QNA

DOHA MORE than 2,000 families are expected to participate in the celebrations in Doha to mark the annual World Environment Day (WED) on Friday.

A painting contest will be held from May 25 to June 5 to commemorate the occasion.

Over 1,500 entries have already been received for the painting contest and the WED team estimates it to cross 2,000 entries this year.

The International Academy for Intercultural Development (IAID), in association with the Friends of the Environment Centre (FEC), has been the major organisers of the World Environment Day (WED) celebrations in Qatar held for the sixth consecutive year under the auspices of FEC Chairman Dr Saif Ali al Hajri.

The theme of the World Environment Day celebrated all over the world is initiated by the United Nations Environment Programme. This year’s event is titled ‘Green Economy – does it include you?’ “A green economy is one where environmental risks are significantly reduced and based around sustainable development for the betterment of the people in that society,” Hajri said. “Qatar has put environment clearly on the top of the agenda as it is one of the four pillars of Qatar National Vision 2030.

So, it is important that everyone, individuals and organisations alike, consider the role they can play and actively contributes to building a green economy.” IAID Director Rajesh Jadhav said the mission of the event is to foster environmental education among today’s youth, who are the stewards of tomorrow’s economy.

The painting contest is open to all age groups and will be held at the IAID premises in Mansoura on Friday and Saturday, with the final Awards and Closing Ceremony along with prize-winning exhibits at Al Rayyan Theatre in Souq Waqif on June 5. Exciting gifts, cash prizes, trophies and certificates await the winners.