Doha: The College of Medicine at Qatar University (QU-CMED) celebrated the graduation of its first batch of graduates, which included 46 students — 65 percent females, as part of the graduation of the 44th batch that was held yesterday.
Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) has selected 42 of the college’s graduates to complete their postgraduate medical residency training program, including 13 different internationally accredited specialities.
Vice-Dean of the College of Medicine Dr. Marwan Abu-Hijleh affirmed that the first batch of graduates represents an accomplishment and an international reference that grants the college confidence in its educational outcomes and boosts the graduates’ confidence in the quality of education they have obtained.
Dr. Abu-Hijleh added that this achievement also enhances the healthcare system in Qatar.
He pointed out that despite the challenges imposed by the coronavirus pandemic, the pandemic provided opportunities for medical institutions and hospitals in Qatar and worldwide to develop and thrive.
Although QU CMED’s students could not practice the usual field training in hospitals during the first few months, they were compensated during the following summer, where they received their clinical training.
Dr. Abu-Hijleh added that the pandemic has allowed them to expand their knowledge in infectious diseases, identify viruses and conduct extensive research on them - providing them with additional experience on how to deal with any future pandemics.
Dr. Abu-Hijleh said that 115 students had been accepted this year, stressing that there has been an increase in college applications after the first year, though the public did not have great confidence in the college — given it was recently established. However, QU-CMED has proved its worth and quality of education year after year.
