Sidra Medicine InGen Program Inspiring the Next Generation of Scientists in Qatar. Sidra Medicine, a prominent member of Qatar Foundation, has been making significant strides in inspiring young minds through its Introduction to Genomics (InGen) program.
Since its inception in 2023, the initiative has engaged over 400 high school students, giving them unparalleled access to real-life research environments and introducing them to the exciting world of genetic research. This pioneering program aims to help students make informed decisions about their future career paths in science and research, reflecting Sidra Medicine’s commitment to advancing STEM education in Qatar.
Bridging the Gap Between Education and Research
The InGen program was developed by Sidra Medicine Genomic Core team, with a clear focus on providing students with hands-on exposure to genomics and laboratory research. This innovative initiative is conducted in collaboration with Qatar’s Ministry of Education and Higher Education, welcoming 11th and 12th-grade students from 35 public and private schools across the country.
Through this program, students are able to explore the practical aspects of scientific research while also gaining a deeper understanding of theoretical concepts. Iman Al Azwani, Senior Research Specialist at Sidra Medicine and a key leader of the program, highlighted the significance of InGen: “Our InGen program has been a fantastic opportunity for the students to work alongside researchers and scientists.
It also gave them practical insight into what being in a lab and research environment would look like.” The ability to experience a real laboratory environment provides students with critical insights into the world of genetic research, equipping them with the knowledge and experience needed to make informed decisions about their future studies and careers.
A Comprehensive Approach to Learning
Sidra Medicine’s dedication to providing an immersive learning experience is evident in its specialized Biosafety Level 1 Laboratory, which is exclusively dedicated to the InGen program. Here, students engage in a range of practical activities, including DNA extraction, DNA quality checking, and DNA amplification.
These hands-on experiments allow students to gain a clear understanding of complex genetic processes while learning in a safe and controlled environment. This blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience is what sets InGen apart.
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According to Majida Tamimi, Director of STEAM and Practical Applications Programs at The International School for Medical Science and Engineering, the program has been transformative for students: “It not only introduced them to the exciting field of genomics but also provided practical, hands-on experiences that sparked their interest in pursuing careers in science and research.”
The structured approach of InGen, which combines classroom learning with laboratory work, offers students a unique opportunity to explore the world of genetics in a way that is both engaging and educational. For many students, this experience is the catalyst that drives their passion for pursuing careers in science and research, helping to shape their academic and professional futures.
Collaboration with the Ministry of Education
The success of the InGen program is a testament to the strong collaboration between Sidra Medicine and the Ministry of Education and Higher Education. This partnership plays a crucial role in ensuring that students across Qatar have access to world-class learning opportunities that bridge the gap between traditional classroom education and real-world scientific research.
Sara Al Shreim, Director of Curriculum and Learning Resources Department at the Ministry of Education, emphasized the importance of this collaboration: “The InGen program aligns with our vision of fostering a new generation of scientifically literate students who are well-prepared to contribute to the future of healthcare and research in Qatar.”
By offering students the chance to engage with cutting-edge technologies and participate in real scientific research, the program is helping to cultivate a generation of young scientists who are ready to contribute to Qatar’s growing role in the global scientific community.
Supporting Qatar National Vision 2030
One of the key aspects of the InGen program is its alignment with Qatar National Vision 2030, which emphasizes the development of a knowledge-based economy through education, innovation, and research. Dr. Sara Tomei, Acting Director of the Integrated Genomic Services Lab at Sidra Medicine, highlighted the broader impact of the program, stating, “By sharing InGen framework and successes with other institutes, we believe they can replicate and adapt the student model to train more high schoolers.”
This approach ensures that the program’s impact extends beyond Sidra Medicine, contributing to the national development strategy and supporting Qatar’s vision of becoming a leader in STEM education.
InGen focus on STEM education is crucial in preparing the next generation of researchers, scientists, and innovators who will drive Qatar future. By giving students hands-on experience in genetic research and other scientific disciplines, the program is helping to cultivate a skilled workforce capable of tackling some of the world’s most pressing challenges, particularly in the fields of healthcare and medical research.
A Model for Future Education
As the InGen program continues to grow, it serves as a model for educational institutions worldwide looking to integrate real-world research experiences into their curricula. By offering students a platform to engage with genomics and other cutting-edge scientific fields, Sidra Medicine is not only advancing its own research goals but also inspiring the next generation of innovators.
The success of InGen demonstrates the power of collaboration between educational institutions, government agencies, and research organizations in creating meaningful opportunities for students. As the program continues to expand, it will undoubtedly play a key role in shaping the future of science and research in Qatar, helping to fulfill the nation’s vision of becoming a global leader in education and innovation.
Conclusion
The Introduction to Genomics (InGen) program at Sidra Medicine is a shining example of how education, research, and innovation can come together to inspire the next generation of scientists and researchers. By providing high school students with hands-on experience in genetic research and fostering a passion for STEM education, Sidra Medicine is not only contributing to the academic and professional futures of its students but also supporting the broader goals of Qatar National Vision 2030.
Through its collaboration with the Ministry of Education, Sidra Medicine is helping to shape a new generation of scientifically literate students who are prepared to take on the challenges of the future. With programs like InGen, Qatar is well on its way to becoming a global hub for research, innovation, and education.