Doha: The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH), in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MOEHE), organized a workshop aimed at promoting research and innovation in food safety. Approximately 70 coordinators and supervisors from scientific research teams in secondary schools across Qatar participated in the event.
According to Qatar News Agency, the workshop's goal was to enhance awareness of food safety and its significance to health and the community within schools. It also aimed to introduce participants to the fundamentals of scientific research in food safety and empower teachers and supervisors to develop innovative research ideas and proposals.
Key topics covered in the workshop included the concept of food safety and its associated risks, foodborne diseases, preventive measures, and risk analysis. Sample research topics in food safety were also presented. Participants received practical training on the fundamentals of scientific research and methods for implementing them in food-related studies.
The workshop featured interactive sessions where participants presented and discussed ideas for student research projects, focusing on excellence and innovation. These ideas were evaluated by a specialized judging committee comprising representatives from MoPH and MOEHE. The committee will provide technical guidance throughout the research stages, monitor outcomes, and disseminate successful practices to interested schools.
Dr. Shaikha Al Zeyara, Food Safety Consultant at the MoPH, emphasized the ministry's commitment to nurturing students' capabilities, stating that strengthening scientific research skills at an early stage positively impacts community quality of life and collective awareness. She highlighted the workshop as a practical platform linking academic knowledge with field application in the vital area of food safety.
Ghanem Saad Al Humaidi, Acting Head of the Research, Talent and Innovation Section at the Curriculum Department and Learning Resources at MOEHE, underscored the importance of institutional partnerships with national entities concerned with scientific research. He noted that such partnerships support applied education and strengthen the culture of research and innovation in schools.