Tribune News Network
Doha
Awsaj Academy hosted an event titled ‘From Awsaj to Al Fakhoora’ on Thursday to raise funds for the Al Fakhoora School in Gaza. The event, held in Qatar Foundation’s (QF) Education City, featured an array of activities, including stalls where students sold their handmade artworks and traditional food, as well as poetry readings and a play recital, giving attendees the opportunity to experience Palestine’s culture and heritage.
Raja Al-Shalabi, director of Inclusion, Student Welfare, Community Partnership at Awsaj Academy – part of QF’s Pre-University Education – said: “At Awsaj Academy, we believe that education is the cornerstone of personal and societal growth. This event is not just a fundraiser; it’s a bridge of hope and support, extending from the heart of Qatar to the resilient students of Gaza.
“Through ‘From Awsaj to Al Fakhoora’, we aim to empower the young minds in the Al Fakhoora School by providing them with the resources they need to learn.
“Our event focuses on aiding Palestinian students. Despite the destruction of Al-Fakhoora school and the displacement of its students, our commitment stands firm – our aim is to help these children in Palestine who have missed out on learning opportunities, and we believe that through perseverance and collaboration, we can not only rebuild what was lost but create something even better.”
The event aimed to enhance children’s awareness of the challenges experienced by their people in Gaza, fostering a deeper understanding of the ongoing situation in the region.
Ali Saeed Al-Ghaithani, a 16-year-old student at Awsaj Academy, said: “Education is a right, not a privilege. In the face of war and destruction, it remains our most powerful weapon. By supporting education, we arm minds with knowledge, resilience with hope, and rebuild what conflict cannot destroy.”
Shahad Al-Janahi, 17-years-old and studying at Awsaj Academy, said: “We deeply empathize with the struggles of children in Palestine, feeling their trials as if they were our own. Just as I cherish my right to learn, I firmly believe they are equally entitled to this fundamental right. In solidarity, we stand with them, committed to supporting their journey of learning.”
Abdulrahman Al Kuwari, an 18-year-old student at Awsaj Academy, said: “Our collective efforts in gathering donations will contribute to the restoration of Al Fakhoora School in Gaza. Engaging in these activities has not only deepened my understanding of the Palestinian issue but has also reminded me of the blessings in my own life that others may lack.”
All proceeds from the event will be given to the Education Above All Foundation initiative, Al Fakhoora.
