Latest news with #HBKU
Qatar Tribune
11-05-2025
- Business
- Qatar Tribune
Sheikha Hind attends HBKU graduation ceremony
Tribune News Network Doha Her Excellency Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, vice-chairperson and CEO of Qatar Foundation (QF), and chairperson of Hamad Bin Khalifa University's (HBKU) Board of Trustees, saw HBKU commemorate its Class of 2025 on Sunday. Honouring the collective and individual achievements of close to 300 students, this year's graduation ceremony marked a significant milestone for HBKU and Qatar's investment in higher education. Speaker of the Shura Council His Excellency Hassan bin Abdullah Al Ghanim also joined the proceedings at the Qatar National Convention Centre, along with government officials, HBKU's senior leadership, the colleges' deans, university faculty and staff, as well as the graduates' families and close friends. HBKU's Class of 2025 consists of 293 students, including 73 Qataris, who graduated from 35 academic programmes, receiving PhD, Juris Doctor, master's, and bachelor's degrees taught at HBKU's College of Islamic Studies (CIS), College of Humanities and Social Sciences, College of Science and Engineering (CSE), College of Law, College of Health and Life Sciences, and College of Public Policy. In his remarks, Dr. Ahmad M. Hasnah, HBKU president, reflected on the importance of values and ethics in navigating today's complex global challenges. He affirmed that ethical principles are the foundation for a meaningful life and impactful work. Addressing the graduates, he encouraged them to let wisdom guide their decisions, define success on their own terms without falling into the trap of comparison, and embrace a lifelong pursuit of knowledge that expands their horizons through conventional and creative means. This year's keynote was delivered by His Excellency Dr. Abdulaziz bin Nasser Al Khalifa, president of the Civil Service and Government Development Bureau, and secretary-general of the National Planning Council. He said, 'Today's ceremony is not only to celebrate the graduation of the largest cohort the university has seen since its establishment, but also your assumption of the scientific responsibility that requires you to mature ideas and believe in enlightening the mind and using it to respond to the shifts and fluctuations of time. 'Since its establishment in 2010, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, which bears a name that is dear to our hearts, has never been a mere academic institution, but rather an ambitious vision to be a platform to prepare change-makers.' In his address, student speaker, Abdulaziz Abdullah Al Obaidli, particularly emphasised the community and personal impact of their academic journey, saying: 'Today marks the beginning of a lifelong commitment to responsibility and progress. Graduation is not a final destination, but rather a true starting point toward shaping the future.' 'Hamad Bin Khalifa University is more than a hub for education - it is a nurturing home and fertile ground where students' dreams flourish,' he added. 'It is a space for forming lifelong friendships in which students are encouraged to not only seek answers, but to pursue the questions that shape their understanding and drive them to become better individuals.' The celebration also featured the HBKU Excellence Awards, which highlighted especially remarkable achievements of HBKU faculty from the past year. Her Excellency Sheikha Hind and Dr. Hasnah presented awards in three categories: the Research Excellence Award was given to Dr. Gordon McKay, College of Science and Engineering, and Dr. Ilias Bantekas, College of Law, for outstanding research recognised by the wider academic community; the Teaching Excellence Award was received by Dr. Tareq Al Ansari, College of Science and Engineering, honouring exceptional knowledge-transfer and pedagogy; and the Service Excellence Award was given to Dr. Mohammed Ghaly, College of Islamic Studies, celebrating his extraordinary service to the university community. Noting the Awards' deeper significance, Dr. Ala Al Fuqaha, acting provost and associate provost for Teaching and Learning, said: 'These awardees demonstrate how HBKU attracts and enables faculty that pursue and achieve genuine impact in their disciplines. They go above and beyond to advance their fields, empower students' academic journeys, and ultimately serve their communities, at home and abroad.' Commenting on HBKU's growing alumni community, Dr. Maryam Hamad Al Mannai, vice-president for Student Affairs, said: 'Our Office of Student Affairs nurtures a diverse and enriching academic environment that facilitates active engagement and continuous growth among its students. Our alumni are outstanding individuals who carry an appreciation of service to their communities and lifelong personal development, which makes them ambassadors for our university and their own societies.'
Zawya
04-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
HBKU professor named World Trade Organization Chair
Doha: Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) has been granted a World Trade Organization (WTO) Chair, with the College of Law's Dr. Georgios Dimitropoulos, Professor of Law and Associate Dean for Research, named as chairholder. Established to enhance knowledge and understanding of the international trading system through research, policy outreach, and teaching, the WTO Chairs Programme (WCP) supports academic institutions working to build expertise in trade-related areas. The WTO's selection of Dr. Dimitropoulos is a significant achievement for Qatar and HBKU, marking a milestone in the region's contribution to global trade discussions. In particular, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry of the State of Qatar, through its Geneva office, was instrumental in supporting the initiative. As WTO Chair, Dr. Dimitropoulos will lead programs and activities that bridge academic research and policymaking. The Chair will focus on issues that pertain to trade and investment in the digital economy with an emphasis on emerging economies and Least Developed Countries (LDCs). Following the announcement of the WTO Chair, Dr. Ala Al-Fuqaha, Acting Provost and Associate Provost for Teaching and Learning, HBKU, stated: 'I would like to congratulate Dr. Georgios Dimitropoulos for being appointed WTO Chair. Focusing on issues that pertain to the digital economy, the Chair examines the evolving role of industrial and digital policies in achieving sustainable development, with a focus on bridging digital divides in the Global South, particularly in the Western Asia and MENA regions.' 'Dr. Dimitropoulos' research will contribute to a deeper understanding of the interplay between global trade frameworks and digital development while fostering collaboration between emerging economies and LDCs,' added Dr. Ala Al-Fuqaha. 'His work aligns with HBKU's commitment to fostering impactful research and teaching, as well as supporting initiatives that address pressing global challenges.' Remarking on the importance of the WTO Chair, Susan L Karamanian, Dean, College of Law, observed: 'Qatar is one of the world's leading trading hubs, linking Asia and Africa with Europe and beyond. Thus, it is fitting that one of the prestigious WTO Chairs be housed at a university in Qatar. It is further appropriate that Dr. Dimitropoulos is WTO chairholder, given his extensive research on contemporary trade issues, his broad network of researchers around the world, and his interdisciplinary approach that blends trade, international relations, and policy. We are grateful to the WTO, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, and the leadership of HBKU for their support and are especially proud of Professor Dimitropoulos.' The Director of the State of Qatar to the WTO, Ahmed Al-Sulaiti, added: 'I am proud to witness the recognition of Qatar's commitment to advancing knowledge and innovation in the global trading system through this prestigious initiative. The selection of our proposal under the WTO Chairs Program underscores Qatar's forward-looking vision in addressing critical challenges such as digital transformation, sustainability, and national security. 'By collaborating with Hamad Bin Khalifa University and leveraging support from the Qatar Research, Development, and Innovation Council, we are not only contributing to the global discourse on trade and development but also positioning Qatar as a leader in shaping the future of industrial policy in a digital age,' he added. 'This initiative aligns with Qatar's National Development Strategy 2024-2030, which places great emphasis on collaboration with international organizations and investing in human capital. It will not only enrich our academic institutions and policymakers but also play a pivotal role in preparing and empowering future generations of Qatari international lawyers and diplomats, equipping them with the expertise and tools to navigate the evolving complexities of the global trading environment.' 'I am deeply honored to be appointed as a WTO Chair,' said Dr. Dimitropoulos. 'This is also an institutional milestone. HBKU and the College of Law have become a global hub for research in international economic and digital law. This recognition and support will allow us to further spearhead our work in these areas. I am grateful to everyone who is involved. The WTO and HBKU leadership, as well as Her Excellency Dr. Hend Al Muftah, Qatar's Permanent Representative to the UN Office in Geneva, and Ahmed Al-Sulaiti, the Director of the Office of the State of Qatar to the World Trade Organization. I look forward to working with the WTO, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry and the Mission, and all fellow WTO chairholders.' Dr. Dimitropoulos' research focuses on redefining the boundaries of domestic and international law, with particular emphasis on economic sovereignty and the impact of digital technologies on traditional legal models. About Hamad Bin Khalifa University Innovating Today, Shaping Tomorrow Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), a member of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science, and Community Development (QF), is a leading, innovation-centric university committed to advancing education and research to address critical challenges facing Qatar and beyond. HBKU develops multidisciplinary academic programs and national research capabilities that drive collaboration with leading global institutions. The university is dedicated to equipping future leaders with an entrepreneurial mindset and advancing innovative solutions that create a positive global impact. For more information about HBKU, its colleges, research institutes, and initiatives, please visit To stay up to date on our social media activities, follow our accounts on: LinkedIn, Instagram, X, and Facebook. For any media inquiries, please contact: media@ About the College of Law With an international standing for quality and innovation in teaching and research, HBKU's College of Law has become one of the most prestigious law schools in the Middle East today. Situated at a global crossroad of culture, business, and geopolitics, the college represents a hub for promoting an understanding of the importance of the rule of law across the world. The College builds national and regional capacities with global relevance by preparing leaders to manage multi-faceted relationships across a diversity of international legal systems. These include civil law, common law, and Shari'a, all informing Qatari law and governing transactions across the region and elsewhere in the world. For more information about HBKU's College of Law, visit
Zawya
22-04-2025
- Politics
- Zawya
HBKU invites global academics and experts for conference on rebuilding higher education in Gaza
Doha - Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) convened international leaders in education, international diplomacy, and development, as well as senior figures from Palestinian academia for the Conference on Rebuilding Higher Education in Gaza. Organized in collaboration with Education Above All, the Islamic University of Gaza, University of Fort Hare, University of Johannesburg, and University of Glasgow, the event builds on the expertise of the College of Public Policy's Professor Sultan Barakat and is a follow up to a previous meeting that took place in Glasgow in December 2024. The conference addressed the urgent need to reconstruct Gaza's higher education sector in the wake of devastating conflict. Professor Francisco J. Marmolejo, President of Higher Education, Qatar Foundation, along with Professor Nader Jawad Alnemra, Deputy President of the Islamic University of Gaza; Dr. David Duncan, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the University of Glasgow; and Professor Sakhela Buhlungu, Vice Chancellor of the University of Fort Hare, welcomed the attendees and underlined the conference's timeliness and importance. HE Ambassador Nassir Abdulaziz Al Nasser, President, United Nations General Assembly 66th Session, and former UN High Representative for the Alliance of Civilizations, kicked off proceedings with a keynote address that outlined Qatar's commitment to education both nationally and internationally and helped participants reflect on the global significance of rebuilding academic institutions, especially in times of conflict. In his opening remarks, Professor Sultan Barakat, CPP, noted: 'We are here to affirm a principle: that education is a right, not a privilege; that universities are sacred spaces for knowledge, identity, and hope; and that Palestinian higher education - rooted in struggle, dignity, and history - is central to all forms of reconstruction and development.' Participants also included distinguished academics from the Universities of Oxford, Cambridge, Durham, Leeds, University College London, Imperial College, Edinburgh, Ulster, King's College, Harvard, York, Toronto, Dublin, Bard College, Oslo, Lille and other institutions from across the world. They gathered in workshops and panel discussions to explore the immediate and long-term needs in rebuilding Gaza's higher education sector, including how education institutions can be rebuilt and made more resilient, as well as their central role in post-conflict rebuilding throughout Gaza. A powerful plenary session on the first day highlighted the scale of destruction inflicted on Gaza's higher education sector. University leaders from Al-Azhar University, Al-Quds Open University, An-Najah University, Al-Aqsa University, Birzeit University, Palestine University, Gaza University, and the Palestinian Ministry of Education shared first-hand accounts of the devastation of the conflict. The Conference is the latest example of HBKU's ongoing support for Palestine's academic sector, which comprises engagement in local and international discussions as well as robust academic research. About Hamad Bin Khalifa University Innovating Today, Shaping Tomorrow Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), a member of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science, and Community Development (QF), is a leading, innovation-centric university committed to advancing education and research to address critical challenges facing Qatar and beyond. HBKU develops multidisciplinary academic programs and national research capabilities that drive collaboration with leading global institutions. The university is dedicated to equipping future leaders with an entrepreneurial mindset and advancing innovative solutions that create a positive global impact. For more information about HBKU, its colleges, research institutes, and initiatives, please visit To stay up to date on our social media activities, follow our accounts on: LinkedIn, Instagram, X, and Facebook. For any media inquiries, please contact: media@ About the College of Public Policy The College of Public Policy (CPP) accomplishes HBKU's priority to contribute to effective policy development, evaluation, and dialogue in support of Qatar National Vision 2030. HBKU's CPP is one of the leading public policy schools and knowledge hubs regionally and globally. It provides a uniquely situated venue for public conversation in Qatar, and a center for teaching and researching responses to policy questions of local and global relevance. Highly dynamic and open to novel ideas and experimentation, the CPP recruits the world's best faculty, builds research capacity, educates future leaders who engage with their communities, and acts as a bridge for policy innovations that positively contribute to global public good. For more information about HBKU's CPP, visit
Zawya
16-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
HBKU co-hosts the 14th Materials Science and Engineering Symposium 2025
Doha – Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) partnered with Qatar University (QU) and Texas A&M University at Qatar (TAMUQ) to organize the Annual Materials Science and Engineering Symposium (MSES-2025) with generous support from Qatar Petrochemical Company (QAPCO). Taking place on April 14, the Symposium brought together over 190 participants, including national and international experts from academia, research institutes, industry, government entities, as well as graduate and undergraduate students, for a day of discussions centered on the recent technological advancement in the development and applications of resilient and sustainable materials. Held under the theme "Advancing Resilient and Sustainable Materials through Technological Innovation" the event also highlighted materials technologies that contribute to economic diversification in alignment with the third Qatar National Development Strategy. This edition of the Symposium featured keynote and invited presentations, industry showcases, undergraduate and graduate research presentations, and a panel discussion on synergizing collaboration among all stakeholders to advance the field of sustainable and resilient materials. The Symposium began with introductory remarks delivered by Dr. Eyad Masad, Vice President for Research, HBKU, Professor Aiman Erbad, Vice President of Research and Graduate Studies, QU, and Dr. Patrick Linke, Executive Associate Dean, TAMUQ. These were followed by keynote presentations, innovation challenges for undergraduate and postgraduate researchers, a technology showcase of relevant innovations by Qatari companies, and a panel discussion. The Symposium concluded with an open discussion among participants, closing expert remarks, and an award ceremony. Commenting on the Symposium, Dr. Mounir Hamdi, Dean, CSE, remarked: 'For the past 15 years, this event has consistently attracted high-caliber academics, students, and industry professionals to discuss topics vital to the advancement of the research and development in the areas of material science and sustainability in the State of Qatar and beyond. This was a day filled with insightful discussions and overviews of innovative projects highlighting the synergy between resilience and sustainability. We're grateful to our colleagues at QU and TAMUQ for their support in co-organizing and delivering this Symposium.' HBKU looks forward to organizing and hosting future editions of the Annual Materials Science and Engineering Symposium. About Hamad Bin Khalifa University Innovating Today, Shaping Tomorrow. Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), a member of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science, and Community Development (QF), was founded in 2010 as a research-intensive university that acts as a catalyst for transformative change in Qatar and the region while having global impact. Located in Education City, HBKU is committed to building and cultivating human capacity through an enriching academic experience, innovative ecosystem, and unique partnerships. HBKU delivers multidisciplinary undergraduate and graduate programs through its colleges, and provides opportunities for research and scholarship through its institutes and centers. For more information about HBKU, visit About the College of Science and Engineering One of the longest established colleges at HBKU, the College of Science and Engineering (CSE) graduates the highest number of students and offers the largest portfolio of degree programs within the University. HBKU's CSE is home to the supplementary Division of Engineering Management and Decision Sciences, Division of Sustainable Development, and the Division of Information and Computing Technology, which together form a unique, multidisciplinary education and research environment of the highest caliber. For more information about HBKU's CSE, visit
Zawya
14-04-2025
- Health
- Zawya
Her Highness Sheikha Moza attends launch of HBKU's AutismTech Conference
Doha - Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation (QF), today attended Hamad Bin Khalifa University's (HBKU) launch of the AutismTech Conference, dedicated to positively impacting the lives of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Taking place from April 14 to 16, the event has been co-designed with partners from Qatar, including the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH), Sidra Medicine, Qatar University (QU), Mada Assistive Technology Center, as well as American institutions: Autism Speaks, and the Autism Science Foundation. AutismTech convenes global leaders in autism research and related fields, including artificial intelligence (AI), computing technologies, and other emerging disciplines, for discussions on accelerating the development, integration, and implementation of innovative solutions that support individuals with ASD, their carers, and families. Complementing Autism Awareness Month, the conference also showcases how pioneering research, and emerging technologies can revolutionize learning outcomes, therapy approaches, and social integration for individuals with autism locally and globally. As part of Qatar Foundation's growing commitment to support autism research, Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, and Her Excellency Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, Vice Chairperson and CEO of Qatar Foundation, held a high-level meeting with a group of autism experts from the United States. They discussed strategic cooperation to enhance global awareness of the urgent need to increase investment in the field of autism, address the unmet needs of adults with autism, and develop comprehensive services at the national level. In addition, they discussed enacting comprehensive legislation to promote inclusivity in the education, healthcare, and community sectors. Commenting on the importance of this new platform, Dr. Ahmad M. Hasnah, President, HBKU, said: 'AutismTech reinforces the pivotal role Qatar plays in advancing autism awareness globally, leaning on the strong advocacy of Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser. This is also reflected in the diversity of international partners that have contributed to the planning and delivery of this important conference. AutismTech particularly recognizes the importance of engaging communities with individuals with ASD and their families, both in Qatar and internationally. Doing so not only strengthens our country's support programs but also reinforces Qatar's status as a global hub for community-focused research and knowledge exchange in the field of ASD.' The conference also includes panel discussions and lectures across key topics in ASD including diagnosis, therapy, education, community engagement, and others. Each session provides a platform for advocates, policymakers, healthcare professionals and more, to highlight cutting-edge solutions and exchange knowledge, positioning AutismTech and Qatar as a central hub for thought leaders and global experts in the field of ASD. In addition to the partner organizations, AutismTech is supported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), Weill Cornell Medicine - Qatar, Qatar Research, Development and Innovation (QRDI) Council, Qatar Petrochemical Company (QAPCO), the Shafallah Center for Persons with Disabilities, and Salam International Investment Limited. HBKU's advocacy for ASD education, research, and outreach extends beyond AutismTech. The university's faculty and researchers are recognized as leading experts in the identification of autism-risk genes and the exploration of the factors influencing the development of ASD. Their work also includes screening for potential drug treatments and examining regulatory frameworks and policies that benefit individuals and families. About Hamad Bin Khalifa University Innovating Today, Shaping Tomorrow Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), a member of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science, and Community Development (QF), is a leading, innovation-centric university committed to advancing education and research to address critical challenges facing Qatar and beyond. HBKU develops multidisciplinary academic programs and national research capabilities that drive collaboration with leading global institutions. The university is dedicated to equipping future leaders with an entrepreneurial mindset and advancing innovative solutions that create a positive global impact. For more information about HBKU, its colleges, research institutes, and initiatives, please visit To stay up to date on our social media activities, follow our accounts on: LinkedIn, Instagram, X, and Facebook. For any media inquiries, please contact: media@ About the College of Science and Engineering One of the longest established colleges at HBKU, the College of Science and Engineering (CSE) graduates the highest number of students and offers the largest portfolio of degree programs within the University. HBKU's CSE is home to the supplementary Division of Engineering Management and Decision Sciences, Division of Sustainable Development, and the Division of Information and Computing Technology, which together form a unique, multidisciplinary education and research environment of the highest caliber. For more information about HBKU's CSE, visit About the Qatar Biomedical Research Institute HBKU's Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI) is a pioneering, national research institute, striving to transform healthcare and personalized medicine through translational research, innovation in prevention, diagnosis, as well as treatment of diseases. In doing so, QBRI helps to improve the effectiveness of healthcare and quality of life, particularly for populations in Qatar and the region, while contributing to research of global relevance. For more information about HBKU's QBRI, visit
