P7 P16Community - Gulf Times

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Sunday, May 13, 2018 Sha’baan 27, 1439 AH Community Bangladesh MHM School & College students excel in annual Secondary School Certificate examination. P7 P16 Community Seiichi Otsuka, Ambassador of Japan to Qatar, donates books to Tariq Bin Ziyad Independent Secondary School. Bold and beautiful COVER STORY Huma Qureshi fires salvos on #MeToo, women’s rights. P4-5 DOHA 31°C—40°C TODAY PUZZLES 12 & 13 D LIFESTYLE/HOROSCOPE 14 L P

Transcript of P7 P16Community - Gulf Times

Sunday, May 13, 2018Sha’baan 27, 1439 AH

CommunityBangladesh MHM School & College

students excel in annual Secondary School Certificate examination.

P7 P16 CommunitySeiichi Otsuka, Ambassador of Japan to

Qatar, donates books to Tariq Bin Ziyad Independent Secondary School.

Bold and beautiful

COVERSTORY

Huma Qureshi fires salvos on

#MeToo, women’s rights. P4-5

DOHA 31°C—40°C TODAY PUZZLES 12 & 13D LIFESTYLE/HOROSCOPE 14LP

Sunday, May 13, 20182 GULF TIMES

COMMUNITY ROUND & ABOUT

Community EditorKamran Rehmat

e-mail: [email protected]: 44466405

Fax: 44350474

Emergency 999Worldwide Emergency Number 112Kahramaa – Electricity and Water 991Local Directory 180International Calls Enquires 150Hamad International Airport 40106666Labor Department 44508111, 44406537Mowasalat Taxi 44588888Qatar Airways 44496000Hamad Medical Corporation 44392222, 44393333Qatar General Electricity and Water Corporation 44845555, 44845464Primary Health Care Corporation 44593333 44593363 Qatar Assistive Technology Centre 44594050Qatar News Agency 44450205 44450333Q-Post – General Postal Corporation 44464444

Humanitarian Services Offi ce (Single window facility for the repatriation of bodies)Ministry of Interior 40253371, 40253372, 40253369Ministry of Health 40253370, 40253364Hamad Medical Corporation 40253368, 40253365Qatar Airways 40253374

USEFUL NUMBERS

Quote Unquote

PRAYER TIMEFajr 3.26amShorooq (sunrise) 4.50amZuhr (noon) 11.30amAsr (afternoon) 2.57pmMaghreb (sunset) 6.12pmIsha (night) 7.42pm

You learn more from failure than

from success. Don’t let it stop you. Failure builds character.

— Unknown

You Were Never Really HereDIRECTION: Lynne RamsayCAST: Joaquin Phoenix, Dante

Pereira-Olson, Larry CanadySYNOPSIS: A traumatised veteran,

unafraid of violence, tracks down missing girls for a living. When a job spins out of control, Joe’s nightmares overtake him as a conspiracy is uncovered leading to what may be

his death trip or his awakening. Joe has witnessed things that cannot be erased.

THEATRES: Landmark, Royal Plaza

Raazi DIRECTION: Meghna GulzarCAST: Alia Bhatt, Vicky Kaushal, Jaideep AhlawatSYNOPSIS: Raazi (Agree), based on a true story, is an

adaptation of Harinder Sikka’s novel Calling Sehmat, about a Kashmiri spy married to a Pakistani man during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971. It depicts the journey of an ordinary Indian girl, under extraordinary circumstances. Sehmat

(Aalia Bhatt), is sent to Pakistan in 1971, to source out any information she could, as war was becoming imminent between India and Pakistan. Vicky Kaushal, who plays a Pakistani Army offi cer in Raazi, says he felt more responsible while narrating the character on-screen because the forthcoming fi lm is based on a series of true stories and real life people.

THEATRES: The Mall, Landmark, Royal Plaza

The Mall Cinema (1): ISLE Of Dogs (2D) 12pm; Raazi (Hindi) 2pm; Peter Rabbit (2D) 4:30pm; Irumbu Thirai (Tamil) 6:15pm; Raazi (Hindi) 9pm; Raazi (Hindi) 11:30pm.The Mall Cinema (2): Kammara Sambhavam (Malayalam) 12pm; Kammara Sambhavam (Malayalam) 3pm; Terminal (2D) 6pm; Life Of The Party (2D) 7:45pm; Bad Samaritan (2D) 9:45pm; Bent (2D) 11:45pm.The Mall Cinema (3): Raazi (Hindi) 11:30am; ISLE Of Dogs (2D) 2pm; Life Of The Party (2D) 4pm; Avengers: Infinity War (2D) 6pm; Kammara Sambhavam (Malayalam) 8:45pm; Irumbu Thirai (Tamil) 11:45pm.Landmark Cinema (1): Raazi

(Hindi) 2:15pm; Horoub Mofaji2 (Arabic) 4:45pm; Breaking In (2D) 6:15pm; Irumbu Thirai (Tamil) 7:45pm; Kammara Sambhavam (Malayalam) 10:30pm.Landmark Cinema (2): ISLE Of Dogs (2D) 2:30pm; ISLE Of Dogs (2D) 4:30pm; ISLE Of Dogs (2D) 6:30pm; Bad Samaritan (2D) 8:30pm; Irumbu Thirai (Tamil) 10:30pm.Landmark Cinema (3): Kammara Sambhavam (Malayalam) 2:15pm; Life Of The Party (2D) 5:15pm; Life Of The Party (2D) 7:15pm; Raazi (Hindi) 9pm; You Were Never

Really Here (2D) 11:30pm.Royal Plaza Cinema Palace (1): Kammara Sambhavam (Malayalam) 2pm; Raazi (Hindi) 5pm; You Were Never Really Here (2D) 7:30pm; Life Of The Party (2D) 9:30pm; Raazi (Hindi) 11:30pm.Royal Plaza Cinema Palace (2): ISLE Of Dogs (2D) 2pm; Qosty Byogaani (Arabic) 3:45pm; Kammara Sambhavam (Malayalam) 5:45pm; Avengers: Infinity War (2D) 8:45pm; Kammara Sambhavam (Malayalam) 11:30pm.Royal Plaza Cinema Palace (3): Horoob Mofagi2 (Arabic) 2:30pm; My Pure Land (Urdu) 4:15pm; Bent (2D) 6pm; Breaking In (2D) 7:45pm; Terminal (2D) 9:30pm; Irumbu Thirai (Tamil) 11:15pm.

3Sunday, May 13, 2018 GULF TIMES

COMMUNITYROUND & ABOUT

Compiled by Nausheen Shaikh. E-mail: [email protected], Events and timings subject to change

EVENTS

Beautiful to Eat, Good to Look AtWHERE: KataraWHEN: TodayTIME: 10am-10pmAn exhibition, featuring artist Elisabetta

Farina, is presented by Cultural Village Foundation – Katara in co-operation with the Embassy of Italy in Qatar.

Explore your talent with usWHERE: Mystic Arts Centre behind Al

Hilal Focus Medical CentreWHEN: Wednesday to MondayMystic Art Centre, is a holistic performing

arts institution and a one-stop solution for adults as well as children looking to explore their talents in various art forms. We off er classes in Carnatic Music, Hindustani Music, Karate, Yoga, Zumba, Classical Dance, Salsa, Hip Hop, contemporary and Bollywood dance forms. Personalised lessons, effi cient mentoring and exposure to stage helps our learner to walk out as a confi dent performer at the end of their course. For further details, call 44723680 | 33897609.

Dance and instrument classesWHERE: TCA Campus, Behind Gulf Times

BuildingWHEN: Wednesday-MondayCome and learn the movements of dance

styles in Bollywood, Hip Hop and also the musical instruments such as Piano, Guitar, Keyboard for adults as well kids and move in the world of music. Classes will run on a regular basis on weekends and weekdays. For details contact 66523871/ 31326749.

Outdoor and fi ve-a-side football pitches

WHERE: Aspire ZoneWHEN: DailyTIME: 7pm-11pmAspire Zone’s fi ve-a-side football outdoor

pitches opposite Al Waab Street are available every day from 7pm until 11pm from Sundays to Thursdays, and on Fridays and Saturdays from 7am-11pm.

Mahaseel FestivalWHEN: Thu, Fri, SatWHERE: KataraTIME: 9am-10pmVisitors to the festival can expect a

variety of products from local vegetables, flowers, honey and meat, poultry and diary items. For those of you looking for traditional Qatari food, there will also be stalls selling homemade foods such as Machbous. Farm-grown goods include aubergines, peppers, cucumbers, tomatoes, courgettes, cauliflower, herbs, and chilies. There are also animal products such as chicken, milk, cheese and eggs from Qatari companies like Baladna and Al Waha Poultry Company.

B.Square Mall Grand EventWHERE: Al Thumama, DohaWHEN: OngoingTIME: 6:30pmThe only mall in Qatar dedicated to

entertainment, B.Square Mall will occupy a total space of 26,000 sq.m and 250 car parking spaces, as well as provide a range of shopping, services, and entertainment options.

Torba Farmers MarketWHERE: Education CityWHEN: OngoingTIME: 9amQatar Foundation (QF) has partnered

with Torba Farmers Market, a Qatar-based initiative that aims to deliver organic and locally-grown food and homemade products, to host a weekly market in Education City. Open to the public, the market be held at QF’s Ceremonial Court, accessible from gate 2, every Thursday from 9am-4pm and every Friday from 8am-11am and 2pm-5pm.The name ‘Torba’ is derived from Arabic, and means “the pure soil that feeds, nourishes, and nurtures.” A wide range of fresh, locally-grown items will be on offer, including organic fruits and vegetables, homemade preserves, syrups, and butters, as well as handicrafts and gardening supplies.

Zumba SessionWHERE: Bin Omran WHEN: Sundays TIME: 7pm - 8pmParticipate in Zumba Sessions (Adults)

every Sunday. For more information call 33003839 or [email protected]

Salsa NightsWHERE: The Irish Harp-Sheraton Grand

Doha WHEN: Every WednesdayTIME: 9pmGet ready for some Latin beats every

Wednesday night, where all the salseros and salseras in town meet and party all night. Entry is QR50 for gents. Ladies enter free. For details call 4485 3000.

Off -Road biking tourWHERE: ZekreetWHEN: FridaysBlue Pearl Experience Qatar is off ering the

country’s fi rst off -road biking tour. Ride in the desert on a fat bike to explore the local fl ora and fauna spot desert wildlife, hike up jebels,

chill in the magic of the Richard Serra statues and this unique landscape. Participants will get to cross the desert riding fat bikes from Zekreet to the Richard Serra statues, on a route of approximately 13kms. The route is easy to ride and suitable for people with average fi tness. You must be able to ride. Kids aged 9 and older are also welcome. The fee is QR 220 (QR190 for ages 9-14) and includes bike and safety equipment. The activity lasts about 2.5 hours.

Arab and German Tales Exhibition WHERE: Qatar National LibraryWHEN: Until August 18The exhibition is organised within the

framework of Qatar–Germany Year of Culture and provides an insight into the history of Arabic and German fairy and folk tales, and how the two traditions infl uenced each other. It aims to show the transcultural value of narrative traditions as a shared intangible cultural heritage and highlight mutual infl uences, shared ideas and cultural transfer between the Arab world and Germany through storytelling and tales.

Extreme Desert ShowWHEN: OngoingTIME: 1:30pm - 6:30pmExperience the desert in a real traditional way. It includes a desert safari, dune bashing

and a trip to inland sea. Watch a thrilling Extreme Desert Show only for QR170 per person. Call 3339 3323 for more inquiries.

Remote-controlled car racing trackWHERE: Aspire ParkWHEN: Thu, Fri, SatTIME: 4pm-10pmAspire Zone Foundation has created a custom-made track specially designed for remote-

control car racing, for car lovers across Doha. Interested motorsport enthusiasts can try the race track opposite the Aspire Academy, from 4pm to 10pm on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.

Breakdance ClassesWHEN: Sunday-WednesdayBreakdancing is part of the Hip Hop culture that originated in New York and has since

spread all over the world. Breakdancing is an athletic and acrobatic style of dancing, which can often appear to defy the laws of physics. This extreme dance-sport uses tremendous upper-body strength for tricks and poses and a great way to get into shape and have fun. Register now by calling 33003839 or e-mail [email protected]

Sunday, May 13, 20184 GULF TIMES

COMMUNITY COVER STORY

SUNDAY CONVERSATION

“I have had to deal with people making

advances at me”

CANDID: “If a woman is saying something out loud, she is asking for help and you have no business character assassinating her,” says Huma Qureshi.

By Ranvir S. Nayar

Actress Huma Qureshi says she has had to deal with people making sexual advances at her, not

only in the cinema industry but by people from diff erent professions.

Asked about sexual exploitation and harassment of women, Huma said: “Well, as a woman, absolutely, I have had to deal with people making advances at me, but not just people from the business

of fi lm industry, but people across diff erent professions and diff erent strata. I think it has a lot to do with power, it is not only limited to the fi lm business.”

Appearing at the 71st Cannes Film Festival as a brand ambassador, Huma engaged in a freewheeling interview on the #MeToo movement, freedom of expression and the situation of women in India, besides her own journey

She said for many women at the receiving end, it becomes diffi cult to come out and speak. “In India and elsewhere in the world, the

A lot of issues

that we have in the world today rise

from the fact that we do not know enough

about each other’s cultures

—Huma Qureshi, Bollywood actress

5Sunday, May 13, 2018 GULF TIMES

COMMUNITYCOVER STORY

moment a woman speaks out against harassment, people sort of start making all sorts of character judgments about her, about her morality, about what she was wearing and all such things and I think that is not fair,” she added.

“If a woman is saying something out loud, she is asking for help and you have no business character assassinating her. You have to reach out to her and help her and protect her and I think we need to protect our women and we need to protect our children.”

On the spate of incidents involving rapes of minors in India, Huma said the incidents showed the need for a major change, and from within. “Only laws cannot help, the change has to be more profound and more voluntary and from within,” she said.

Huma also emphasised on the need to open up the world of cinema to the common people, adding that the global cinema needed to be democratised to make not only watching fi lms more accessible, but also to allow more people to make fi lms and show them to the world.

The actress touched upon the point of democratisation of cinema during her speech too at the inauguration of the India Pavilion.

“I think it is happening and it should happen. One thing is that more and more people are turning to digital, which of course, makes the whole thing far cheaper and hence fi lmmaking is no longer a protected, elitist, closed medium anymore. More and more people now have access to making fi lms and watching fi lms. I think it is so important,” she said.

“A lot of issues that we have in the world today rise from the fact that we do not know enough about each other’s cultures, that we

don’t respect each other’s origins and there is so much negativity and strife around because we don’t know where the other person is coming from.

“A lot of this would be quelled if we are able to embrace each other in terms of traditions, culture, language, food, beliefs and dress. Cinema has the ability to transcend all these diff erences,” she added.

For the Gangs Of Wasseypur, Luv Shuv Tey Chicken Khurana, Dedh Ishqiya and Viceroy’s House actress, coming back to Cannes is special as it was here that her fi rst fi lm Gangs of Wasseypur was screened six years ago.

“It was literally like a dream come true. I did not even for a moment think that a fi lm about gangsters from India and that too set in that period and in the heartland, a place like Wasseypur, would fi nd a resonance with the French or global audience. But I remember the screening over here and it was a very special occasion,” she said.

“We got a standing ovation and after we had people talking to us about how the fi lm touched them or how they were able to connect with the fi lm. And that for me was very heartening as it taught me that fi lms which talk about your own culture, but with a global perspective will always fi nd resonance across the world,” she added.

On her fi lmography, Huma said she has been enjoying herself, doing diff erent kinds of roles and working in diff erent languages.

“I am very excited about the work I am doing right now, I am very excited about the people with who I am working. I keep constantly looking for projects that are challenging. A lot of

people complain that I do less work, but I don’t want to keep repeating myself and keep doing the same thing again and again. I don’t want to be the biggest movie star in the world. I just want to be the happiest! (laughs)”

Huma was blunt when asked about the spate of attacks on fi lms and fi lmmakers in India.

“That kind of hooliganism should not be tolerated by any government. I think fi lm as a medium has always been at the receiving end from everybody and it is sad as fi lms are meant to entertain and help you transcend to another place and culture,” she said.

Huma was of the view that any culture where there is no free exchange of ideas, where there is no free art, that culture itself is not free in any sense. The attacks have to be “constantly kept in check if we want to continue to remain a democratic and a free country,” she added.

Talking of the Cannes Film Festival, she says she is proud to be a part of it.

“I’m very proud to be part of the celebration of cinema at a global platform like the Cannes Film Festival 2018,” the actress said in a statement.

To mark the 71st Cannes Film Festival, a premium brand celebrated cinematic excellence through its global platform for the celebration of cinematic craft, Vive Le Cinema!

The brand hosted some of the fi nest stars of the Indian fi lm and media industry namely Kangana Ranaut, Jim Sarbh along with Huma in the French Riviera.

The Bollywood celebrities were part of 40 prominent infl uencers hosted by the brand from across the globe. — IANS

A lot of people complain that I do less work, but I don’t want to keep repeating myself and keep doing the same thing again and again. I don’t want to be the biggest movie star in the world. I just want to be the happiest!

STAR-TURN: Huma Qureshi during a photo-call at the 71st Cannes Film Festival.

mommentagainnst hstart mmakjudgmmentmorallity, awearinng anthink tthat i

“If aa womout looud, sheyou hhave no bassasssinatingreacchh out to heprototect her andprrootect our wompprotect our chil

On the spate oinvolving rapes oHuma said the inthe need for afr

Sunday, May 13, 20186 GULF TIMES

COMMUNITYSIS Junior Section holds orientation for parentsThe junior section of Shantiniketan Indian School (SIS) recently organised an orientation session for the parents to keep them abreast of the school’s policies, norms and processes. The session opened with Heena Imran Dhondne, Head Teacher, highlighting the practices of the school leading into presentations on the assessment system. She also spoke about importance of health,

hygiene and the school’s discipline policies. Dr Subhash Nair, SIS Principal, encouraged the parents for increased participation and shared the importance of their role in the academic wellness of their children. The session ended with Dudley O’Connor, Vice Principal, thanking the parents for their presence and support.

BPS celebrates English Language DayBirla Public School (BPS) recently celebrated English Day in recognition of the 147th birth anniversary of Rabindranath Tagore, a famous Indian writer. A précis on the writer and poet was presented to the students. A special assembly was conducted by Grade-XI students. It began with prayer rendered by Bhumika, a student of Grade-XI/J. Suja Tharoor, KG Co-ordinator, spoke about the influence of the English language and stressed the importance of reading. The KG children presented two creative programmes. A short story of the Dove and the Ant conveyed the moral of helping the needy. An action song conveyed the importance of smiling, clapping and being happy. Meanwhile, the BPS boys’ team, comprising Sai Prajwal, Sarthak Behal, Joshua Fernandes, Anzar Juned, Aniket Panda and Rohan Philip, was recognised for achieving the second

position in the recently concluded Qatar School Debate League. They handed over the school trophy and certificate to A P Sharma, BPS Principal, who addressed the assembly and encouraged the students to increase their knowledge and vocabulary.The class bulletin boards showcased the importance of the language. Various activities for all the students from KG to Grade XII were organised. The students also took part in diff erent language games, made speeches on English language and literature, and presented short skits about the language. The day concluded with a reader’s workshop conducted by Lakshmi Devi, In-charge of English Department. The workshop focused on creative reading and exploiting the world of books for useful self-development.

DPS MIS retains ICC Ambassador’s Rolling TrophyIndian Cultural Centre (ICC), under the aegis of the Indian embassy, recently organised Mangalyaan Science and Technology Inter-School competition at Birla Public School. The competition was based on models on the theme ‘Non-Conventional Energy Sources’, followed by written test and quiz. The students of Grade IX, X and XI from various schools participated in the event.DPS-Modern Indian School (DPS-MIS) won the second prize in model-making competition. The school bagged the first position both in the written test and in the quiz. DPS-MIS emerged as the overall winner and picked the ICC Mangalyaan Ambassador’s Rolling Trophy for the second consecutive time.

7Sunday, May 13, 2018 GULF TIMES

COMMUNITYBangladesh MHM School & College students excel in SSC examinationBangladesh MHM School & College (MHMSC) recently notched up its results in the Secondary School Certificate (SSC) Examinations held in February, 2018 by the Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education, Dhaka. In total, 64 students passed the examination while 19 got GPA 5.00 and 35 others got GPA 4.00 or less. The pass percentage remained 100%. The students, who got GPA 5.00 are namely, Hafsa Begum, Sanjan Haque Zarin, Sumaiya Alam, Waziha Islam Reha, Samia Hasan, Rasika Sohel Shimla, Mymuna, Mohammed Syed Anwar, Farhan Shahriar, Sheikh Hasin Ishrak,

Hamza, Moinul Islam, Mohammed Sayem, Fahima Hashem, Ema, Mohammad Nasimul Haque Khan, Saad Bin Tauhid, Sakib Ahmed, and Masoma. Lt Cdre (Retired) Anwar Khurshid, Director of the institution, hailed all the students for showing brilliant results. He appreciated the students, who obtained the highest score of GPA-5.00. In his short speech, he thanked all the students, teachers and guardians for their combined eff orts and asked them to keep up the spirit in future. The chairman of the school also congratulated all the students and parents as well as the concerned teachers.

Farhan Shahriar EmaSakib Ahmed Samia Hasan

Sanjana Haque Waziha Islam RehaMohammad Nasimul Haque Khan Sheikh Hasin Ishrak Mohammad Syed Anwar

Hafsa Begum HamzaMymuna Moinul Islam Masoma

Rasika Sohel Shimla Sumaiya AlamMohammad Sayem Fahima Hashem Saad Bin Tauhid

Sunday, May 13, 20188 GULF TIMES

COMMUNITY MARKETING

City Centre Rotana Doha unveils Ramadan off ersC

ity Centre Rotana Doha, one of the leading hospitality properties in town, recently unveiled its

exclusive off ers for the auspicious month of Ramadan comprising unique packages at all the hotel’s facilities and outlets, states a press release.

The Iftar buff et off er at Almas Ramadan tent will include a wide selection of oriental as well as western cuisine, traditional Arabic and Ramadan sweets, live cooking stations, refreshments and juices in a lively atmosphere to live an authentic Ramadan experience. To relish the traditional Iftar delicacies, guests can make family reservations as well as group bookings.

During the Suhour feasts at the Ramadan tent, guests will get to relish cold Arabic Mezze specially curated by the chefs. This special meal would also include Hummus, Mutable, Tabouleh, Fattoush, Marinated olives and Arabic Mixed Pickles. Hot Mezze will also be served for guests on their tables and will off er Sawda Djej (Pan-fried Chicken liver with pomegranate and lemon sauce), Soujouk (Armenian seasoned sausage with tomato sauce), Grilled Marinated Halloumi cheese and Potato harra salad. Additionally, multiple live stations such as the Foul Mdammes station off ering traditional foul served with condiments and Arabic bread; the live Saj bread station serving the famous Saj bread with diverse toppings and fi llings like Labneh, Zatar, Olive oil, Halumi cheese, Muhammara, Cucumber and tomato, will satiate the guests’ taste buds. To top it all, the dates, dry fruits and nuts station will be also available for all guests at the centre of the Almas tent. To complete the meal, the guests will be spoilt for choice with an array of delicious Arabic sweets and international deserts counters.

‘Olive Oil’ all day dining restaurant will provide a luxurious Iftar buff et throughout the blessed month, which combines the distinctive oriental fl avours with delicious western cuisine as well as traditional authentic Arabic dishes.

Guests and visitors who prefer light food during Iftars, can have a wonderful experience at ‘Caramel’, which is known for its relaxing ambiance and upscale design and indulge themselves with oriental-inspired Ramadan delicacies, in addition to a wide selection of sandwiches, salads, delicious tea and coff ee varieties as well as a large assortment of homemade

desserts and sweet treats including Kunafa, Muhalabiya, French pastries and more.

Guests of City Centre Rotana Doha will get to avail a special discount of 30% and benefi t from the early bird off er when booking Iftar and Suhours for a group of 10 or more people before May 7. This is not all… If you are in a mood to host private Iftar and Suhour party, Zeituna, the renowned Lebanese restaurant at City Centre Rotana Doha, will be open for large and group bookings to off er gastronomic delight during the holy month.

The ‘Rotana Rewards Select’ members can enjoy their Iftar at ‘Olive Oil’ during Ramadan by availing 20% discount and pamper themselves with a rich buff et of oriental and international dishes surrounded by authentic Arabian hospitality.

Moreover, with an aim to encourage the society to remain fi t during the blessed month, City Centre Rotana Doha has initiated a special discount of 50% on the Bodylines Fitness & Wellness Club membership allowing members to have full access on all the Gym, Sauna, steam and jacuzzi facilities from 10pm till 5am and off ering them, at the same time, a 20% discount on food and beverage, 20% discount on the massage and spa treatments, and 40% discount on swimming lessons with the option of availing the personal trainer.

Additionally, to make this experience even more enriching during the holy month, City Centre Rotana Doha will upgrade all room reservations for all Rotana Rewards Exclusive members to the suites when reserving two nights with an additional discount of 50% in the hotel’s outlets for four people including Suhours and Iftars.

On this occasion, Martin Kendall, General Manager of City Centre Rotana Doha said, “The holy month of Ramadan is a very special time for families and friends to meet in a warm atmosphere and share Iftars or Suhours. So, we at City Centre Rotana Doha, aim to share the joy with all our guests and celebrate with them this blessed month by providing a variety of options starting from our Almas Ramadan tent, to our restaurants appealing offers, rooms upgrade to next category and the Bodylines memberships. People visiting the hotel during the holy month would be in for a surprise and we will make sure that they have the most treasured stay during their visit.”

9Sunday, May 13, 2018 GULF TIMES

COMMUNITY

ABP students recognised for taking part in Rota’s literacy programme

LEARNING: Participants learning English and Arabic languages during a Rota programme.

Under the umbrella of Pre-University Education, Academic Bridge Program (ABP) Student Volunteers were recently recognised by Reach Out To Asia

(Rota) a part of ‘Education Above All’ at a refl ection event held in the HBKU student Center, for their participation in the ‘Adult English and Arabic Literacy Programme’.

The programme was designed to teach workers English and Arabic in order to increase their ability to communicate with one another and the community they live

in. Two six-week courses were off ered in both semesters with over 16 students volunteering in total. The students volunteering from the Academic Bridge Program are part of the ABP’s Social Services and Volunteering club, which regularly organises events to support people in need, both within the community, and around the world.

Moza al-Boainain, Assistant Director of Student Services, and Supervisor of the club, said, “The Social Services & Volunteering Club aims to provide volunteering

opportunities for students to serve their community, contribute to the development of their personal skills and knowledge and equip them with new experiences as well as a sense of psychological satisfaction when they provide services to others who are in need.”

Moza added, “Volunteering is a great way to show university admissions that the students not only care about the community, but are also able to manage their time well enough to balance a volunteer job with other commitments.”

She also mentioned that the Social Services & Volunteering Club works in collaboration with local charity organisations such as Qatar Charity and Rota to participate in their projects. One of the successful projects with Qatar Charity was the construction of a primary school in Somalia and the drilling of a water well to serve the school and the neighbourhood where it is located. Other activities include visiting sick children at Hamad General Hospital, and organising charity events to raise funds for a number of causes.

ICAI Doha chapter holds seminar on modern technologiesDoha Chapter (the chapter) of Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) recently conducted a professional seminar on ‘The New Era of Blockchain and Cryptocurrency’.Around 150 senior finance professionals and stake-holders in various businesses and organisations across Qatar attended the seninar. The main sponsors for the event were Protiviti, a consulting firm, and Doha Bank.Sandeep Chowdhary, Secretary of the chapter, welcomed the guests and Dr R Seetharaman, the key note speaker. Dr R Seetharaman, CEO of Doha Bank, explained how the blockchain had transformed the banking sector with the cashless, digital and cryptic transactions replacing traditional back-off ice clearing-houses and other outdated mediums that existed between the asset sellers and buyers. These are important developments, but what is exciting is the potential to apply the new technologies and the new data to the creation of completely new business and models.

Rupalakshmi Setty, Chairperson of the chapter, in her address mentioned blockchain as one of the emerging technology platforms.Subash Shanmugham from Protiviti is a most sought-after speaker on latest technology trends. He also enlightened the participants about the new technologies. In an interactive presentation, he explained how blockchain application would positively impact the financial services in capital markets, insurance and cross-border transfers. He further explained that cryptocurrency was the digital currency developed using software codes and was secured by cryptography. Rukkaiya Pachisa, Vice Chairperson of the chapter, thanked the speakers and the members for the interactive and knowledge-sharing session.The chapter is the first professional body to be registered with Qatar Financial Centre and was awarded the best chapter for the second consecutive year under Category II.

Sunday, May 13, 201810 GULF TIMES

COMMUNITY QUIZ

“Once something is a passion, the motivation is there”

— Michael Schumacher

If you’re blown away by the roar of the engines and the smell of hot tyres, and if you know The Iceman, The Professor and The Rat, you

are brilliantly apt as an F1 fan. And you are at the right pit stop.

Welcome to the world of ‘Nutty’s Infotainment. YAYS!’

For the “lesser soul”, a Formula One season consists of a series of races, known as Grands Prix (French for “grand prizes” or “great prizes”), which are held worldwide on purpose-built circuits and public roads. The “formula” in the name refers to a set of rules to which all participants and cars must comply.

Formula 1 is undeniably one of the most technologically advanced forms of sports, with so much attention to detail (and money). Unlike most racing categories, Formula 1 isn’t just about competition between the drivers. It’s about rivalry between the cars, too.

Ripley’s: The average basic cost of an F1 car is $10 million. But don’t forget about the millions that are spent on research and development. It’s quite a pricey machine.

80,000 components come together to build these beautiful monsters. Now this means, the cars need to be assembled with 100.00% effi ciency. The car is so powerful, it can go from 0 to 100mph back to zero, within 3.9 seconds. F1 car engines last only for about 2 hours of racing mostly

before blowing up. That’s the extent to which the engines are pushed to perform. An F1 engine usually revs up to 18000rpm. Small planes can take off at slower speeds than F1 cars travel on the track.

An average F1 driver loses about 4kg of weight after just one race.

The fi rst world championship race had two titles. Offi cially, it was the Grand Prix d’Europe, but as the race was held on UK soil it incorporated the British Grand Prix. Unlike today, when the season-opening event is traditionally held in March, the race took place this day (May 13) in 1950.

Rather fittingly for a race attended by royalty (Queen Elizabeth II, with her father King George VI), the participant list had a distinctly aristocratic flavour: a Swiss baron, a Thai prince and a well-known Jazz musician.

Thirty three diff erent drivers have won the Formula 1 Championship with Michael Schumacher still holding the record for the most titles with 7.

Alain Prost versus Ayrton Senna remains arguably, the greatest rivalry to have graced F1, with both men spurred to new heights by the

discovery of — and battle against — a true equal.

Horses for courses, as the saying goes, and the same could be said for race tracks.

A combination of a city atmosphere, off -track entertainment and adrenalin-pumping racing… Singapore doesn’t fail to deliver. The race takes place in the evening under fl oodlights, and has a uniquely thrilling vibe like nowhere else!

Monaco is the place to get immersed in a weekend full of glitz and glamour. Set in a beautiful seaside location in the Cote d’Azur, the circuit hugs the edge of the French Riviera whilst being intimately integrated into the fabric of the city.

Considered the home track of Ferrari, Autodromo Nazionale Monza is known for its charisma and charm. The Italian Formula 1 Grand Prix is raced north of Milan. Perfect to combine your love of motor-racing with your passion for fashion and design. Andiamo!

Your time starts now.

On your marks, get set, screech!!!

In F1, a blue fl ag may be waved both during the race or practice session. What must a driver do when they see a blue fl ag?

Slow down and allow the faster car behind them to pass.

Which famous tune is based on a 19th-century work named Gran Vals by Spanish classical guitarist and composer Francisco Tárrega?

Nokia tune.

Who made the famous speech, “I have nothing to off er but blood, toil, tears and sweat”?

The speech, delivered this day in 1940, was Winston Churchill’s fi rst speech to the House of Commons after becoming Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.

During Google I/O last week,

the company announced that Gboard would soon support Morse code, a move inspired by developer Tania Finlayson who communicates through head movements that are translated into Morse code and then into speech. What is --.- .- - .- .-. in morse code?

Qatar

What is Triskaidekaphobia?Fear of number 13.

Nicknamed Dr. M, he recently became the world’s oldest elected leader at 92. Name him.

Mahathir Mohamad.

Which singer was one of the Time persons of the year for 2005?

Bono (Jointly with Bill Gates and Melinda Gates).

What connects Beibei, Jingjing, Huanhuan, Yingying and Nini?

Mascots of 2008 Beijing Olympics.

Which well-known personality did Mehmet Ali Agca shot at and severely wound this day (13th May) in 1981, after escaping from a prison?

Pope John Paul II. Even though he pardoned him, Agca’s exact motives or who put him up to it are still unknown.

Who is the cartoonist drawing a random doodle? No more clue, please.

(Answer next week. Last week answer to photoquiz: Roger Bannister)

Passion — and money — like no other!

What’s the Good Word?

1. Bibliopole: (a) books lover (b)

dealer in used books (c) collectors of

Bibles (d) library

2. Boilover: (a) cooking container (b)

favourite (c) surprise result (d) weaken

3. Griff onage: (a) careless

handwriting (b) intense sorrow (c)

celebration (d) second hand

4. Shamazed: (a) humiliated (b)

shocked and amazed (c) granting

approval (d) highly clothed

5. Succour: (a) aid (b) pilferage (c)

obstruct (d) charm

6. Concinnity: (a) bribery (b) harmony

(c) annoyance (d) pleasure of eating

7. Degust: (a) indignation (b) clog (c)

please (d) appreciative tasting

8. Erubescent: (a) dark (b) blushing

(c) possessed (d) fresh

9. Nesh: (a) delicate (b) intricate (c)

flimsy (d) interlaced structure

10. Puddysticks: (a) strenuous (b)

crafty (c) very easy (d) marshy

Answers: 1 (b); 2 (d); 3 (a); 4 (b); 5 (a); 6

(c); 7 (d); 8 (b); 9 (a); 10 (a).

IN THE FAST LANE: The average basic cost of an F1 car is $10 million.

BEWARE! Triskaidekaphobia is the fear of number 13.

11Sunday, May 13, 2018 GULF TIMES

COMMUNITYINFOGRAPHIC

Sunday, May 13, 201812 GULF TIMES

COMMUNITY CARTOONS/PUZZLES

Adam

Pooch Cafe

Garfield

Bound And Gagged

Codeword

Wordsearch

Every letter of the alphabet is used at least once. Squares with the same number in have the same letter in. Work out which number represents which letter.

Puzz

les

cour

tesy

: Puz

zlec

hoic

e.co

m

Sudoku

Sudoku is a puzzle based

on a 9x9 grid. The grid is

also divided into nine (3x3)

boxes. You are given a

selection of values and to

complete the puzzle, you

must fill the grid so that

every column, every anone

is repeated.

Bright

BEAM BLAZE BRIGHT DAZZLE EFFULGENT GLEAM GLISTEN

GLITTER GLOSS GOLDEN LAMBENT LUCENT RADIANT ROSY

SHEEN SHINING SHINY SPARKLE SUNNY VIVID

13Sunday, May 13, 2018 GULF TIMES

COMMUNITYPUZZLES

Colouring

Answers

Wordsearch Codeword

ACROSS3. A tidy number in good shape

(4,6)

8. The state of a hat (6)

9. Many a youngster’s

appearance when dressed (4)

10. It’s a big bone of contention

when the officer is a woman

(5,5)

11. One’s out of time (3)

13. Bob’s desire to be a comic (4)

14. Chris Lloyd originally getting

on the team (7)

15. Pole strikes back (4)

17. Church to fold when there’s

change (5)

20. Takes in the undulating

countryside (5)

22. Girl in glasses perhaps a

bluestocking (4)

24. Girl holding fashionable stone

(7)

25. Tim’s rewritten a Tommy

Handley show (4)

27. The bird’s a dish (3)

28. Keep a firm grip (10)

29. River flowing through a pretty

neighbourhood (4)

30. Old cue’s being bent may be

one’s reason for not doing

well (6)

31. Main means of getting people

from A to B (5,5)

Super Cryptic Clues

Yesterday’s Solutions

Across: 1 Scream; 5 Rancid; 8 Aware; 9 Record; 10 Action; 11 Reeds; 14 Straight; 16 Normal; 18 Light literature; 20 Starts; 22 Eggplant; 25 Lairs; 27 Panama; 28 Tirade; 29 Solve; 30 Snatch; 31 Rushes.

Down: 1 Scraps; 2 Rock; 3 Madrigal; 4 Takes to the hills; 5 Reason; 6 Chip; 7 Daniel; 12 Gathers; 13 Prattle; 15 Twist; 17 Arran; 19 Register; 20 Shapes; 21 Splash; 23 Towers; 24 Anna; 26 Wash.

DOWN1. Butler following a Pole around

- it’s a metaphor (8)

2. Conditionally release a

labourer outside (6)

3. States a fellow is about over

(7)

4. In Madagascar is expected to

crop up (5)

5. Confront a leading forensic

expert (4)

6. It’s a drag being across below

(8)

7. Smoothing things over with

the Sunday Times (8)

12. Does, perhaps, turn on Oliver

(4)

14. Lover boy hurting back (4)

16. Light, soft drink (4)

17. The rightful Duke of Milan’s

correct about the way round

(8)

18. Sweet sound made by the

friend he and mum left (8)

19. It’s very wrong to be upset (4)

21. Untitled work about

Englishman getting not so

much backing (8)

23. The spider and the fly (7)

25. One way wine may be

pawned (2,4)

26. Boy standing up in school (5)

28. A swimmer’s close (4)

Sunday, May 13, 201814 GULF TIMES

COMMUNITY LIFESTYLE/HOROSCOPE

ARIESMarch 21 — April 19

CANCERJune 21 — July 22

LIBRASeptember 23 — October 22

CAPRICORNDecember 22 — January 19

TAURUSApril 20 — May 20

LEOJuly 23 — August 22

SCORPIOOctober 23 — November 21

AQUARIUSJanuary 20 — February 18

GEMINIMay 21 — June 20

VIRGOAugust 23 — September 22

SAGITTARIUSNovember 22 — December 21

PISCESFebruary 19 — March 20

News of a possible raise could come your way today, Aries, possibly

through some enterprise that you’ve been working on. You’re feeling

especially energetic, and therefore you could well be tempted to take on

more than you usually would. This is fine, but remember to pace yourself.

If you’re going to continue on your current path, you’ll need to save some

energy for tomorrow and beyond!

Today you might want to spend time visiting friends in your

neighbourhood, Cancer. Small purchases might be necessary, perhaps

new clothes, perhaps objects that improve or add beauty to your home.

You might have to squeeze a few errands in between visits. At some point

during the day, you can expect a very welcome phone call from a friend

you haven’t heard from in a long time. Enjoy!

Your creative talents should be operating at an all-time high today, Libra.

You might be off ered an opportunity to earn some money putting them to

use. Your excitement and enthusiasm are likely to ensure that you’ll do the

best you possibly can and earn a lot of approval from those around you.

Your intuition is also operating at a high level, boosting your imagination

and relations with others. Enjoy your day!

Contact with friends who live or work far away could bring a string of new

opportunities your way. You might also be thinking of taking a trip, perhaps

to another country or by boat. An opportunity to attend a seminar of

some kind could present itself, possibly through friends. A lot is happening,

Capricorn, but try to stay focused. What happens today could be too

important to let your mind become muddled.

A group might invite you to participate in a creative project of some kind

today, Taurus. Whatever you do is likely to be stimulating and exciting.

You’ll want to channel a lot of energy and enthusiasm into it. You could

find yourself thinking in terms of a partnership, making plans to explore

the possibility further. This is a great day for socialising. If you receive an

invitation to go out, go!

A chance to earn a small amount of money, perhaps by doing a little extra

work at home, could come your way today, Leo. You could hear about it

through a friend or colleague. A visitor might come to your home, perhaps

to help with something that needs to be done. This promises to be a very

exciting day, with a lot of stimulation that could keep you occupied into

the night.

Getting out and working with groups could seem especially appealing

today, particularly groups involving athletics or other physical activities.

This is an excellent day to go out for team sports or attend a yoga,

aerobics, or tai chi class. You could also want to make a short trip out of

town with some friends. A bit of adventure is definitely in the wind for you,

Scorpio. Enjoy it!

New investment possibilities could present themselves to you today,

Aquarius. This could involve an investment of time, money, or other

resources. You might also consider an exciting new start of some sort.

Don’t let yourself get so excited that you move ahead before you consider

all the pros and cons. You might want to consult a friend or your partner.

This would make an excellent excuse to schedule a romantic evening!

You might be planning to host a social event in your home tonight

or perhaps in a few days. It could have you doing a lot of cleaning,

rearranging, and beautifying around the house. A friend might drop by

to lend a hand. You might also find yourself planning an incredible menu.

Don’t work too hard, Gemini, or you might not have any energy left for

your family or guests!

Expect a lot of intellectual stimulation to come your way today, Virgo.

Important news could come on the phone, necessitating action on your

part in order to bring about a desired end. You might need to spend time

in the car, contacting others in the neighbourhood. The excitement of the

moment could have you feeling especially optimistic, but take care to pace

yourself. Exhaustion could prove counterproductive now.

An exciting new project or opportunity could be presented to you today,

Sagittarius. It could involve a new love or at least a new friend. Something

you’ve been working on for a long time could finally come to fruition. It

will stir your enthusiasm for moving on to the next project! What are you

waiting for?

An opportunity to travel with a partner or colleague could come your

way, perhaps for business. Any travel planned or begun today is likely to

go well and bring you whatever results you hope for. Whatever it is you’re

planning, Pisces, it should excite your enthusiasm and optimism for your

future success. Business and personal relations with others should be

warm, cordial, and stimulating. Make the most of it!

Play with the right dress and jewellery to lock in summerM

ake your summer stylish and comfortable by teaming up your right dress with apt jewellery and perfect accessory.

Shreyasi Pathak, Stylist, Vajor and Sonal Sahrawat, Creative Director, Sonal’s Bijoux & Adawna list some tips to look this summer.

Jumpsuit: Jumpsuits are the most eff ortless and sought-after choice when you want to dress up eff ortlessly in this scorching heat. Sleeveless with fl oral prints along with a fl ared silhouette is what will keep you going throughout the day. Wear it with a pair of fl ats, sunglasses and statement earrings to walk the streets in style.

Dress: A casual summer dress is a must during bright sunny days. Whether you opt for solid colours or for soothing prints, nothing can come to your rescue in this heat other than a nice breezy dress. Keep the look chic and boho and style it well with a pair of sandals, tassel

earrings and candy pop sunglasses.

Top and bottom: For someone who loves to keep their looks eff ortless, minimalist yet full of class, for someone who loves to explore places when on a vacation, a fun top with a pair of bottoms is your go-to choice! Complete your look with a slip-on and a sling and you’re ready with your on-the-go look.

Bright coloured stones: Go colour-crazy with your wardrobe and try mixing in some vibrant coloured stone jewellery. Dare to rock a more-is-more look and brighten up your summer outfi ts with unique coloured jewellery pieces.

Stylish pearls: Pearls are something that never goes out of style and this year is no exception. Wear it as a stud or as a dangling earring, this style will never fade away. Opt for long dangling style pearl earrings for any parties, weddings or social events and make a style statement to rock your gorgeous look this year.— IANS

Sunday, May 13, 2018 15GULF TIMES

COMMUNITYHOLLYWOOD

By Clint O’Connor

In the new movie Tully, Charlize Theron exposes us to the dark side of motherhood. She’s in the throes of postpartum depression as she struggles to juggle the demands of a

newborn daughter, her two other children and her ineffectual husband.

The comedy-drama, directed by Jason Reitman and written by Diablo Cody, is hardly the first film about motherhood or raising a family. But it is one of the most starkly realistic representations of the sleepless agony of those first few weeks.

Theron gained 50 pounds for the role. She lets it all hang out.

On June 15, the latest offering from Pixar animation, Incredibles 2, will focus on a different brand of mom-stress: How a modern, working mother (Helen Parr, aka Elastigirl, voiced by Holly Hunter) juggles her familial responsibilities with the pesky demands of saving the world.

Theron and Hunter will join the ranks of women who have shown us the good (and not so good) sides of raising children, from Serial Mom and Teen Mom, to Scary Mother, All About My Mother and Mother’s Day. There are the movies that inspired TV shows, I Remember Mama, and ones that launched sequels, Big Momma’s House. There are those demanding exclamation points — mother! and Mamma Mia! — and films with plot-revealing titles: Throw Momma from the Train and Don’t Tell Mom the Babysitter’s Dead.

Hollywood often gets it wrong. But sometimes its made-up moms really strike a chord.

In honour of Mother’s Day, here’s a salute to 10 of the screen’s most memorable moms.

Dearly DepartedBambi’s Mother in Bambi (1942).

Really? This was the wholesome, G-rated Disney movie that our parents took us to so we could learn about forests and furry animals? And, oh, by the way, just as we’re basking in the warmth and wisdom of our little hero’s mom, she gets gunned down by hunters? Dead. Gone. A tragic loss of a nurturing spirit. (Not on the playlist at NRA conventions.)

Solid CitizensWhen all is crumbling around you,

thankfully there are some rock-solid women to turn to.

Cicely Tyson as Rebecca in Sounder (1972). Rebecca fights off racism and hunger with equal strength and keeps her family afloat when her husband is shipped off to prison during the depths of the Great Depression.

Jane Darwell as Ma Joad in The Grapes of Wrath (1940). Speaking of the Depression, the Joad family personified the horrors of the Dust Bowl and the long trek from

Oklahoma to California, facing a scarcity of jobs, food and hope. Ma Joad kept the family moving forward despite the odds.

Child AdvocatesShirley MacLaine as Aurora Greenway

in Terms of Endearment (1983). If your daughter was in the hospital fighting cancer, you would definitely want the feisty Aurora advocating for her with the nurses: “My daughter is in pain! Give my daughter the shot!” She couldn’t save Debra Winger, but she helped ease her anguish.

Sally Field as M’Lynn Eatenton in Steel Magnolias (1989). M’Lynn is mad as hell for the loss of her beautiful young daughter, Shelby (Julia Roberts). It’s not the how, but the why. “Oh, God! I am so mad I don’t know what to do! I wanna know why! I wanna know why Shelby’s life is over!” she wails in a wrenching speech. “Oh, God, I wanna know why? Why?”

Child AbuseFaye Dunaway as Joan Crawford in

Mommie Dearest (1981). The classic, sweaty, scenery-chewing moment is

when the sadistic, alcoholic Crawford rants incessantly at her adopted daughter Christina about using “wire hangers,” then proceeds to beat her with one. Pretty awful film. Ironically, 35 years earlier, Crawford had won an Oscar for playing a mother who would risk everything just to help her daughter, in Mildred Pierce.

Large And In ChargeSandra Bullock as Leigh Anne Tuohy in

The Blind Side (2009). Bullock owns the screen as the no-nonsense, don’t-mess-with-me mom who takes young adrift athlete Michael Oher under her wing and into her home. She’s a pistol when taking on the outside world, but a supreme nurturer on the homefront.

Pass The KleenexSusan Sarandon as Jackie Harrison in

Stepmom (1998). Jackie is dying. This means that soon, the new woman in her two children’s lives will be her ex-husband’s young fashion photographer girlfriend Isabel (Julia Roberts), whom she loathes and distrusts. Of course, as her illness worsens (sniff) she has to bid farewell to her kids (sniff, sniff) and somehow reconcile with Isabel.

Make That Two BoxesAnn-Margret as Lucile Fray in Who Will

Love My Children? (1983). Stepmom is sad. But for massive tissue-tearing, puffy-eyed super-weeping, nothing comes close to this TV movie directed by John Erman. Ann-Margret plays an Iowa mother with a terminal illness, who, before she dies, is determined to find good homes for all of her children. Yep. It’s 95 minutes of a dying woman giving away what she loves most in the world.

Did I mention that she has 10 children?!Did I mention that it’s based on a true

story?!

Political SchemerTears are touching, cheers are inspiring

and laughs are joyous. But there is another realm we have yet to honour: utter ruthlessness.

For my money, the all-time most memorable matriarch is Angela Lansbury as Eleanor Shaw Iselin in The Manchurian Candidate (1962). No-one is as controlling, manipulative and Machiavellian as Lansbury as the bloodthirsty political climber.

John Frankenheimer’s thriller about brainwashing and an insidious assassination plot is one of the greatest films of the 1960s. And it features strong performances by Frank Sinatra as a Korean War vet, and Laurence Harvey as Iselin’s unsuspecting son, Raymond.

When President John F. Kennedy heard that one of his favourite novels was being turned into a film, he had one question for his friend Sinatra, “Who are they getting to play the mother?”— Akron Beacon Journal (Akron, Ohio)/TNS

SPOTLIGHT: Charlize Theron on the set of Tully in Vancouver.

MOTHER’S DAY SPECIAL

Top 10 movie moms — from Sandra Bullock to Sally Field

Sunday, May 13, 201816 GULF TIMES

COMMUNITY

Japanese Ambassador donates books to TBZ school

DONATION: The donated books on display.VISITOR: The Ambassador of Japan, left, during his visit to the school

Seiichi Otsuka, Ambassador of Japan to Qatar, recently visited Tariq Bin Ziyad (TBZ) Independent Secondary School for Boys for book donation. The books were handed over to Hamad al-Mannai, Principal of the school. TBZ school is currently the only independent school in Qatar that teaches the Japanese language in the secondary school’s curriculum.

Doha College wins Alice Programming CompetitionT

hree out of the four teams put forward by Doha College for the recent ‘Alice Middle East Programming

Competition’, earned a place on the winners’ podium. To make the achievement even more remarkable, it was the fi rst time Doha College entered the competition, which now on its third edition. The competition was hosted by Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar (CMU-Q), and welcomed just under 40 teams from the government and international schools across the country, that use the Alice Middle East software to learn computing as part of their Information Communication Technology (ICT) curriculum.

‘Alice’ is a software that guides students through a 3D interactive world, teaching them the fundamental skills of programming and computational thinking, and was created at the main Carnegie Mellon campus. The challenge set to the participating students was to create an animation or game in the Alice programming environment, centred around a number of diff erent themes, namely Qatar 2022, space exploration, global warming, social issues, or an interactive video game.

Doha College entered four teams comprising students from Years VIII to X. Amash Mir, Head of ICT and Computer Science at

the college, stated, “Our winning team scored full marks in every assessed category. Such was the standard of their work that the judges – decorated professors and academic research staff from neighbouring universities as well as Carnegie Mellon themselves – felt they deserved a perfect

score. All of the judges praised the eff orts of Doha College students and were in agreement that any one of our teams could have won, and the diff erences between them were marginal. This achievement echoes the computer sciences department’s push towards a holistic computer

science curriculum, and in the future we hope to provide further opportunities to continually challenge and encourage the academic growth of our students.”

The winning programme was based on trees, which the students linked fi ttingly with the school’s focus on environmental issues,

Doha College being the fi rst in Qatar to have been awarded the Green Flag by the Foundation for Environmental Education, back in 2016.

To fi nd out more about the ICT and Computer Science curriculum off ered by Doha College, visit www.dohacollege.com.

VICTORIOUS: The victorious teams of Doha College in a group photo.