeates every aspect of the school’s operations, creating an educational environment where global knowledge meets local identity.
Bringing Culture into the Classroom
Localization at Tariq Bin Ziad School extends far beyond textbooks and lesson plans. In art classes, students are encouraged to explore their creativity using materials native to Qatar, such as stones, shells, and natural pigments. This not only fosters artistic expression but also provides a tactile connection to the natural environment and cultural heritage of their homeland.
The school’s literature and music programs further exemplify its commitment to cultural preservation. Students delve into works by Qatari authors, exploring stories and poetry that reflect the nation’s values and history. In music classes, they learn traditional nursery rhymes, play traditional instruments, and even participate in composing melodies inspired by local culture. These experiences not only enrich their education but also instill a deep appreciation for Qatar’s artistic legacy.
Even physical education is imbued with cultural significance. Traditional Qatari games are incorporated into the curriculum, allowing students to stay active while learning about the recreational activities of previous generations. These games, often passed down orally, offer a window into the daily lives and traditions of Qatar’s ancestors.
Beyond the Classroom:
A Celebration of Heritage
The school’s dedication to cultural preservation is not confined to the classroom. Tariq Bin Ziad School has pioneered initiatives that celebrate and share Qatari heritage on a broader scale. “We are unique in introducing the first Qatari choir,” Dr. Al Romaihi proudly shared. This choir performs traditional Qatari music, giving students a platform to express their cultural identity while honing their musical talents.
In addition to the choir, the school has taken steps to document and share Qatar’s rich cultural heritage with the wider community. A notable example is the production of a documentary on Qatari music and traditional games, which is available on the school’s YouTube channel. This initiative not only preserves these cultural treasures for future generations but also raises awareness of Qatar’s unique traditions in an increasingly globalized world.
Inspiring the Next Generation
By embedding cultural elements into every facet of its curriculum, Tariq Bin Ziad School is shaping a generation of students who are not only academically accomplished but also deeply rooted in their heritage. The school’s approach serves as a model for educational institutions worldwide, demonstrating that it is possible to balance global excellence with local identity.
As Qatar continues to grow and evolve on the international stage, schools like Tariq Bin Ziad play a vital role in ensuring that its culture and traditions remain vibrant. Through their innovative educational practices, they are nurturing students who are prepared to engage with the world while proudly carrying the essence of Qatar with them.
The Dual-Language Model:
A Key to Success
At the core of Tariq Bin Ziad School’s educational philosophy lies its innovative dual-language model, a cornerstone of its mission to produce globally competent students who remain deeply rooted in their cultural heritage. This unique approach places equal emphasis on English and Arabic, ensuring that students not only achieve linguistic fluency but also develop a strong sense of identity and cultural pride.
“Building a strong identity starts with language,” said Dr. Maha Al Romaihi, Director of Tariq Bin Ziad School. “A strong native language, which is the Arabic language, is the foundation for understanding one’s environment and forming meaningful connections with the world.”
Bridging Cultures Through Language
The dual-language model is not merely a method of instruction; it is a cultural bridge that connects students to their heritage while preparing them to excel in a globalized world. Arabic, as the students’ native language, is deeply integrated into the curriculum, allowing them to explore their history, literature, and traditions. At the same time, English is taught with equal rigor, opening doors to international opportunities and enabling students to engage with global academic and professional communities.
This balanced approach ensures that students develop bilingual proficiency, an invaluable skill in today’s interconnected world. Whether analyzing a Qatari poem in Arabic or presenting a scientific project in English, students learn to navigate both languages with confidence and ease.
Strengthening Identity Through Arabic
For Tariq Bin Ziad School, teaching Arabic is about more than grammar and vocabulary—it is about instilling a sense of pride and belonging. The Arabic language serves as a vessel for understanding the values, history, and culture of Qatar. Through literature classes, students study the works of renowned Arab authors and poets, connecting with the rich literary heritage of the region. In social studies, they delve into the history of Qatar and the Arab world, gaining a deeper appreciation for their roots.
This emphasis on Arabic helps students build a strong cultural foundation, enabling them to develop a well-rounded identity. “When students have a deep understanding of their native language and culture, they are better equipped to engage meaningfully with the world,” Dr. Al Romaihi explained.
English as a Gateway to the World
While Arabic forms the foundation of identity, English serves as a gateway to global opportunities. Tariq Bin Ziad School’s rigorous English program equips students with the skills they need to excel in international contexts, from higher education to professional careers. Students engage in a variety of activities, such as debates, research projects, and creative writing, all designed to enhance their command of the English language. The school’s dual-language model also prepares students to act as cultural ambassadors.
Fostering Cultural Identity Through Education
Dr Al Romaihi has spent over two decades in K-12 education, and her ex- perience has reinforced the importance of cultural identity in a student’s devel- opment. “Through my 24 years of expe- rience, I’ve seen students who struggle with their identity face challenges in life,” she said. “Those who have a strong sense of identity, on the other hand, thrive in their environment.”
At Tariq Bin Ziad School, cultural identity is woven into every aspect of the student experience. From the class- room to extracurricular activities, stu- dents are constantly reminded of their heritage and its value. This holistic ap- proach helps them build confidence, self-awareness, and a sense of pride in their culture. The school’s efforts are particularly evident during Qatar Na- tional Day celebrations. Unlike many institutions that limit the celebration to a single day, Tariq Bin Ziad School dedicates an entire month to exploring the history, values, and significance of the occasion. “We don’t only celebrate Qatar National Day in one day,” Dr Al Romaihi explained. “We dig deeper and teach children the values and reasons behind the celebration.”
Engaging the Parent Community
A strong sense of community is central to Tariq Bin Ziad School’s phi- losophy, and this extends to its parent body. The Tariq Bin Ziad Ambassadors Association, a group of nominated par- ents, plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between the school administration and the wider community. “They are the parents’ voice to the school,” Dr Al Romaihi said. “They create initiatives and implement them in the school, linking us to various organizations in Qatar.”
Over the years, the association has spearheaded several impactful ini- tiatives. Two years ago, the Be the Im- pact program introduced students to entrepreneurship, with Qatari entities providing training and mentorship. Last year, the Pearls of Tariq Bin Ziad initiative focused on strengthening mother-daughter relationships while encouraging community service. This year, the school is planning a hack- athon in collaboration with Qatar Foundation students. The event will focus on coding and problem-solving, equipping students with critical skills for the future.
A Vision for Global Citizenship
While Tariq Bin Ziad School is deeply rooted in Qatari culture, its mission extends beyond national bor- ders. The school aims to create global citizens who are aware of their lo- cal identity and heritage. “This is the best way to be a global citizen—by understanding one’s environment, is- sues, and challenges,” Dr Al Romaihi explained. To achieve this, the school collaborates with various organiza- tions, including the Ministry of Cul- ture, the Center for Children’s Litera- ture, Ibtikar, and Qatar’s museums. These partnerships provide students with opportunities to engage with their heritage while gaining a broader perspective on global issues.
The school’s values program also plays a significant role in shaping stu- dents into responsible global citizens. “We believe that these are global val- ues,” Dr. Al Romaihi said. “They help students develop empathy, respect, and a sense of responsibility toward their community and the world.”
