Doha, January 14 (QNA) - University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST) today started its inaugural GCC Universities Sport and Wellness Symposium.

The three-day conference brings together senior university sport and wellness leaders, national and international sport federation representatives, government officials, sport experts and university students from across the region.

The conference aims to promote growth and foster collaboration for regional student sport opportunities while exploring the importance of wellness in student setting.

Held over 14-16 January, 2024, the symposium is organised by UDST's Sport and Wellness Department, with the support of active event partners Federation Internationale du Sport Universitaire (FISU), and the Qatar Collegiate Sport Federation (QCSF).

HE Undersecretary of the Ministry of Education and Higher Education and President of QCSF Dr. Ibrahim Saleh Al Naimi reiterated the importance of building higher education institutions that play a center-stage role in sports at both regional and global levels.

He said: "This symposium, is not just fostering sport and wellness in the educational settings, but also nurturing the holistic well-being of our youth. Integrating sports into our educational fabric ensures that physical wellness and academic achievement go hand in hand. We are pleased with the participation of many high-level delegations from the GCC which underscores the importance of collaboration in building healthier, more vibrant university communities across the region."

Commenting on the event, Dr. Salem Al-Naemi, President of University of Doha for Science and Technology said: "UDST, in alignment with Qatar National Vision 2030 that embraces sports as a crucial tool for growth and well-being, hosts this event, underscoring Qatar's dedication as a passionate sporting nation.

The integration of exercise and wellness into education institutions is essential, and a large part of how our University cultivates well-rounded individuals who thrive in both academic and extracurricular domains.

Studies have shown that physical activity could improve focus and attention notably in mathematics and science subjects. Furthermore, sports programs are an important tool for reducing violence and improving student behavior.

By hosting this event, we aim to encourage stronger awareness among attendees and achieve an enhanced understanding of how important student wellness is in the post-secondary education sector."