Two more international schools launched

Source: The Peninsula
The Supreme Education Council embarked on yet another pursuit of educational excellence by launching two leading international academic institutions, the Michael E DeBakey High School for Health Professions in Qatar (DHSHP@Q) and International School of London in Qatar (ISLQatar), yesterday at Sharq Village

The event marked the inauguration of SEC's 'Outstanding Schools Initiative', which is aimed at attracting the most outstanding schools around the world to replicate their programmes in Qatar, and in so doing help Qatari graduates prepare for success at the university level and support Qatar's commitment for world class education.

In connection with the initiative, the SEC formed the Outstanding Schools Oversight Committee (OSOC), headed by Dr Ibrahim Saleh Al Naimi. During the launch Dr Al Naimi elaborated on the necessity of the project, underlining the 12 percent annual rise in the demand for private schools. He said the programme would provide variety and choice for Qataris as well as enough space to accommodate students.

He also enumerated the criteria to be met by applicant schools, namely: longstanding history of proven success, a recognised international or national curriculum, contributions to the local community and reasonable fee structure.

During his presentation ISLQatar Head of School Richard Hermon emphasized the school's objective which is to recognize individuality and celebrate diversity. The school will offer an international curriculum through the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme.

Speaking to The Peninsula, Richard Hermon said, "Our expectation is that we would have a vibrant school which will attract in all sorts of people from all aspects of Qatari life, we prefer an international blend of students but at the same time we are in Qatar so we must respect the Qatari culture."

"We see Qatar as an exciting place, developing and changing and we believe that soon we will be part of that development and change," he added.

Michael E. DeBakey High School for Health Professions in Qatar (DHSHP@Q), President and CEO Dr Charlesetta Deason presented the outstanding achievements of the high school highlighting the different programmes it offers.

"I'm excited about the opportunity, but also there's the challenge, We have to be certain that we do our best job because all eyes would be on us, but I think we are off to that challenge and we'll work very hard to make this the very best opportunity for the Qataris as well as expatriate students here in Qatar," Dr Deason said.