Minister of Social Development and Family Highlights the Value of Elders. Doha, Qatar – In a touching display of gratitude and respect for the senior population, Minister of Social Development and Family, HE Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad, emphasized the pivotal role that Qatar’s elders have played in shaping the country’s modern renaissance.
Speaking at a forum organized by the Center for Empowerment and Care of the Elderly (Ehsan), held in conjunction with the Arab Day for the Elderly, Her Excellency highlighted that the elders of Qatar are the foundation upon which the nation’s prosperity and stability have been built.
This special event, hosted under the patronage and attendance of Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, brought together key leaders and the elderly community to celebrate the invaluable contributions of older generations to the country’s development. As Qatar moves forward, the nation continues to honor its elders by ensuring their well-being, enhancing services for them, and recognizing their lasting influence on the younger generation.
The Foundation of the Nation’s Renaissance
During the forum, HE Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad expressed her heartfelt appreciation for the senior generation, acknowledging their role in laying the groundwork for Qatar’s modern advancements. “Fathers and mothers are the true wealth,” she stated, underscoring that this generation nurtured the values and principles that form the bedrock of Qatar’s progress. By instilling noble ethics and Islamic values, these elders have ensured that Qatar remains strong, prosperous, and grounded in its cultural identity.
Her Excellency further emphasized that it is the responsibility of the current generation to honor these elders by fulfilling their needs and improving the quality of services offered to them. She stressed that supporting and respecting Qatar’s seniors is a fundamental act of gratitude for their lifelong contributions to the country’s growth.
Ehsan’s Role in Elderly Care and Empowerment
At the heart of Qatar’s efforts to care for its senior population is the Center for Empowerment and Care of the Elderly (Ehsan), operating under the Qatar Social Work Foundation and the Ministry of Social Development and Family. Ehsan plays a crucial role in empowering the elderly by offering a range of programs designed to improve their well-being, enhance their skills, and ensure they remain active and engaged members of society.
Manal Al Mannai, Executive Director of Ehsan, highlighted the leadership’s unwavering commitment to the rights and welfare of the elderly. She noted that Qatar’s wise leadership has enacted legislation that protects the material, moral, and social rights of older citizens. These laws ensure that seniors are given the support they need to overcome age-related challenges, reaffirming the nation’s respect for its elders and their role in achieving comprehensive development.
Al Mannai commended the Qatari society for its deep respect for parents and elders, a value rooted in Islamic and Arab traditions. She further outlined Ehsan’s forward-looking vision, which seeks to align with contemporary needs by offering new services and programs aimed at developing the skills of the elderly population. These initiatives raise awareness about the unique needs of seniors, empowering them to live with dignity and independence.
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Intergenerational Bonds: Learning from Qatar’s Elders
A key highlight of the event was the sharing of stories by members of Ehsan’s clubs through a video presentation. In the video, elderly members expressed their gratitude to Qatar’s leadership and everyone involved in their care. They shared how joining Ehsan’s clubs has positively impacted their lives, providing them with community, support, and opportunities for personal development.
The forum also featured a heartwarming segment where the younger generation expressed their respect and appreciation for their elders. This exchange emphasized the knowledge and life experiences that the senior generation has passed down, creating a meaningful connection between the old and the young. These intergenerational bonds are crucial for maintaining the cultural values and traditions that continue to shape Qatari society.
Qatar Leads in Celebrating the Arab Day for the Elderly
A particularly significant moment during the forum was the acknowledgment of Qatar’s role in the establishment of the Arab Day for the Elderly. This day, celebrated annually on October 10, was approved by the General Secretariat of the Arab League during the 42nd session of the Council of Arab Social Affairs Ministers, based on Qatar’s proposal. This initiative, which started in 2023, serves as a reminder of the importance of honoring and supporting the elderly across the Arab world.
Conclusion
The forum organized by the Center for Empowerment and Care of the Elderly (Ehsan) underlines Qatar’s deep respect and gratitude toward its elderly population. By recognizing the pivotal role that seniors have played in the nation’s development, HE Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad and the leadership of Qatar continue to emphasize the importance of empowering and caring for this valued demographic.
Through its comprehensive programs, legislative support, and intergenerational initiatives, Ehsan is helping to ensure that Qatar’s elderly live with dignity and purpose. As the country moves forward, Qatar’s commitment to its elders remains an integral part of its vision for a prosperous and inclusive future.