Doha, November 09 (QNA) - The second Student Arabic Calligraphy Competition kicked off Sunday.

The event is organized in collaboration between the Student Affairs and Programs Department, the Department of Schools and Kindergartens at the Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MoEHE), and the Qatar International Arabic Calligraphy Competition (Al Raqim), operating under the Ministry of Endowments (Awqaf) and Islamic Affairs in partnership with the Museum of Islamic Art.

The contest aims to reinforce community awareness of the value of Arabic calligraphy, instill cultural and artistic principles, and motivate students to master this terrific art form.

It also underscores the importance of values in human life by connecting them to the Holy Qur'an through a visually expressive medium that embodies the identity of the nation.

This year's contest is held across preparatory and secondary schools for boys and girls and, for the first time, includes four schools for students with disabilities from both public and private sectors.

The total number of participants reached 479 students, with 258 from public schools and 221 from private schools, all under the supervision of the Al Raqim Competition Committee, specifically competing in the Ruqa'ah Arabic script.

The program highlights the enduring history of Arabic calligraphy and its diverse tools, familiarizing participants with the stages of artistic expression, with particular focus on Arabic calligraphy as one of the foremost arts in Arabic and Islamic heritage.

Training textbooks and calligraphy pens for the Ruqa'ah script have been provided to all participating students to advance their practical skills and artistic experience ahead of the final evaluation. (QNA)