Officials, guests and student-athletes at the Aspire Academy graduation ceremony.
Doha: Aspire Academy hosted a graduation ceremony on Wednesday for its 18th batch of graduates.
The function was held in the presence of Undersecretary of the Ministry of Sports and Youth H E Yasir bin Abdullah bin Ahmed Al-Jamal.
Also in attendance at the prestigious event were Aspire Zone Foundation’s Acting CEO, Abdullah Nasser Al-Nuaimi and his predecessor, Mohammed Khalifa Al-Suwaidi, who is now the Director General of Hamad Medical Corporation as well as Vice-President of the Qatar Football Association.
They were joined by other dignitaries, families, and sports leaders, who paid tribute to the achievements of the Academy’s 18th batch of graduates. A total of 46 student-athletes have joined the illustrious ranks of Aspire Academy alumni, bringing the total number of graduates to 688.
The class of 2025 is made up of 20 footballers, four referees, 17 track and field athletes, three swimmers, and two squash players. The event, held at Aspire Dome, coincided with the Academy’s 20th anniversary celebrations, which have marked two decades of excellence in nurturing Qatar’s future sports champions.
Following a reading from the Quran by graduating track and field athlete Osama Mahmoud, Aspire Academy’s Deputy Director General, Ali Salem Afifa, addressed the ceremony to congratulate the graduates and their parents, as well as thank all the staff involved in their development. “Today, a new generation of distinguished individuals joins the ranks of our graduates. We are confident that the future holds even greater success for them,” he said.
“We are also proud that several graduates from this batch will represent Qatar in November’s Under-17 World Cup, hosted by Qatar. Aspire Academy and Aspire Zone Foundation’s facilities will be at the heart of this major event. This graduation year coincides with the Academy’s celebration of its 20th anniversary—a moment to reflect on past achievements and look forward with hope and confidence to continued success and raising Qatar’s name high on the international stage.”
“You, the graduates, are the result of years of hard work, collaboration, and determination. You are the pride of Aspire Academy and the pride of Qatar. As you embark on a new chapter, you are equipped with knowledge, values, and discipline. Walk forward with confidence and continue to be exemplary performers and characters."
On behalf of the school, Principal Jassem Al Jaber paid tribute to the last 20 years of Aspire Academy and wished the graduates all the best for their future.
“This graduation marks the latest chapter in twenty years of tireless work and continuous achievement, during which Aspire Academy has become a pioneering model in nurturing both athletic and academic talent. You are its finest fruit, having upheld standards of excellence and dedication,” he said.
“As you prepare for a new chapter as ambassadors of Aspire Academy, always remember that your distinction will not be measured solely by the magnitude of your achievements, but by the depth of your respect, team spirit, and cultural awareness with which you will lead in the fields of success. True success is to be a person who inspires others.”
Guests enjoyed a series of spotlight videos that showcased Aspire Academy’s mission and achievements.