A shared vision realised: Inaugurating Qatar’s first Australian qualifications

Doha, Qatar: Barzan University College (BUC), in partnership with Swinburne University of Technology, Australia, marked a historic milestone on Tuesday, September 30, with the formal inauguration of Qatar’s first Australian tertiary qualifications. 

The inauguration, held at Le Royal Meridien, was graced by His Excellency Shane Flanagan, Australian Ambassador to Qatar, Dr. Hassan Al-Derham, Vice-Chairman of BUC, Professor Pascale Quester, Vice-Chancellor and President of Swinburne University of Technology and her senior delegates from Australia and Eng. Abdur Rahman, Co-Founder & CEO of BUC. More than 100 government, industry, academic and community leaders were specially invited to mark this momentous occasion.

A New Era of Higher Education

In his welcome address, Dr. Hassan Al-Derham reflected on the long-term vision that inspired BUC: “Barzan University College was built with a vision to redefine higher education. Today, with Swinburne as our partner, we reaffirm our commitment to deliver international quality education that empowers young people with the skills, confidence, and mindset to succeed. We want our graduates to drive Qatar and the region forward as thought leaders and innovators, prepared for careers and opportunities that are yet to emerge.”

This partnership marks the first time that Australian degrees will be delivered in Qatar, offering world-class programmes in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Engineering, and Business. These disciplines directly support Qatar’s priorities in diversifying its economy, building knowledge-based sectors, and preparing the next generation of leaders.

Shared Ambition, Shared Commitment

Delivering the keynote, Professor Pascale Quester emphasised the strong alignment between the two institutions: “At Swinburne, we challenge tradition, we embrace and lead change, and we forge new paths. That is why this partnership with Barzan University College feels like such a natural fit. Together, we are creating real impact, driven by deep industry connections, and equipping students to become changemakers in their communities.”

Swinburne brings extensive experience in transnational education through its successful partnerships in countries such as Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Vietnam and China. Its hallmark is the integration of real-world industry experience into every degree programme, ensuring that graduates are industry-ready.

Strengthening the Australia–Qatar Relationship

In his remarks, His Excellency Shane Flanagan described the event as “a shared vision realised. Like Qatar, Swinburne is unapologetically ambitious. It is committed to pushing boundaries, forging deep industry partnerships, and delivering graduates who are job-ready and globally competitive. This partnership will give Qatar the confidence that its students are receiving education aligned to its national goals, one that supports a thriving economy and prepares its youth for future opportunities both here and globally.”

A special momento was awarded to the Ambassador in recognition of his role in facilitating and supporting the partnership, highlighting the importance of diplomatic leadership in making this vision possible.

The Ambassador also highlighted how the BUC – Swinburne partnership reflects broader momentum in Australia – Qatar relations, with growing cooperation in fields such as technology and aviation.

Building Qatar’s Future Together

Closing the evening, Eng. Abdur Rahman, Co-Founder & CEO of BUC, emphasised the institution’s role as a catalyst for Qatar’s long-term growth. “BUC develops pioneers who will shape Qatar’s future on the global stage. Through industry-based learning, technology driven classrooms, and strong partnerships with local and international stakeholders, we are building a multinational, multicultural ecosystem that makes BUC a regional leader in higher education. We are determined to be advocates for growth, innovation, and transformative impact across Qatar and the region.”

Swinburne Delegation in Qatar

As part of the official visit to Qatar, Swinburne delegates Professor Pascale Quester (Vice-Chancellor and President), Professor Simon Ridings (Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Chief Academic Officer), Professor Emad Gad (Executive Dean, School of Engineering), Neema Cucinotta (Director, Transnational Education Partnerships) and Professor Tien D. Kieu (Council Member) attended a series of events which included ceremonies to welcome the first cohort of foundation, undergraduate and postgraduate students.

The delegates will also participate in meetings with industry and government representatives as well as a curated Australia Qatar Strategic Forum on Shaping the Future of Talent, Academia & Industry hosted by the Australian Ambassador to Qatar.

As Professor Quester noted: “A Swinburne qualification offers more than knowledge. It delivers real experience, real skills, and real connections. That is what sets us apart. And through this partnership, students in Qatar will now have access to an education designed for lifelong success.”

With this partnership, BUC aims to position itself as both a premier education provider in Qatar and a thought leader in the Middle East. By combining academic excellence, industry integration, and global mobility pathways, BUC will prepare graduates to address complex challenges while contributing to the realisation of Qatar National Vision 2030.

About Barzan University College (BUC)

Barzan University College is Qatar’s premier higher education institution, dedicated to transforming education by combining international standards with local relevance. Established to create global opportunities for students, BUC partnered with Swinburne University of Technology, Australia, to deliver programs that prioritise employability, innovation, and lifelong learning.

About Swinburne University of Technology, Australia

Swinburne University of Technology is a globally ranked Australian university known for its strong focus on innovation, industry collaboration, and real-world learning. With campuses in Melbourne (Australia) and Sarawak (Malaysia), and a network of international teaching and research partnerships, Swinburne is recognised for delivering future-focused education that prepares students to thrive in an ever-changing world.