Geneva: HE Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar to the United Nations Office in Geneva, Dr. Hind Abdulrahman Al Muftah, participated in a roundtable on “Equity in Education,” organized by QatarDebate and the University of Geneva. In her address, she highlighted education as a fundamental human right and not a privilege, underscoring its role in empowering individuals to develop basic skills and exercise their rights.
According to Qatar News Agency, Dr. Al Muftah stressed that education is a foundational element of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and benefits both individuals and societies by providing essential knowledge and skills for development. She emphasized that education is crucial for global recovery, achieving Sustainable Development Goals, building resilient societies, and addressing contemporary challenges like the green transition and digital transformation.
Dr. Al Muftah pointed out the urgency of achieving equality in education, which involves ensuring equitable outcomes and tailoring resources to diverse needs. This aligns with Goal 4 of the Sustainable Development Goals. She reaffirmed Qatar’s commitment to education, noting the country’s investment in a distinguished education system and its efforts to promote equal access and gender equality.
She highlighted Qatar’s international role in advancing education initiatives, including the introduction of UN General Assembly resolutions affirming the right to education in emergencies and designating the International Day to Protect Education from Attack. Additionally, Qatar has supported initiatives like the Safe Schools Declaration and the Global Coalition to Protect Education from Attack.
The roundtable aimed to foster dialogue on achieving educational justice, bringing together youth, academics, experts, and civil society representatives. Discussions addressed challenges such as conflicts, social disparities, mental health issues, and obstacles facing displaced children. The panel also considered the role of technology and media in promoting educational justice.
Al Reem Al Aqili, moderator from QatarDebate Center, emphasized the session as a platform to connect academic expertise with youth voices, reflecting a shared commitment to educational justice and building a more equitable world. The session coincided with the International Day to Protect Education from Attack, focusing on developing the education system with influential global figures.