One of QF's early students reflects on transformative learning journey

Qatar Tribune

27-05-2025

Tribune News Network
Doha
As Qatar Foundation (QF) marks its 30th anniversary, and prepares to celebrate the latest batch of graduates from the schools within its ecosystem, Dr Maryam Al Mahmoud reflects on a journey that stretches back almost three decades, and began with her becoming a part of QF history.
Now a surgeon and accomplished equestrian, as a 16-year-old she was part of the first class of students enrolled at Qatar Academy Doha (QAD) – the first school to be established by QF. And today, both Dr Al Mahmoud and her dreams have grown – just as QF has.
Ahead of this week's QF Schools Commencement ceremony, which will honour the Class of 2025 graduates from schools under QF's Pre-University Education, Dr Al Mahmoud looks back on her time at QAD, which began in 1995, saying: 'The school was launched gradually – the idea was to introduce it to society slowly and build interest first.
'We began our studies in a small compound called Al Ali, and about a year-and-a-half later, once the new Qatar Academy building was completed, we moved there. We felt we were part of a national milestone.
'At the time, Qatar's education system was largely segregated – some schools followed a fully English curriculum, while others taught exclusively in Arabic. QF's leadership then introduced the visionary idea of bridging this gap between the two systems. It was something entirely new and transformative. That's how Qatar Academy Doha was born.'
Reflecting on the early days of the school, Dr Al Mahmoud shares a special memory of her first day at school – an experience that marked the beginning of a transformative journey. 'I was the youngest in my batch,' she says. 'We were just 11 students from different backgrounds – some from English-speaking schools, others, like myself, from Arabic schools.
'However, my English was strong, and the education approach was exhilarating. I was in a place where communication with teachers was encouraged – that was revolutionary. In most schools back then, students and teachers were so separate; we could barely talk to our teachers. At Qatar Academy Doha, we were treated like young adults. It was empowering to have that level of dialogue at that age.'
By integrating extracurricular activities into the learning experience, QF's ecosystem goes beyond traditional classroom education, offering students meaningful opportunities to explore their passions and develop a broad range of skills.
And speaking about those she learned with at QAD, she says: 'My friends from QF have each followed their own paths in life. When I come across one of their names – whether in a newspaper, at a ministry, or through word of mouth – I feel proud of them. They've all achieved so much, and it's especially inspiring knowing that each one of them has grown into a remarkably successful woman.
'If there's one thing I would say to the new generation of QF graduates this year, it's to let your dedication and passion guide you. And as QF celebrates 30 years, I want to congratulate everyone involved in this remarkable accomplishment.
'QF planted the first seed decades ago, and not only has it realized its vision – it has exceeded it. I'm grateful to QF for laying the stepping stones that helped me become the person I am today.'