MSDF Highlights Senior Citizens' Creativity and Community Contributions
The Ministry of Social Development and Family, represented by the Department of Community Care, participated in the "Dirwaza" event in collaboration with the Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art. The event took place on Thursday, January 15, at the museum’s headquarters.
During the opening ceremony, Ms. Kulthum Behzad, a senior member of the "Qudarat" Development Center, delivered a moving speech on the authenticity and modernity of Arab art. She emphasized the importance of bridging the past and present by involving senior citizens—referred to as "Kibar al-Qadr" (Seniors of Status)—not merely as visitors, but as active partners. She noted that seniors are an integral part of the social fabric, carrying rich experiences that help transfer knowledge to contemporary generations. Ms. Behzad also expressed her gratitude to the Ministry for its sincere efforts in supporting seniors and persons with disabilities, driven by a deep belief in the importance of their empowerment and social integration.
The opening featured students from the Audio Education Complex, who performed the National Anthem using sign language. Through this collaboration, the Ministry aims to strengthen community communication for target groups and consolidate national identity through a fusion of culture, language, and art. This was reflected in the "Timeline" (Khatt al-Zaman) activity, presented by artist Issa Yousef Fakhroo, which focused on the beauty of ancient Arabic calligraphy. This activity aimed to explore the history, techniques, and cultural importance of calligraphy through styles such as Muhaqqaq, Riqa’, Thuluth, Naskh, Nasta’liq, and Rayhan, while explaining the historical Arab interest in this art form.
Regarding creativity and heritage, a workshop titled "Golden Heritage Fingers" was held at the "Handprint" (Athar Yad) corner of the exhibition accompanying the "Dirwaza" event. The workshop was led by Ms. Aisha Abdullah Al-Kubaisi, Ms. Maryam Rashid Al-Kubaisi, Ms. Jamila Nasser Khalifa, and Ms. Saliha Abdullah Al-Hitmi, all members of the Ihsan Center (Azghawa branch). The tools used in the workshop varied from wool and mats to small mirrors, traditional lanterns (Fanar), fabric, and cardboard boxes. This session promoted the principles of recycling and sensory creativity while representing authentic Qatari identity and heritage. The workshop targeted senior women from the Ihsan Center and was highly successful, with 30 women in attendance.
Ms. Reem Khalifa Al-Ajmi, Director of the Community Care Department at the Ministry, stated: "The Ministry of Social Development and Family strives to highlight the role of our seniors and leverage their expertise for comprehensive development. We reaffirm our commitment to prioritizing them in our social policies, enabling their participation in public life, and providing the best care as they are an inseparable part of the family and society. This participation aligns with Qatar National Vision 2030."
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