Doha: The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH), in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, has implemented the Mental Health Promotion Programme across government schools from January to May 2026.
According to Qatar News Agency, the programme encompassed various activities and initiatives across 54 schools for boys and girls in primary, preparatory, and secondary educational stages, as well as activities for parents. The initiative aims to promote a supportive educational environment for mental health, thereby contributing to improved quality of life and community health.
Sheikh Dr. Mohammed bin Hamad Al Thani, Director of the Non-Communicable Diseases Prevention Programmes Department at MoPH, highlighted that the programme focuses on providing a safe educational environment through student training, teacher capacity-building, and the provision of qualified counsellors. It includes implementing effective programmes to reduce barriers to seeking support, combat bullying, address inappropriate behaviours, strengthen positive relationships, boost self-confidence, and encourage positive thinking among students. Additionally, the programme promotes parental involvement in the educational process, which contributes to students' academic and personal success.
The programme is set to continue from September, aiming to cover all government schools across different educational stages. It is tailored to meet the needs of each educational stage. For primary school students, the Managing Emotions Programme helps develop social intelligence and communication skills. It involved 12 lectures and workshops in 40 schools, reaching approximately 1,800 students.
For preparatory school students, the I Can Change Programme raises awareness of adolescent mental health and addresses behavioral patterns. This programme also comprised 12 lectures and workshops across six schools, benefiting around 1,800 students.
The Positive Thinking Programme for secondary school students aims at developing critical thinking, mental resilience, and decision-making skills. It included 16 lectures and workshops in eight schools, engaging approximately 1,800 students.
Teachers received training in early identification of mental health concerns and guidance through specialised workshops. These sessions covered managing bullying, promoting social intelligence, and strengthening partnerships with parents, thus improving academic performance and mental wellbeing.
Furthermore, workshops for parents were held within schools to provide advice on promoting children's mental health and reducing stress. Social media platforms were also used to disseminate awareness messages, aiding parents in supporting their children in coping with academic and behavioral pressures.