The Ministry of Economy and Commerce has signed a partnership agreement with Qatar Entertainment Company (Tasali), allocating 14 meters of space at the edutainment city, KidZania, Doha which is currently under construction at Aspire Zone and will open in 2017, 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, familiarized with the means of uncovering commercial fraud, in addition to distinguishing between original and counterfeit products.
 
The ministry also intends to highlight the rights and duties of both merchants and customers, shed light on inspection campaigns carried out by the ministry in order to adjust prices and combat commercial fraud. Simulation programs will also be introduced on other services provided by the ministry, along with age-appropriate information and tips with the aim of instilling entrepreneurial and leadership skills and traits. Children will also be introduced to proper investment fundamentals that will benefit them in their future investment projects and business ventures.
 
Mr. Tariq Abdulaziz Al-Sada, Director of Public Relations and Communication at the Ministry of Economy and Commerce indicated that through its participation at KidZania, Doha – the ministry aspires to instill economy, commerce and consumer rights principles in children within the (4) to (14) years age group and raise awareness on the ministry’s various activities and services as well as shed light on their rights as consumers and be taught to distinguish between original and counterfeit products.
 
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 since programs offered are designed to teach children responsibility and accountability allowing them to take on adult roles and experience a realistic work environment.
 
Mr. Xavier Lopez, CEO and Founder of KidZania, said “We are very excited to be joined by the Ministry of Economy and Commerce as a partner to KidZania, Doha. 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 mimics a real city and has its own official currency, the “KidZo” which is dealt among children within the city. It also contains streets, cars, houses and public national institutions such as police departments, hospitals, schools, banks, a television studio, a radio station, and medical clinics and so on.