Tribune News Network
Doha
THE Public Works Authority (Ashghal) announced on Saturday that the construction of 13 new schools and two kindergartens for the academic year 2017-2018 has been completed, noting that Ashghal has accomplished 73 schools and 37 kindergartens inside and outside Doha since 2013.
Twelve schools and two nurseries have been handed over to the Ministry of Education and Higher Education for the school year 2017-2018 while one is in the process of being delivered, Ashghal stated.
The total value of the new educational buildings amounted to QR 878,000,000, and each school comprises 25 classrooms to accommodate 650 students while each kindergarten includes 12 classrooms to cater for 240 pupils.
The new educational facilities have been handed over per schedule and the required specifications prior to the new academic year, in light of Ashghal's contribution to the vital sector as a top priority set by the country in the National Vision 2030.
The construction of these educational facilities follows the standard design model for schools, comprising various facilities including science, language and IT laboratories, as well as sports and art halls, multipurpose halls, gyms, libraries and classrooms in addition to outdoor spaces with shaded parking spaces, playgrounds and service buildings.
Likewise, the nurseries are composed of 12 classrooms to accommodate 240 children, shaded playing and activity areas, music, language and computer rooms, in addition to a library, classrooms and external spaces, comprising shaded parking spaces, green areas and service buildings.
Being awarded the three-star Global Sustainability Assessment System (GSAS) certification in design and construction by the Gulf Organization for Research and Development, Ashghal pursued to comply with the green building specifications in a way that would help reduce energy at a rate of 25 percent, achieve lower water consumption, improve indoor environment, and reflect local architecture and heritage.
GSAS supports the achievement of Qatar National Vision 2030 to promote sustainability standards in the country's urban environment.
The design of schools and kindergartens is in line with the Qatari code for people with special needs, providing ramps at entrances and exits with special specifications for bathrooms and other areas. It also complies with safety requirements adopted by Global Fire and Security Systems and Qatari Civil Defense.