Latest news with #EducationCity
Al Bawaba
7 days ago
- Al Bawaba
QF's Inaugural BilAraby Summit Showcased How Arabic Language Can Thrive in Digital Age
Qatar Foundation's inaugural BilAraby Summit, held in Doha earlier this year, showcased Arabic-language innovation focusing on how it can evolve in the era of Artificial Intelligence, digitization, and entrepreneurship, while highlighting how, despite the advancements, it can continue to preserve its rich cultural essence. Held at Qatar Foundation's (QF) Education City, the summit amplified ideas and voices from across the Arabic-speaking world by bringing together more than 800 technology experts, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders who, through panel discussions, interactive workshops, and dialogue-driven sessions, explored the future of Arabic as a dynamic, modern language that continues to evolve. "This summit focused on practical models demonstrating Arabic's value as a language of science and innovation," said Dr. Anwar Dafa-Alla, Translation Consultant at the BilAraby Initiative. Dr. Dafa-Alla participated in an exploratory session titled "Translating BilAraby Content: A Bridge to Global Communication," where he underlined the initiative's Open Translation Project which aims to translate Arabic content into multiple languages, extending its reach to a global audience. Dr. Dafa-Alla said the project seeks to make BilAraby sessions accessible worldwide, freely disseminate knowledge, and support the digital growth of the Arabic language. It also aims to strengthen Arab identity globally, and foster social impact by sharing inspiring ideas with non-Arabic speakers. In light of the success of the inaugural summit, BilAraby is preparing for its second edition alongside a number of regional events. Faisal Alagel, Chief Executive Producer of Sard Group from Kuwait, said: "In recent years, we have seen a renewed focus on questions of identity and language within Arab society. This shift marks a new phase of reexamining the values that shape our lives, the language we use to think, to speak with one another and with our children, and to create arts and sciences. The BilAraby Summit offered a valuable platform for dialogue and the exchange of experiences and expertise among content creators and professionals engaged in the Arab world." He added: "We are inspired by a long, rich legacy of authentic Arab and Islamic heritage. It is essential to draw from this heritage to inform and inspire our present, rather than rely solely on importing knowledge and ideas from the West or living in the past to avoid the responsibility of progress. We must continue the journey through sustained, tireless effort." Alagel emphasized the importance of gatherings, which bring together key stakeholders from across the Arab world. Among these compelling voices who shared their story at the summit was Abdul Rahman Sayidi from Mauritania, a business administration researcher and academic advisor, who introduced a visionary model of working that harmonizes with the rhythms of the universe and human nature. He explained that his model, which blends philosophy and science, depicts time as a facilitator of life, rather than a source of stress. He said: 'We need systems that align with our natural rhythms, making work part of our life rather than its entirety. Work should express who we are, not burden us. We need systems that balance productivity with human essence.' The summit also spotlighted the journey of Arab innovators including Egyptian engineer Taimur Al-Hadidi, who built a house entirely using recycled materials; Diana Al-Sindi, the Iraqi engineer at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), who inspired by distant stars, taught Arab youth that space is an adventure for all; and Jordanian educator Salam Katanani, who transformed the world of science into a realm of exploration and excitement. These stories collectively echoed the Summit's core message that Arabic is not just a language of the past—it is a language of ideas, innovation, and the future.
Fox News
18-05-2025
- Business
- Fox News
Qatar dumped billions into US schools over last four decades: report
Qatar has dumped billions into U.S. universities over the last four decades, The Free Press reported. The Sunni Gulf State has made headlines after gifting President Donald Trump a splashy $400 million plane dubbed the "palace in the sky," and has recently hosted him as part of his whirlwind Middle East tour. The White House announced that Qatar agreed to invest $243.5 billion in U.S. businesses Thursday. Qatar has also served as a mediator between Israel and Hamas amid hostage and ceasefire negotiations since the terrorist group invaded the Jewish state on Oct. 7. Qatar, a monarchy ruled by the Al-Thani family, has seen a rapid reversal of fortunes in its international standing in recent years. In 2017, the small Gulf state — home to just 2.65 million people — was the subject of an economic and travel blockade launched by Saudi Arabia and other Arab states who accused it of being too close to Iran and sponsoring terrorism. But today, Qatar enjoys warm relations with the United States and is a major player in world affairs. The emirate is the biggest foreign funder of American universities, donating $4.7 billion between the years of 2000 and 2021, according to a 2022 National Association of Scholars Study, and has spent $6.3 billion on American colleges since the government began keeping records in 1986, The Free Press reported. Qatar even boasts an "Education City" that hosts branches of several elite American Universities. Northwestern University opened a journalism school in the wealthy gulf state in 2025, receiving over $600 million in funding from Qatar. Cornell's Qatar medical school, established in 2001, received nearly $1.8 billion from the country, Carnegie Mellon's Qatari extension received over $740 million from the oil-rich country, Texas A&M's Engineering school in Qatar received nearly $700 million in funding, Virginia Common Wealth University in Qatar received $100 million and Georgetown University in Doha received over $760 million from the monarchy. Georgetown University in Qatar awarded Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, mother of Qatari Emir Tamim bin Hamad al Thani, its "President's Award" in April. Bint Nasser manages the Qatar Foundation which oversees education in the city. The Qatari royal praised Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar after he was assassinated by the IDF in Oct. 2024. "The name Yahya means the one who lives. They thought him dead but he lives. Like his namesake, Yahya bin Zakariya, he will live on and they will be gone," she posted on X. Multiple Hamas leaders, worth a reported $11 billion, reside in luxury hotels in Qatar. The Gulf state has long maintained that they host terrorist officials at the request of the U.S., in order to better negotiate between them and Israel. Critics have alleged that Qatar's deep-pocketed support of American universities has fueled the antisemitism crisis plaguing U.S. colleges. Fox News' Bret Baier asked Qatar's Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani about the country's large investments in American universities Thursday. Al-Thani dismissed accusations that his country is trying to "buy influence" and instead said that the expenditures were made to provide an "American quality" education for people in the Middle East. "Throughout the last 25 years… you will always see Qatar by the side of the U.S. in many areas, in many things," Al-Thani said. Former President Joe Biden designated Qatar a major non-NATO ally in 2022. The emirate is home to a U.S. air force base which Qatar pays to maintain. Trump announced that Qatar will invest $10 billion into the base as part of its recent economic deal with the U.S. Qatar, Georgetown, Carnegie Mellon, Northwestern, Texas A&M, Cornell and Virginia Commonwealth University did not respond to a request for comment for this story.
Qatar Tribune
15-05-2025
- Business
- Qatar Tribune
Carnegie Mellon University and QF extend partnership for another decade
Tribune News Network Doha The partnership of knowledge formed two decades ago between Carnegie Mellon University, one of the world's leading universities, and Qatar Foundation has been extended for a further 10 years. The announcement comes at the end of an academic year in which Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar (CMU-Q), a Qatar Foundation (QF) partner university, celebrated its 20th anniversary, and as QF marks 30 years since its establishment. The extension agreement was signed by Her Excellency Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, vice-chairperson and CEO of Qatar Foundation, and Farnam Jahanian, president of Carnegie Mellon University, at an Education City ceremony which was attended by US Ambassador to the State of Qatar His Excellency Timmy Davis. CMU-Q has graduated more than 1,400 students from its undergraduate degree programmes in biological sciences, business administration, computer science, and information systems. In the last academic year, CMU-Q was home to more than 450 students of 61 nationalities, 39 percent of whom are Qatari, and 56 percent of whom are female. Its alumni have gone on to become leaders and drivers of change in Qatar and around the world in fields such as Artificial Intelligence, technology entrepreneurship, science, and finance, at companies including Amazon, Google, IBM, and Microsoft. The partnership extension is the third to be signed between QF and its international partner universities in the space of six months, following renewals with HEC Paris in November 2024 and Georgetown University in April 2025 – illustrating how QF's globally unique ecosystem of education continues to thrive. Her Excellency Sheikha Hind said, 'When Qatar Foundation began to create an entirely new model of learning three decades ago, we sought international partners in education to support us in our mission – partners who offered the highest quality of education in fields vital to the development of our nation and region, and whose values mirrored our own. 'Carnegie Mellon University was one such partner, bringing to Qatar its world-class academic programmes, its future-focused ethos of curiosity, and its commitment to providing opportunities for the acquisition of knowledge that stretch beyond its student body and into the wider community. Over 20 years on from its establishment, Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar's devotion to excellence, inquiry, and engagement has made it part of the knowledge fabric of our nation – nurturing agents of change, inspiring entrepreneurs, and driving innovation.' She added, 'As we adapt to, and seek to harness the benefits of, an increasingly AI-influenced world, Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar's expertise in this field is just one of the many ways in which it will continue to equip our next generation of national and regional leaders, and support the continuing development of Qatar and its people. Our pride in calling Carnegie Mellon University our partner in knowledge is matched by the anticipation of what we can achieve together in the years to come.' Farnam Jahanian said, 'The extraordinary partnership between Qatar Foundation and Carnegie Mellon University has flourished over the last 20 years. It is a partnership rooted in mutual trust and a shared commitment to leverage education as a platform for global engagement and a driver of economic opportunity and a better future for all. 'We are deeply grateful to the Qatar government and Qatar Foundation for their continued support of CMU-Q and for their leadership in advancing the vision of Education City as a hub for transformative opportunities. We are so proud of what we have accomplished together and the renewal of our partnership will allow us to continue this legacy of impact and strengthen the already strong partnership between our Pittsburgh campus and CMU-Q.' 'A hub of knowledge, innovation and discovery, Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar continues to be an important demonstration of CMU's global mission to prepare students to thrive in a rapidly changing world that is being reshaped by AI and other emerging technologies. We are excited to continue collaborating with Qatar Foundation and remain inspired and energized by the bright promise that our collective future holds,' Jahanian added. Carnegie Mellon University ranks in the world's top 25 universities by Times Higher Education, and also ranks in the top 10 for US. News and World Report rankings for Artificial Intelligence, business administration, computer science, and information systems, as well as second for undergraduate research and creative projects. Students at CMU-Q have identical graduation requirements to those at the home campus in Pittsburgh, US. This month, the CMU-Q community celebrated the graduation of 110 students in the Class of 2025. The education at CMU-Q emphasises analytics and leadership, and students are encouraged to reach beyond disciplines to find solutions to real-world problem sets. CMU-Q equips students with both the theoretical underpinnings and practical skills to become leaders in their fields. Artificial Intelligence was invented at Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) more than 50 years ago, and as a global institution, CMU is at the forefront of AI education and research. On the Qatar campus, AI is woven into each of the undergraduate programmes, and students are challenged to explore the impact and ethical implications of AI tools and technology. Francisco Marmolejo, president of Higher Education and Education Advisor, Qatar Foundation, said: 'Partnerships built on a shared belief in the power of knowledge have the potential to shape lives, dissolve barriers, and bring untold benefit both to individuals and societies – and our longstanding and immensely valued partnership with Carnegie Mellon University is testament to this. 'Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar, as with all our partner universities, was established through vision – our vision of an ecosystem of education unlike anything else in the world, dedicated to meeting the needs of Qatar, and the vision of Carnegie Mellon University, which recognised how partnering with Qatar Foundation opened up new paths of discovery, and the opportunity to help thousands of young people achieve their dreams. These visions aligned, and, over two decades, they have been realised.' 'We are delighted to extend our partnership with this world-renowned institution of learning for a further decade, and excited about the opportunities that lie ahead for us to advance knowledge, unlock solutions, and cultivate leaders, change-makers, and citizens of the world together,' Marmolejo added. Michael Trick, dean of Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar, said: 'The partnership between Carnegie Mellon and Qatar Foundation is based on the shared vision of the transformative impact of education. For more than 20 years, this campus has provided an exceptional education for students from Qatar and around the world who may not otherwise have had access. Thanks to the vision and generosity of Qatar Foundation, more than 1,400 students have completed their undergraduate education at CMU-Q. 'We are delighted to extend this partnership for another decade. In this age of rapid technological advancement, we will continue to guide our students to make decisions based on analysis, solutions based on compassion and consideration, and innovations based on a vision of a better world.' CMU-Q is one of seven international partner universities within QF's ecosystem of education, which stand alongside and integrate with QF's homegrown Hamad Bin Khalifa University. The uniqueness of the education model created by QF, and supported by its international partners in education, creates countless opportunities for academic and research collaboration, with students being able to cross-register for courses at different universities just yards from each other, gain real-world knowledge of science and technology development, participate in and lead community problems, and expand their horizons within an environment that fosters cultural and intellectual exchange. QF's ecosystem is also home to 13 schools, including specialised schools; research centers; a science and technology park within which students can incubate and accelerate their startups; policy centers; and community facilities and programmes that encourage lifelong learning and social interaction, and are open for everyone to experience and enjoy.
Qatar Tribune
12-05-2025
- General
- Qatar Tribune
Qatar National Library launches Murshidi mentorship programme
Tribune News Network Doha Qatar National Library announced the launch of the Murshidi Program, a mentorship initiative designed to support students and young professionals in achieving their academic and career goals. The program offers weekly sessions led by a dynamic group of experts, educators, professionals, and leaders from across Qatar, including distinguished alumni and faculty from Education City and diverse organizations across Qatar. Under the slogan 'Take your academic and career aspirations to the next level!', the program provides students and young professionals with personalized advice and insights on a wide range of disciplines, including medicine, engineering, information technology, finance and more. The program builds on the success of the Library's earlier Unlock Your Future initiative. 'The Murshidi Program reflects the Library'srole in supporting the youth of Qatar by equipping them with the tools, guidance and support they need to succeed and thrive in an ever-evolving academic and professional landscape,' said Maram Al Mahmoud, manager of the Children's and Young Adults' Section at Qatar National Library. 'Through this initiative, we are creating a space where students can directly leverage QNL's network of experienced mentors and experts to help them shape their individual academic and professional journeys with clarity and confidence.' For the month of May, the program will feature four sessions, held every Saturday from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, offering students the chance to interact directly with their mentor of choice. These sessions will begin with an introductory meeting and continue with one-on-one guidance tailored to each student's interests and goals. What distinguishes this program is its unique mentorship model, which connects young students and professionals with multiple mentors, each bringing distinct expertise, perspectives and experiences. These mentors not only provide personalized guidance and support but also draw on their networks to create connections and open doors to training, career advancement, and professional development. Professor Hilal Lashuel, Research Development and Innovation Advisor to HH Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, said: 'This program was born from a deep belief in the promising potential of our youth. Many of them already have the passion and capabilities; they simply need guidance, encouragement and opportunities to build their confidence. By surrounding them with committed mentors, we aim to help them unlock their full potential and empower them to contribute meaningfully to their communities and create a lasting impact on society.' Whether you're a high school student preparing for university or an undergraduate or new graduate seeking direction in your career path, the Murshidi Program is an excellent opportunity to build your future with the support of experts and professionals from across Qatar. For more details and to register, visit
Qatar Tribune
07-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Qatar Tribune
QF's Class of 2025 set to impact the world
Tribune News Network Doha Some graduates from Qatar Foundation partner universities have expressed their pride in obtaining their higher education from Education City, and they are all set to impact the world with their knowledge. Samah Sulyman, Palestinian-Lebanese: Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar (VCUarts Qatar) graduate in Fashion Design My experience at a university at Education City has been amazing. One of the qualities I gained from attending VCUarts Qatar is leadership. It helped me speak for myself and become a better person – a better speaker, a better leader, and a more creative individual. I believe leaders are not just practical people; they're also creative people. When I learned there was a fashion programme here, I knew it was for me – I knew I would go to Education City and study at VCUarts Qatar. After I graduate, I hope to gain more experience and eventually start my own business. At QF, I found the freedom to create and the space to turn my passion for design into purpose – one stitch, one layer at a time. Al Dana Al Disi, JordancTypeface:> Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar (CMU-Q) graduate in Biological Sciences I chose CMU-Q because I had heard so much about it, and about QF and the supportive community that I would find – and it proved all those expectations right. I always felt supported and part of a community. And because the classes are small, we formed strong bonds with each other and our faculty. The biggest thing is the wealth of opportunities available. I was able to engage in research as an undergraduate in ways I wouldn't have been able to elsewhere. When I was looking at my options, especially CMU-Q and QF, it was clear that it was a very supportive environment, and I knew my values aligned with theirs. I could already see the opportunities for self-growth. To me, the highlight is not just the training or the opportunities, but the open-mindedness I developed that allowed me to launch myself into those opportunities. As a biologist, I've ventured beyond the lab space into unimaginable experiences. Through the opportunities at QF, I didn't just gain molecular insight but also interdisciplinary curiosity. Ahamed Akmal Lebbe, Sri LankacTypeface:> Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar (WCM-Q) graduate I always wanted to study medicine, and WCM-Q was the perfect combination. It was right at home, and it had a really great reputation. I'm really happy I made that decision. The support that the faculty give to the students is incredible, and we get a lot of opportunities we wouldn't get elsewhere. We can do research in the US, and that experience is really helpful in developing your research skills. Among students, there's a big focus on improving your communication skills. It takes a lot to be a good doctor – to know what your patient is thinking before they even ask. Leadership, analytical, and problem-solving skills are all really important, and we're encouraged to grow in all those areas. I want to be a gastroenterologist. I'm going to go into internal medicine. After graduating, I'll be going to the US to do my residency, which takes three years. After six years at QF, it's the community that stands out most. I'm grateful to have shared this journey with such an incredible group of people. Ghanim R. Al Kubaisi, Qatar: Georgetown University in Qatar (GU-Q) graduate in International Politics, with a minor in History and a certificate in Media and Politics I chose GU-Q because I felt it was a melting pot of cultures, and it's very diverse. I believe that diversity is key to broadening our perspectives and becoming better learners — so I thought GU-Q was the perfect environment for me. GU-Q helped me sharpen my pre-existing skills because it gave me the platform to exercise and refine them through various opportunities. GU-Q is very supportive of students who express themselves freely, which gave us more confidence. The nature of the environment itself allowed me to grow both personally and academically. I'm going into a master's programme in Negotiation and Conflict Resolution, which should take one to two years. After that, I'm still figuring things out — possibly between academia and diplomacy. Maybe both. At QF, I found that diversity opens minds and grants perspective. With perspective you can bridge different worlds. Khalid Alyafei, Qatar: HEC Paris, Doha, Executive MBA graduate and physician at Sidra Medicine I chose HEC Paris because it's a well-known business university, and people from all over the world apply to it. I had been thinking about it for a few years before signing up, but then I decided to go for it. In the past, I took leadership courses, but I felt HEC Paris would help me go further. I wanted to strengthen my skills – financially, economically, and in leading teams. That's why I enrolled. We had excellent professors who discussed current market issues, why they're happening, and what's predicted. The networking was also valuable. There were doctors, administrators, and professionals from different disciplines and operations. It was great to meet people from various sectors, and I saw this as a strong opportunity for business development, networking, and enhancing my leadership skills. My biggest takeaway was learning how to be an authentic leader. Sometimes there's a lot of politics and things beyond your control. But ethically, you want to do what's best for the organisation or society before thinking of yourself. I learned how to face those challenges and remain authentic. QF isn't just about education – it's where future leaders find purpose, drive innovation, and create change. Sashreek Garg, India: Northwestern University in Qatar graduate in Journalism, Media, and Integrated Marketing Communications The power to talk about the Global South through the means that we have is so important, because most of the universities that are highly ranked in media are in the Global North. So having a university in Qatar that focuses on the Global South is very unique. I chose Northwestern because its journalism school is ranked as one of the best. I also chose Qatar as a location because I knew my experience would be much more unique than most people's. I thought studying in the Middle East, with a unique perspective, would set me apart from others. Having the opportunity to talk to so many different people from diverse backgrounds is very unique. This diversity makes me feel like I've learned so much more about the world – and about human experiences. My education at Northwestern Qatar taught me to look beyond binaries, to question who tells the story, who is left unheard, and to seek truth not in sides, but in nuance. Salwa Almulla, QatarcTypeface:> Hamad Bin Khalifa University PhD graduate in Islamic Finance and Economy From the first day I joined HBKU, I felt different. When I finish work, I come to study. But once I arrive at university, I feel relaxed. Professors teach us how to think outside the box, how to critically analyse, and how to read between the lines. As a PhD student, I've gained many skills. I see and read things differently. I've been a PhD student for five years, and I'm currently working full-time at the same time. It hasn't always been easy. I would like to become a professor in the future while continuing my current job. I'm also working as a writer for a newspaper. My academic journey has significantly influenced my writing – I write in a different way. Whatever we learn, we reflect it in our work and writing. My perspective has evolved, especially in areas like finance and sustainability. Graduation is just the beginning – a commitment to use my knowledge and passion to uplift the nation, defy limits, and serve humanity. Lolwa Al Kaabi, QatarcTypeface:Italic> Texas A&M University at Qatar (TAMUQ) graduate in Electrical and Computer Engineering TAMUQ offers a diverse environment. We had classmates representing different nationalities and backgrounds. It was a great experience engaging with people from all over the world. A highlight during my time at TAMUQ was going to College Station in Texas, where we presented our senior design project. Experiencing the main campus firsthand was incredible – it offered a completely different perspective and was a memorable part of my academic journey. My sister, Moza, was also enrolled in the same university; we tried to take the same courses and stay together. After graduation, my next step is to pursue a master's degree and, eventually, a PhD. QF has been a journey of growth, challenges, and lifelong connections that I will always cherish.
