A view of QU Orientation Day.
Doha, Qatar: Qatar University (QU) recently hosted its annual orientation meeting for new faculty members. The event, organised by the Human Resources Department, aimed to introduce the university’s services, culture, and various departments to the incoming staff, fostering a seamless onboarding experience.
“QU’s annual orientation meeting embodies our commitment to nurturing excellence and empowering our new faculty members. This event stands as a testament to our dedication to fostering a vibrant academic community and equipping our faculty members with the tools they need to excel,” said Mohammad Al Marri, Director of the Human Resources Department at QU.
Afrah Hadi Alathba, Head of the Recruitment Department in Human Resources Management, underscored the importance of the event, stating that it is designed to streamline procedures and provide robust support for new faculty members, particularly those joining from other countries.
She emphasised that the event’s primary goal is to bridge the gap between the university’s vast offerings and the incoming faculty’s needs.
“QU’s orientation event plays a pivotal role in streamlining procedures and ensuring that our new faculty members feel supported from the very beginning of their journey. We understand the challenges that international faculty may face when acclimating to a new environment, and that’s why our event spans over three days, leaving no room for confusion or hesitation,” said Alathba.
Mashael Al Qahtani, Senior Transportation Supervisor in the Transportation Department elaborated on the comprehensive services provided to faculty members.
“We are more than just a transportation service; we are an integral part of QU’s ecosystem,” said Qahtani. “In addition to offering reliable transportation options, we are excited to introduce Hayak,’ a groundbreaking service that allows employees to navigate the campus effortlessly without prior reservation. This new initiative underscores our dedication to innovation and ease of access.”
Mahmoud Al Haidoos and Jasim Bastaki from the Housing Department emphasised the team’s commitment to helping the new faculty members settle.
“We believe that the right living environment can significantly impact a faculty member’s ability to excel in their role,” said Al Haidoos added.
Muhammed Sabith from IT said, “We understand the pivotal role technology plays in today’s educational landscape. To empower our new faculty, we provide them with state-of-the-art laptops and offer unparalleled IT support. Our team is dedicated to resolving any technical challenges that arise, allowing our educators to focus on what truly matters: providing quality education.”
On the other hand, Saad Atef from the Recruitment Department reiterated the institution’s commitment to fostering a sense of belonging. Atef said the department helps guide new faculty members through essential steps like opening bank accounts, conducting residency or medical examinations, and applying for salary advances. They also provide tours, health insurance enrolment, housing, transportation services, and support for salary and benefits procedures.
New faculty members were also full of praise for QU’s dedication to excellence. Mohammed Abu Shala, an English language instructor in the Foundation Program, stated, “The warmth and organisation of this event are truly commendable. QU has not only welcomed us but has embraced us with open arms, setting the stage for a fulfilling journey ahead.”
Irina Constantinova, a new faculty member, echoed this sentiment, noting, “The orientation day has been a seamless experience, with every detail thoughtfully arranged to aid our integration into the QU community. From healthcare to transportation, everything has been simplified, allowing us to focus on our roles as educators.”
The annual orientation meeting stands as a testament to QU’s commitment to nurturing a diverse and thriving academic community.
As new faculty members embark on their journey, they are welcomed with open arms and provided with the essential tools to thrive in their roles.
The comprehensive support system, coupled with cutting-edge technology and unwavering hospitality, sets the stage for a successful and fulfilling academic year.
