Graduation ceremony in Qatar

This year the Grade 12 Graduation from Qatar Academy took place at Al Shaqab Equestrian Centre. A large platform was constructed in the shape of the QA logo. In such a large arena it was hard to get a "cozy" feeling. Tim sat on the platform with the other Senior School administrators. He was so far away we had a hard time recognizing him. There were 94 graduates from the IB program. The graduates are attending Universities all over the world.

The event was made even more special by the appearance of the Emir! He sat in the front row beaming at the graduates. He turned around to watch the graduates' processional with a big smile on his face.

Tim and other administrators giving awards

Graduation ceremonies in Qatar are very similar to those happening this week in Canada. There are awards given for highest subject marks (although these are trophies not money), the valedictorian speaks, the guest speaker is a former student of QA, and there is a reception afterward for families and friends. However the service tends to be much shorter and much more formal.