The Ministry of Economy and Commerce has signed a partnership agreement with Qatar Entertainment Company (Tasali), allocating 14 metres of space at the edutainment city, KidZania, Doha which is currently under construction at Aspire Zone, making the ministry the first strategic government partner.

The partnership comes as part of the Ministry of Economy and Commerce’s efforts to promote children’s understanding and raise awareness about the diverse services offered by the ministry. Children will be educated on the ministry’s role in relation to consumer rights and consumer protection, familiarised with the means of uncovering commercial fraud, in addition to distinguishing between original and counterfeit products.

MEC also intends to highlight the rights and duties of both merchants and customers, shedding light on the inspection campaigns carried out by MEC to control prices and combat commercial fraud. Simulation programmes will be introduced on the services provided by the ministry, alongside the age-appropriate information and tips with the aim of instilling entrepreneurial and leadership skills and traits in children. Further, children will be introduced to the proper investment fundamentals that will benefit them in their future investment projects and business ventures.

Tariq Abdulaziz al-Sada, director, public relations and communication at MEC, pointed out that through its participation at KidZania, Doha, MEC hopes to instill economy, commerce and consumer rights principles in children within the age category of 4-14, and raise their awareness of the ministry’s various
activities and services.
Children will be educated in a simple age-appropriate style on the importance of trade and introduced to economic concepts – all in an interactive, fun and safe environment, especially that the programmes offered are designed to teach children responsibility and accountability, allowing them to take on adult roles and experience a realistic work environment.
Xavier Lopez, CEO and founder, KidZania, said: “The signing of this agreement signifies profound proof that government institutions are as committed as we are in inspiring children and giving them the opportunity to experience working in different areas, within advanced facilities, offering them a highly entertaining educational experience, that will assist in boosting their confidence and impart a sense of belonging to their community.”
KidZania, Doha has been designed in the form of a small town which replicates a real city and has its own official currency, the “kidzo” which is dealt with among children within the city. It also includes streets, cars, houses and public and national institutions such as police departments, hospitals, schools, banks, a television studio, a radio station, and medical clinics and so on.