Aspire Academy celebrates graduation of 18th cohort as it marks 20th anniversary

In the presence of H.E. Engineer Yasser Abdullah Al-Jamal, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Sports and Youth, Aspire Academy celebrated the graduation of its 18th cohort on Wednesday evening in a ceremony held at the Academy Dome. The Class of 2025 graduation coincided with the conclusion of the Academy’s 20th-anniversary celebrations, marking two decades of dedication to developing Qatari champions across various sports.

Also in attendance were H.E. Tarek Abdulaziz Al-Naama, Vice President of Aspire Zone Foundation; Mr. Abdullah Nasser Al-Naimi, Acting CEO of Aspire Zone Foundation; and Mr. Mohammed bin Khalifa Al-Suwaidi, former CEO of Aspire Zone and current Director General of Hamad Medical Corporation and Vice President of the Qatar Football Association. The ceremony also welcomed representatives of national sports federations, senior figures, teachers, training staff, and families of the 18th cohort of student-athletes.

During the ceremony, 46 student-athletes across various sports received their graduation certificates, bringing the total number of graduates since Aspire Academy’s founding in 2004 to approximately 688.

Class of 2025: A Sporting Legacy

The Class of 2025 includes 20 footballers, 4 football referees, 17 track and field athletes, 3 swimmers, and 2 squash players.

Certificates were handed out by Mr. Ali Salem Afifa, Deputy Director General of Aspire Academy; Mr. Jassim Al-Jaber, Principal of Aspire School; and Mr. Bader Jassim Al-Hay, Director of Education and Student Affairs at Aspire Academy.

Afifa: Aspire Remains True to Its Clear Vision

The ceremony opened with Qatar’s national anthem, followed by a recitation from the Holy Qur’an by graduate athlete Osama Mohammed. In his opening remarks, Mr. Ali Salem Afifa welcomed guests and praised Mr. Mohammed bin Khalifa Al-Suwaidi for his key role in the institution’s journey.

Afifa said, “Since its inception in 2004, Aspire Academy has upheld a clear vision and an honest motto: Developing Champions in Sport and Life. We’ve successfully combined athletic excellence with academic achievement, producing role models who proudly represent Qatar.”

He thanked coaches, teachers, and support staff for their tireless work in training, educating, and guiding the students, noting that their efforts formed the foundation of every athletic and academic achievement celebrated that night.

Afifa expressed pride in the accomplishments of past graduates across fields such as sports, medicine, engineering, and aviation. He highlighted that several graduates from this class would represent Qatar at the upcoming U-17 FIFA World Cup to be hosted by Qatar in November.

The graduation also marked 20 years since the Academy’s founding—an occasion to reflect on achievements and look forward with confidence to continued success and international recognition for Qatar.

Concluding his speech, Afifa addressed the graduates: “You are the fruit of years of hard work and collaboration. Aspire Academy and Qatar are proud of you. Armed with knowledge, values, and discipline, move forward confidently and remain a model of performance and ethics.”

He prayed for Qatar’s continued security and prosperity under the wise leadership of His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Amir of the State of Qatar.

Al-Jaber: True Success Is to Inspire Others

Mr. Jassim Mohammed Al-Jaber, Principal of Aspire School, thanked the guests and spoke on behalf of the school in celebration of Aspire Academy’s 20th anniversary. He acknowledged the efforts of parents, teachers, coaches, and staff who accompanied the students throughout their journey.

Al-Jaber emphasized that graduating the 18th cohort amidst the 20th anniversary celebrations was a testament to the Academy’s success in nurturing both athletic and academic talent. “Today we celebrate the graduation of 46 new promising individuals,” he said.

He reminded the graduates that success is an ongoing journey and encouraged them to carry the Academy’s values into their future as ambassadors of Aspire. “True success lies not only in achievements but in respect, teamwork, and cultural awareness—and most of all, in inspiring others.”

Short Films Showcasing the Aspire Journey

The ceremony featured two short films chronicling the Academy’s journey. The first, titled The Champion, portrayed the educational and sporting excellence of Aspire students.

The second film, Mansour – To Become a Star, drew inspiration from the musical play Aspire to Be a Star, which was staged during the Academy’s inauguration in 2005. It follows Mansour, the son of a ruler, on a magical journey at Aspire Academy to become a star like his friend, the guiding star.

Al-Hajri: We Begin a New Chapter

Speaking on behalf of the graduates, footballer Fahd Al-Hajri expressed gratitude to everyone who supported the students, noting that they were now turning a new page after years of dedication at Aspire. “We’re proud of what we’ve learned and achieved. Ahead lies a future full of ambition and challenge, and we are ready to face it with knowledge and determination.”

He concluded with heartfelt thanks to the mentors, staff, and educators who paved the way for this moment.

Conclusion of 20th Anniversary Celebrations

With the graduation of the Class of 2025, Aspire Academy concluded its 20th-anniversary celebrations—a landmark that underscores its commitment to excellence in education and sport.

With 688 graduates to date, Aspire continues to shape the future of Qatari athletes, instilling in them discipline, leadership, and national pride. The 46 graduates of the 18th cohort now move forward inspired by years of training and learning, ready to follow in the footsteps of Aspire’s many successful alumni.