Doha, May 12 (QNA) - Qatar's Ministry of Education and Higher Education has launched the 18th National Scientific Research and Innovation Exhibition 2026, in partnership with the Qatar Research, Development and Innovation (QRDI) Council, under the theme "Promising Researchers for Qatar".

The event runs until May 14 at the Qatar National Convention Center, bringing together thousands of students from across the country to showcase scientific research and innovation projects.

The opening ceremony was attended by several senior officials, including HE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defense Affairs, Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman bin Hassan Al-Thani; HE Minister of Education and Higher Education, Lolwah bint Rashid Al Khater; HE Minister of State and President of Qatar National Library, Dr. Hamad bin Abdulaziz Al Kawari; and HE Chairman of Qatari Businessmen Association, Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim Al-Thani, along with other officials and education leaders.

According to organizers, this year's edition features 2,971 students from 249 public and private schools, presenting 1,467 research and innovation projects across a range of scientific fields.

During a tour of the exhibition, officials were briefed on student projects and innovations.

HE Undersecretary of the Ministry of Education and Higher Education Dr Ibrahim Al Nuaimi said research and innovation are central pillars in building Qatar's knowledge-based economy, in line with Qatar National Vision 2030.

He said the sustained success of the fair over 18 years reflects growing efforts to embed research culture in schools, adding that education has shifted from traditional rote learning towards a more integrated system of knowledge production. He also called for greater efforts to transform student research into practical applications that support national development priorities.

Meanwhile, Secretary-General of QRDI Council Omar Al Ansari said the council has been working since 2006 to develop national talent, noting that 891 scientific papers were submitted this year, with 165 projects selected for the final exhibition.

He also highlighted international achievements by Qatari students, who have won 48 medals and nine awards at global competitions including the International Science and Engineering Fair and ITEX International Engineering Fair.

He said these achievements go beyond awards, contributing to shaping students' personalities and ambitions.

Sarah Al Sharim, a senior ministry official, said student participation has increased by 25% compared with last year, while private school participation rose by more than 128%.

She also noted a rise in teacher-led action research, with 616 studies submitted, alongside increased participation from Qatari educators and early-grade students, with 357 pupils from grades three and four taking part.

The fair also includes specialized training programs aimed at developing research skills and promoting the use of modern technologies and artificial intelligence. It further supports the formation of student research teams in areas such as food safety and astronomy, in collaboration with national institutions, universities and research centers. (QNA)