On the 9th of September 2025, Qatar Academy Al Wakrah, in collaboration with the Embassy of the United Republic of Tanzania to the State of Qatar, officially launched the Kilimanjaro Expedition 2026 Challenge, an initiative that blends academic values with the spirit of adventure and resilience.
The event was graced by Hon. Ms. Abeer Al Khalifa, President of Pre-University Education at Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development, who underscored the importance of nurturing determination and global citizenship among students.
Ms. Bedriyah Itani, Director of Qatar Academy Al Wakrah, delivered a keynote address drawing parallels between academic challenges and the expedition itself, stressing that just as climbing Mount Kilimanjaro demands perseverance, clear goals, and focus, so too does the pursuit of higher academic achievement.
In his keynote speech, H.E. Habibu Awesi Mohamed, Ambassador of the United Republic of Tanzania to the State of Qatar, commended the 2025 champion students who successfully reached Uhuru Peak alongside their peers. He recalled the historic moment when Mwalimu Julius Kambarage Nyerere, Father of the Tanzanian Nation, lit the Freedom Torch atop Mount Kilimanjaro to shine beyond Tanzania’s borders as a beacon of hope, love, respect, endurance, resilience, and as a lasting symbol of the country’s natural heritage. The Ambassador reaffirmed Tanzania’s commitment to supporting the expedition, highlighting its role as a bridge of cultural, educational, and diplomatic cooperation between Tanzania and Qatar.
H.E. Awesi also had the honour of presenting certificates and mementos to six students from Qatar Academy Al Wakrah, five boys and one girl who participated in the 2025 challenge and successfully reached Uhuru Peak, the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. The winners are Abdulrahman Muftah; Abdulla Muftah; Deema Al Jaber; Shahad Al Fadala; Yousef Al Ghamdi and Mohammed Al Sheraim.
The ceremony was attended by distinguished directors from Qatar Foundation schools, staff, teachers, students, and invited guests, all of whom expressed strong passion and support for the mission.
The Kilimanjaro Expedition 2026 Challenge aims to inspire young people to embrace resilience, discipline, and teamwork - values that will guide them not only up the slopes of Africa’s highest mountain but also in their academic and personal journeys.