Global Success for Our World Scholars in Doha!

Earlier this month, a group of our students took part in the Global Round of the World Scholar’s Cup in Doha, an international academic event that brings together young people from around the world to celebrate learning, debate, and cultural exchange. Following their qualification at the Regional Round in Mombasa, our two teams — Umulisa, Veer and Clemmie, and Dev, Aaryan and Fatema — bravely stepped onto the global stage to compete in four challenging categories: Team Debate, Collaborative Writing, Scholar’s Challenge and the Scholar’s Bowl.

The curriculum this year was centred around the theme ‘Reigniting the Future’ and covered a vast range of topics. Students were expected to explore the content independently, with school-based support focusing on developing their debating and creative writing skills.

Once in Doha, our teams joined approximately 1,000 students in the Junior Division (13 years and under), representing over 40 countries. The competitions were intense, but both teams rose to the challenge, with the team debates proving a particular highlight. Some of the debate topics were: ‘That every country should have a minister of futurism’, and ‘That every generation should be able to rewrite their country’s laws’.

Our younger team, amongst the youngest competitors there, gave a fantastic account of themselves, winning a trophy in the overall ‘Cria’ (baby alpaca) category along with several individual medals.

Our older team also performed brilliantly, earning medals across events and, in an outstanding achievement, secured a place at the prestigious ‘Tournament of Champions’ at Yale University — a truly remarkable feat on such a competitive international platform.

Beyond the competitions, students immersed themselves in the global Scholar’s community, enjoying an array of performances from fellow participants, including an opera recital by an 11-year-old, traditional Chinese dance, and live music acts. Our students proudly represented Kenya at the Cultural Fair, teaching visitors to sing ‘Jambo, Jambo Bwana’ while playing the drums — a moment of cultural pride and celebration.

In addition to their academic and cultural experiences, the children had the opportunity to explore the rich history and modern marvels of Doha. They discovered the important role of falcons in Qatari culture with a fascinating visit to a falcon hospital, and took in the sights, sounds, and atmosphere of Souq Waqif. At the 3-2-1 Olympic and Sports Museum, students learned about the history of global sporting achievements and even put their own physical abilities to the test in interactive challenges. The group also enjoyed a thrilling visit to Doha Quest, Qatar’s largest indoor theme park, and managed a quick photo stop at the iconic Lusail Stadium, famously known as the venue for the FIFA World Cup final.

Throughout the trip, the children demonstrated commitment, perseverance, and resilience. They worked exceptionally well as a team, supported one another, and displayed impressive social skills, curiosity, and sportsmanship at every opportunity.

Keep your eyes peeled for more from our World Scholars in the end-of-year newsletter!