SOLIYA CONNECT PROGRAM

The Connect Program (http://soliya.net) is one of the most innovative and engaging cross-cultural leadership programs to date.  In an effort to address the ongoing tensions between the ""West"" and the ""Arab & Muslim World"", Soliya uses cutting edge technology to bring college students from around the world together to bridge the communication gap that often lies at the root of these misunderstandings.  Program outcomes include the enhancement of cross-cultural communication, conflict resolution, and media literacy skills as well as an increased knowledge of global affairs among others.

Historically (since 2003), the Connect Program has only been done in a curricular setting.  However, last spring Education City piloted a co-curricular program with CMUQ and TAMUQ.  For eight weeks, seven Education City students participated in two hour dialogue sessions with a diverse group of students from around the globe and a trained facilitator.  In addition, to help prepare them for these ""chat"" sessions, students were expected to read a series of articles that represented numerous perspectives and demonstrated the true complexity of the issues.  Students also completed a video project that put them in the role of news editor.  Finally, every other week, all participants and EC facilitators would gather to debrief the ongoing experience and discuss unanswered questions.  At the conclusion of the program, each participant received an official Certificate of Completion on behalf of Soliya and the Qatar Foundation. 

Fall 2009

Due to the Holy Month of Ramadan, this year's program will begin in mid-October and will be open to only twelve Education City undergraduate students from any institution.  Specific details regarding registration and the fall program schedule will be forthcoming in September.  If you have any questions about the Soliya Connect Program please contact Curt Kenoyer, QF Campus Life Coordinator, at ckenoyer@qf.org.qa.