Qatar Foundation (QF) has announced a new uniform policy that will embrace the rich Qatari culture by incorporating traditional attire into the dress code of Qatari students in grades six to twelve. This decision, reported by Al Raya News, aims to foster a sense of cultural belonging and pride among Qatari students while promoting Qatar’s heritage.
Starting from the upcoming academic year, Qatari students attending pre-university schools under Qatar Foundation, with the exception of Qatar Leadership Academy, will be required to wear the traditional Qatari attire consisting of the thobe, ghitra, and headband.
The thobe is a long, white garment with buttoned sleeves, commonly worn by men in Qatar and the Gulf region. Complementing the thobe, the ghitra is a long white material held in place by an e’gal, a circular black piece. By incorporating these elements into the uniform, Qatar Foundation aims to celebrate and preserve Qatari culture.
Parents of pre-university students have been informed of this new uniform policy, which highlights Qatar Foundation’s commitment to promoting cultural heritage. QF believes that by embracing the traditional attire, students will develop a stronger sense of cultural identity and belonging.
It is a significant step toward preserving Qatar’s cultural legacy, especially in a time when global events like the 2022 FIFA World Cup have showcased Qatar’s vibrant culture to millions of visitors.
While Qatari students are obliged to wear the traditional Qatari attire, non-Qatari students attending the pre-university schools have the option to either adhere to the regular uniform or choose to wear the traditional attire. This inclusive approach allows non-Qatari students to engage with and appreciate Qatari culture while still having the freedom to express their own identities.
It is worth noting that the uniform policy for female students and students below the sixth grade will remain unchanged. The decision to introduce the traditional Qatari attire exclusively for Qatari students in higher grades is a significant step toward instilling a sense of pride and cultural heritage among the younger generation.
This announcement comes on the heels of Qatar’s bid to include the traditional cloak known as the bisht in the upcoming World Heritage Day in 2024. The bisht holds immense cultural significance and is considered a symbol of royalty, representing the region’s ancient heritage. Qatar’s continued efforts to preserve and promote its cultural heritage through initiatives like these showcase its commitment to maintaining a strong sense of identity and pride.
By integrating traditional attire into the pre-university school uniform, Qatar Foundation is not only celebrating Qatar’s cultural heritage but also fostering an environment that embraces diversity and promotes cross-cultural understanding. This move is a testament to Qatar’s dedication to preserving its traditions while providing an inclusive educational experience for all students.
In conclusion, Qatar Foundation’s decision to incorporate traditional Qatari attire into the dress code of Qatari students in grades six to twelve reflects a commitment to preserving cultural heritage and instilling a sense of pride in Qatari identity.
This initiative allows students to celebrate their culture and heritage while promoting cross-cultural understanding among a diverse student body. Qatar Foundation’s efforts align with the nation’s broader goals of preserving its rich cultural legacy and creating an inclusive society that cherishes its traditions. Surced from Al Raya News