In preparation for the new academic year 2016/2017, the Public Works Authority ‘Ashghal’ has made delivery of 11 out of 15 schools to the Ministry of Education and Higher Education. The four remaining schools are being handed over while Ashghal is putting the finishing touches to 6 kindergartens, due to be delivered over after mid-September, 2016.

The 21 fresh buildings, with a cost of approximately QR one billion, have seen different interior designs, including walls and floors, with more attractive paints and patterns that would help improve the educational environment. Ashghal had constructed around 60 schools and 35 kindergartens from 2013 to 2016. Being awarded the 3-star Global Sustainability Assessment System (GSAS) certification in design and construction, Ashghal pursued to comply with the green building specifications related in a way that would help reduce energy, achieve lower water consumption, improve indoor environment, and reflect local architecture and heritage.  

GSAS supports the achievement of Qatar National Vision 2030 to promote sustainability standards in the urban environment in the country. Noteworthy, the construction of these educational facilities follows the standard design model for schools, comprising 25 classrooms to accommodate about 650 students, as well as various facilities including science, language and IT laboratories, as well as sports and art halls, multipurpose halls, gyms, libraries and classrooms in addition to outdoor spaces with shaded parking spaces, playgrounds and service buildings.

 Likewise, the nurseries are composed of 12 classrooms to accommodate 240 children, shaded playing and activity areas, music, language and computer rooms, in addition to a library, classrooms and external spaces, comprising shaded parking spaces, green areas and service buildings. The design of schools and kindergartens is in line with the Qatari code for people with special needs, providing ramps at entrances and exits with special specifications for bathrooms and other areas. It also complies with safety requirements adopted by Global Fire and Security Systems and Qatari Civil Defense.

New schools are listed below:

As for the 6 new nurseries, they are expectedly located at areas of Al Thakhira, Al Messila, Wadi Al Banat, Hazm Al Markhiya, Nuaija, and Umm Ghuwailina.