The Qatar Precision Health Institute (QPHI), a national center under Qatar Foundation (QF), has strengthened its strategic collaboration with QF’s Pre-University Education (PUE) division by launching engaging educational workshops and activities designed for primary school students.
Guided by a shared vision to inspire, educate, and empower young learners in Qatar and beyond, QPHI and PUE have partnered to develop innovative programs and interactive learning experiences that build early understanding of genome science. These initiatives aim to spark curiosity and equip students with the skills needed to advance precision health in the future.
Among the key initiatives is Genome Heroes, an educational game developed by the Genomics Education team at QPHI’s Qatar Genome Program, with contributions from students across QF schools. Available in Arabic and English, it is the Middle East’s first educational game to simplify genome science for primary school audiences and the wider community.
QPHI and PUE are rolling out the game and related activities across QF schools, offering students in grades 1 through 6 an immersive way to explore genome science fundamentals. A range of additional workshops will further deepen their understanding and nurture critical thinking.
“Our collaboration with PUE is a vital step towards creating a strong scientific foundation among young learners,” said Dr. Wadha Al Muftah, Senior Director, Genome Program at QPHI. “Together with our partners, we are committed to cultivating future leaders in science and research. These efforts are key to building national capacity and driving innovation.”
Mehdi Benchaabane, Executive Director of Qatar Foundation IB Schools, highlighted the importance of introducing genome science to students early on: “This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to delivering impactful educational experiences that prepare students to meet future challenges and seize new opportunities. At Qatar Foundation’s IB schools, we prioritize inquiry-based learning, encouraging students to question, think critically, and apply their knowledge to real-world contexts.”
Benchaabane added that initiatives like Genome Heroes and its associated workshops help strengthen students’ scientific understanding while developing essential skills such as problem-solving and independent thinking. “Such programs are more than investments in education—they are catalysts for building an innovation-driven economy and reinforcing Qatar’s role as a leader in health and life sciences,” he said.
This partnership underscores QPHI and PUE’s dedication to empowering students with the knowledge, confidence, and curiosity to lead in science and innovation, particularly in the rapidly evolving field of genome science.
Note: The Genome Heroes game is now available globally in Arabic and English on the Apple Store and Google Play.
About Qatar Precision Health Institute
Qatar Precision Health Institute (QPHI) is a national center for research and implementation under Qatar Foundation. It is dedicated to advancing precision healthcare through genomics and multi-omics research. Building on over a decade of achievements by Qatar Biobank and Qatar Genome, QPHI leads efforts to prevent and treat health issues using personalized approaches—ultimately fostering healthier, more vibrant communities.
Press release