Doha, Qatar: The Ministry of Education and Higher Education has introduced a nationwide campaign titled “One Hour for Free Reading” across all public schools. This initiative engages students, teachers, and administrative staff in a collective effort to establish reading as a consistent daily practice within the educational environment.

The program is designed to enhance students' skills in analysis, expression, and creative thinking. By reinforcing the importance of books as a primary source of knowledge, the ministry aims to balance the impact of rapid digital transformation with traditional literacy. The launch coincides with celebrations for World Book and Copyright Day, featuring a series of events specifically curated to foster a lasting reading culture.

During a field visit to Qatar Primary School for Girls, Maha Zayed Al-Qaqaa Al-Ruwaili, Assistant Undersecretary for Educational Affairs, observed classroom reading sessions and praised the diverse interests shown by students. She also commended school administrations for creating stimulating environments that encourage independent learning. Private schools have also joined the effort by organizing complementary reading activities.

In addition to school-based events, the ministry’s Curriculum and Learning Resources Department hosted a panel discussion on the role of knowledge in the age of artificial intelligence. The session explored how AI affects reading habits and the importance of fostering critical awareness to manage information overload. A separate seminar at the ministry’s headquarters focused on professional writing and copyright, bringing together writers and intellectual property specialists to discuss the future of the field.

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