Doha – The latest edition of the Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar (WCM-Q) High School Research Competition (HSRC) saw 214 students from 31 high schools across Qatar, Kuwait, Indonesia, and the UAE present their research projects to a panel of judges.
Organized by WCM-Q’s Office of Student Outreach and Educational Development, the competition encourages high school students to explore medical and scientific research. It also enhances their analytical and presentation skills.
This year’s projects focused on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 2030. They covered themes such as health and wellbeing, water and sanitation, sustainable cities, and responsible consumption and production. A total of 51 teams participated. Each was guided by a science or math teacher and comprised students from grades 10 to 12.
The competition is a key feature of WCM-Q’s Doctors of the Future Conference, scheduled for April 11-12, 2025. Top-performing teams will present their research at the conference. One of the three finalists will receive the prestigious Doctors of the Future Conference Award.
Dr. Rachid Bendriss, Associate Dean for Foundation, Student Outreach, and Educational Development, emphasized the competition’s impact. He stated, “By engaging in scientific research, students refine their critical thinking and problem-solving abilities while gaining exposure to science-based education.”
Noha Saleh, Director of Pre-Medical Administration, commended the students’ enthusiasm. She said, “This year’s participants demonstrated a strong passion for science, reflected in their outstanding research projects. We hope many will pursue careers in science, and we will continue to support them.”
Participating schools included institutions from Qatar and beyond. These schools included Al Arqam Academy for Girls, American School of Doha, Aspire Academy, and the American International School of Kuwait, among others.
