By Fazeena Saleem
The Qatar Foundation yesterday named its proposed university after the Emir H H Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa
Al Thani.
“To show our gratitude for what you have achieved for our nation, we would be honoured if you will permit us to name this new institution Hamad Bin Khalifa University of Education City,” said H H Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, at the fourth annual senior convocation held at the ceremonial court of the Education City.
This new multi-disciplinary university will combine the learning, teaching and research being carried out at the branch campuses of the universities and other academic centres at the Education City.
H E Sheikh Dr Abdulla bin Ali Al Thani, who is also Vice President (Education) of Qatar Foundation, will be the first president of Hamad Bin Khalifa University.
“Given the importance of education and research in our country’s development, it is appropriate that this university be named after His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani,” said Dr Al Thani.
“Qatar Foundation’s academic network enables it to offer programmes the quality of which matches that of its partner institutions. Now we are seeking even greater benefits for Qatar and the region by guiding their convergence into a multi-disciplinary, research-led university,” he further said.
Sheikha Moza had announced the setting up of the university last year, emphasising the need to enhance Qatar Foundation’s network. “During the period after the announcement, much work has been done to ensure that we gain the full benefits of the diverse talent and expertise among our partners here at Education City,” said Dr Al Thani.
Hamad Bin Khalifa University will also build upon the strong partnerships with some of the world’s leading universities and research centres. Many new research and undergraduate programmes, new collaborations among academic, industry and public sector partners will be undertaken.
Dr Al Thani added that the university will provide education and support research projects at the highest level, enabling young people to use their skills for the future. This will contribute to the development and progress of our nation and make it a centre of new thinking.
“We will become an even stronger community of scholars and researchers, and evolve into a leading university, standing among the world’s best,” said Dr Al Thani.
“As we grow and our partnerships deepen, the results of our teaching and research will have an even greater influence on our economy and society. This will benefit us all, and will be a major step in the implementation of our country’s National Development Strategy, which calls for the enrichment of human resources.” A plaque with the university’s name on it was presented to the Emir by Sheikha Moza and Dr Al Thani.
A project management office has been set up for the development of Hamad Bin Khalifa University, based on the programmes being offered by Qatar Foundation’s university
partners.
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