Awsaj Academy honours its first class of graduates

Ten graduates received their diplomas marking the first graduation ceremony under the new name Awsaj Academy (formally the Learning Center). 

The ceremony took place in Awsaj Academy’s new building in Qatar Foundation on June 6th and was attended by parents; staff and several distinguish guests including: Fahad Al-Subaiey Chair of the Board of Governors of Awsaj Academy, Mr. AbdulRahman Al-Suwaidi, CEO of ORYX GTL, Dr. Saif Ali Al-Hajari, other Awsaj Academy Board Members and distinguished guests.

The pre-ceremony event included several musicians from Qatar Music Academy. The audience was mesmerized by the musicians’ performance. The ceremony officially began with the Qatar National Anthem followed by a reciting of the Holy Qur’an by graduating seniors Tamim Mohamed Al-Thani and Mohamed Khalifa Al-Thani.

In his welcoming address, Dr. Ralph Pruitt, Director of Awsaj Academy, recognized the graduates by saying, “Today you are leaving with a diploma that is recognized by colleges around the world. You have been successful due to your perseverance and desire to achieve in order to meet an important goal.”  He then addressed the graduates by reminding them to thank the people that helped them along the way saying “Thank your family, and especially your parents for believing in you and for raising you to value education, overcome difficulties, and turn your weaknesses into strengths.”   In his speech Dr. Pruitt continued to talk about the changes that the Academy has gone through “We are a re-branded organization with an updated and innovative mission and vision.” 

Dr. Pruitt thanked Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, the Chairperson of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development, QF leadership, and each member of Awsaj Academy’s Board of Governors by saying “Without their support and leadership we could not have expanded both in size and scope or been successful in rebranding our center.”

Mr. AbdulRahman Al–Suwaidi, CEO of ORYX GTL was the keynote speaker for the evening.  Inspiring and encouraging the audience, Mr. Al-Suwaidi talked about the importance of pursuing higher education. “You can achieve your goals and work your way up the career ladder if you approach studies and life with hard work, drive, determination and enthusiasm. By pursuing higher education the sky really is the limit for those who apply themselves diligently.”

He continued by reminding the audience of how fortunate they are to be a part of Qatar Foundation. Mr. Al-Suwaidi said “Awsaj Academy is a unique institution which uses advanced teaching methods to achieve outstanding results. As part of the Qatar Foundation stable, it is no surprise that the Academy should set unparalleled benchmarks of excellence which are the envy of other specialist educational establishments in the region. Everyone associated with the Academy should be grateful to have the unwavering support of such a world-class organization.”

During some emotional speeches, the high school teachers spoke highly of all the graduates and expressed their feelings for the departure of their students.  “Teachers are not supposed to have “favorites,”, but I’m going to break that rule and admit that Fatima Mohammed is one of my all-time favorite student” said Mrs. Deleew the high school teaching coach, speaking about the student Fatima Mohammed. 

When describing the student Khalifa Al-Kuwari, Mr. Nait the high school Math teacher said “We will definitely miss his kindness and positive attitude.” Addressing the student Hassan Makki, Mr. Spaulding the high school Math teacher said, “He frequently would participate in good-hearted joking with myself and classmates.  He always had a good sense of how to have fun with his class but not overstep boundaries.”

Emphasizing the importance of this day was graduate, Abdulrahman Al-Thani, he expressed his sincere appreciation for all the support that he has seen throughout the years.  “thank you for showing me the way all these years. Two years ago I struggled with writing. The teachers helped me develop my skills. They forced me to write over and over again until my hands were tired. They are my second parents because they helped me succeed. Every time I write I will remember them.”

Dr. Don Francis, Awsaj Academy high school Principal encouraged the graduates to be responsible citizens by saying “Make tomorrow unforgettable!  Plan ahead, stick with your plan regardless of the challenges, and live your dreams.” He added “I have no doubt that you are future world leaders, and commend you ahead of times for the accomplishments the future will hold for you.”

Dr. Don Francis ended the ceremony by declaring that the candidates had successfully completed the Awsaj Academy course of study. Diplomas and Gifts were awarded by Mr. Fahad Turki Al-Subaiey, Chair of the Board of Governors of Awsaj Academy, Dr. Ralph Pruitt, Director of Awsaj Academy, and Dr. Don Francis, High School Principal to Artem Lobodanov, Tamem Mohamed Al-Thani, Hassan Mahmoud Makki, Khalifa Jabor Al-Kuwari, Abdulrahman Abdulla Al-Thani, Abdulla Mohamed Falamarzi, Fatima Abdulhussain Mohammed, Fahaid Ghanim Al-Solaiti, Mohamed Khalifa Al-Thani, and Maryam Abdulla Al-Mutawaa.  This year’s graduates plan to continue their studies at colleges and universities in Qatar, and abroad. 

Awsaj Academy is a member of Qatar Foundation that serves students with learning challenges in grades 1-12. Students are served in small classrooms with no more than ten students. Teachers use evidence based instructional practices to meet the individual needs of students with additional support provided as needed.

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