Doha: The Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MOEHE), in collaboration with Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), inaugurated Al Jiwan Kindergarten for Early Intervention. This institution is designed to merge specialized rehabilitation with formal education within an integrated and supportive environment.
According to Qatar News Agency, the opening ceremony saw the presence of several dignitaries, including HE Minister of Education and Higher Education Lolwah bint Rashid bin Mohammed Al Khater; HE Minister of Social Development and Family Buthaina bint Ali Al Jabr Al Nuaimi; HE President of the Civil Service and Government Development Bureau Dr. Abdulaziz bin Nasser bin Mubarak Al Khalifa; and HE Managing Director of HMC Mohammed bin Khalifa bin Mohammed Al Suwaidi. Numerous educational and healthcare professionals were also in attendance.
HE the Minister of Education and Higher Education, in her address, highlighted that the establishment of Al Jiwan Kindergarten signifies a national initiative and reflects a robust partnership between MOEHE and HMC. She underscored the complementary nature of education and healthcare in serving students and reiterated the state's commitment to providing every child, especially those with disabilities, access to education and care.
Her Excellency emphasized that the Ministry's responsibility extends beyond merely providing educational access to empowering students, fostering independence, and promoting effective integration from early childhood. This approach aims to build a just and equitable future. She expressed gratitude to the staff of HMC and MOEHE for their contributions to the project's success, which has resulted in a comprehensive educational and rehabilitation environment.
She also introduced the "Masari Special" program for inclusive education, ensuring students with disabilities have suitable educational pathways. Al Jiwan Kindergarten is an extension of this initiative, akin to models such as Warif Academy, developed with Qatar Foundation. Her Excellency stressed the humanitarian aspect of early intervention, advocating for a supportive learning environment for every child.
Concluding her remarks, HE Lolwah bint Rashid Al Khater reaffirmed the inclusive nature of education in Qatar and the importance of institutional integration for progress. She expressed hope that Al Jiwan Kindergarten would serve as a pioneering model for similar initiatives across Qatar.
Director of the Special Education and Inclusive Education Department at MOEHE, Fatima Saeed Al Saadi, highlighted that Al Jiwan Kindergarten is a leader in early intervention, blending education and therapeutic support. The curriculum focuses on developing developmental, social, linguistic, and pre-academic skills, with a preparatory class ensuring a smooth transition to later educational stages.
Al Saadi detailed the kindergarten's unique services for students with intellectual disabilities and cochlear implant recipients, aiming for successful integration into schools. The daily schedule includes educational, rehabilitation, therapeutic, and recreational activities, tailored to each student's individual plan.
The ceremony concluded with a tour of the kindergarten led by HE the Minister of Education and Higher Education and the delegation, showcasing the programs available to students in preparation for their integration into the educational system.