Schools Olympic Program Set to Mark 20th Edition in Qatar

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September 9, 2026
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9-September-2026

Schools Olympic Program Set to Mark 20th Edition in Qatar

DOHA – The Organizing Committee of the Schools Olympic Program (SOP) has completed preparations for the launch of the program’s 20th edition for the 2026-2027 season, which will officially get underway at the Aspire Academy Dome in October.

The new edition continues the program’s long-standing mission of promoting school sports, identifying and developing young sporting talent, and encouraging students to participate in a wide range of sports.

At a press conference held Wednesday, the Organizing Committee outlined the key features of the new edition, including the sports on the competition program, targeted age groups, as well as its objectives and development plans for the new season. These efforts further strengthen the program’s position as one of Qatar’s leading national initiatives for school sports.

HE Sheikh Khalifa bin Khalid Al-Thani, President of the Qatar School Sports Association (QSSA) and Chairman of the SOP Organizing Committee, said the Schools Olympic Program is one of the most important initiatives supporting school sports in Qatar.

He noted that QSSA has implemented the program in cooperation with the Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MOEHE) and the Qatar Olympic Committee since the 2007-2008 academic year.

His Excellency welcomed the launch of the 20th edition, describing it as an important milestone that reflects the program’s sustainability, continued development and success over the years.

He expressed hope that this landmark edition would achieve record participation, surpassing the previous edition, which attracted more than 27,000 male and female students across 36 sports.

“This strong participation is supported by our strategic partnerships with sports federations, schools and Aspire Academy, all of which contribute to our ultimate goal of preparing a promising generation of athletes who can contribute to the future of Qatari sport,” His Excellency said.

HE Sheikh Khalifa bin Khalid Al-Thani added that the new edition would go beyond traditional school competitions by creating new opportunities for students to participate, discover and develop their talents, and pursue excellence in both sport and education.

For his part, SOP Executive Director Abdulrahman Al Muftah said the launch of the 20th edition represents a significant milestone in the program’s efforts to bring sport and education closer together and strengthen Olympic values among younger generations.

He noted that the new season features a renewed vision and ambitious plans aimed at investing in students’ abilities and creating greater opportunities for their development.

Meanwhile, QSSA Board Member Jiham Al Kuwari described the 20th edition as a landmark in the program’s two-decade journey, stressing that preparations are well underway to deliver a distinguished edition.

Al Kuwari also highlighted the growth in the program’s network of sponsors and supporters over the past three years. She said the program has opened the door for more companies to contribute in line with their marketing and community objectives, alongside its key partners, foremost among them Aspire Academy.

The 20th edition of the Schools Olympic Program is expected to further strengthen the role of school sport in identifying young talent, encouraging active lifestyles and supporting the development of the next generation of Qatari athletes.