Doha: Qatar University (QU) inaugurated the new academic year yesterday with the annual convocation in which QU President Prof Sheikha Abdulla Al Misnad addressed the QU community, providing direction and guidance for the year ahead and reflected on achievements and developments in the previous academic year.
The QU leadership, deans, heads of departments, programme directors, faculty members, staff, students and alumni attended.
Prof Al Misnad updated participants on the university’s progress in line with goals in the strategic plan and ongoing initiatives such as accreditation, new degree programmes and research.
Awards were presented to distinguished faculty, alumni and staff for their achievements and accomplishments.
Prof Al Misnad welcomed new faculty members and wished them a successful year, urging them to spare no effort in advancing quality and excellence.
“Over the past academic year, the university witnessed considerable expansion in line with the country’s increasing development, which necessitated the launch of new majors and the expansion of graduate and undergraduate programme as well as research endeavours.
“Launching a new programme or major such as the new PhD in environmental sciences at the College of Arts and Sciences is a process that must take into account factors, including the Qatar National Vision 2030, the national development strategy and labour market needs”.
She highlighted the importance of establishing action plans in each unit and programme in line with the QU’s strategic plan and urged everyone to work hard towards achieving their plans to realise the overall goals.
“Our research endeavours reflect community needs and priorities outlined in national development strategies which aim to build a knowledge-based society. We are proud of our increasing research grants from Qatar National Research Fund and awards received in local, regional and international research competitions. With the involvement of a large number of talented students in these competitions, we have achieved top places and gained top grants”.
She noted the importance of interdisciplinary activity between colleges, programmes and research institutions and said: “We aim to graduate students who are able to adapt to any job environment. The exchange of experience between colleges and programmes will increase their personal and academic professionalism”.
Prof Al Misnad, QU Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Dr Homaid Abdulla Al Midfaa and Vice President and Chief Academic Officer Dr Mazen Hasna presented awards to a number of people.
The Peninsula
