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Qatar Tribune
10-05-2025
- Business
- Qatar Tribune
GU-Q's 20th anniv: Dean Safwan Masri looks ahead on expanding global impact and regional relevance
Hanane Djoua Doha As Georgetown University in Qatar (GU-Q) celebrates its 20th anniversary, Dean Safwan Masri reflects on a journey marked by academic excellence, deep regional engagement, and a forward-looking vision that positions the institution at the nexus of global scholarship and local impact. In an exclusive interview with Qatar Tribune, Dean Masri underscored how GU-Q has evolved from its initial offerings into a dynamic academic institution, grounded in the Georgetown tradition while being responsive to the shifting needs of Qatar and the broader region. 'Over the past decade, Georgetown University in Qatar has grown in both depth and breadth,' said Masri. 'Our academic offerings have remained anchored in Georgetown's tradition of excellence in international affairs, while becoming more interdisciplinary and responsive to the needs of our region.' Expanding Academic Horizons Since launching its Bachelor of Science in Foreign Service (BSFS) degree in 2005, GU-Q has significantly diversified its programmes. Originally offering majors in Culture and Politics and International Politics, along with a Minor in Arabic and a Certificate in American Studies, the university has since introduced majors in International Economics and International History, and a Certificate in Arab and Regional Studies. 'We created a Certificate in Media and Politics with Northwestern Qatar a decade ago and recently launched a joint minor in Africana Studies,' Masri noted. 'We also introduced minors in Indian Ocean Studies and French, and a joint Certificate in Energy Studies with CMU-Q and TAMU-Q, with more programmes to come.' These academic developments reflect GU-Q's commitment to providing a globally relevant, comprehensive education that equips students with both intellectual rigor and real-world applicability. Scholarship with Purpose The university's growing portfolio of impactful research is another point of pride. 'I'm especially proud of the rise in impactful scholarship produced by our faculty—ranging from books and journal articles to policy-relevant research that speaks to global and regional issues,' Masri said. This academic output is matched by the university's efforts to bridge theory and practice. Experiential learning opportunities, such as the Community Engagement and Academic Internship programmes, allow students to confront real-world challenges. 'Our Innovation Lab is a great example,' Masri said. 'It transforms traditional academic breaks into immersive, hands-on career development experiences. This evolution reflects our mission to develop students who are not only academically strong but also socially conscious and globally minded.' A Synergy, Not a Balancing Act Masri rejected the notion that GU-Q must choose between maintaining global standards and serving local priorities. 'Maintaining Georgetown's global academic standards while contributing to Qatar's development is not a balancing act—it's a synergy,' he emphasised. He pointed to GU-Q's role in aligning with Qatar National Vision, particularly through research and partnerships that speak to local and regional needs. From public policy and migration to the legacy of the FIFA World Cup, GU-Q faculty and students are engaged in scholarship that matters. Strategic collaborations, such as the one with Education Above All, further highlight the university's commitment to accessibility and social impact. Vision for the Future Looking ahead, Masri envisions GU-Q building on its current momentum to deepen its contributions to the region and the world. 'One of my aspirations is to strengthen our research ecosystem further and create more interdisciplinary spaces where faculty and students can explore the challenges of our time,' he said. 'Another is to deepen our engagement with the Global South, ensuring that our students see themselves as part of global conversations that matter.' He emphasised GU-Q's unique positioning 'at the intersection of global scholarship and regional relevance,' calling for a continued focus on cultivating ethical leaders and critical thinkers who are prepared to shape their communities and the broader world. A Community of Purpose For Dean Masri, the 20-year milestone is not only institutional—it is also deeply personal. 'To lead an institution like GU-Q—where students, faculty, and staff are genuinely committed to the pursuit of knowledge and service—has been one of the greatest honors of my career,' he said. 'What I'm most proud of is the community we've built. Our graduates are shaping policy, leading organizations, and giving back to their communities in meaningful ways. We have become a home for dialogue, inquiry, and innovation.' As GU-Q marks two decades of transformative education, the institution stands as a testament to what is possible when global excellence meets local commitment. And if Dean Masri's vision is any indication, the next chapter promises even greater impact—rooted in purpose, driven by values, and inspired by the enduring Georgetown mission of service to others.
Qatar Tribune
06-05-2025
- Health
- Qatar Tribune
HMC showcases world-class dermatology services in ‘Your Health, Our Priority' drive
Hanane Djoua Doha As part of its ongoing Your Health, Our Priority campaign, Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) has spotlighted its Dermatology and Venereology Department — a regional hub of excellence in skin health that continues to gain global recognition for innovation, research, and specialised care. HMC's Dermatology Department delivers high-quality, personalised treatment for patients of all ages and conditions — ranging from eczema, psoriasis, vitiligo, and alopecia to skin cancer, rare genetic disorders, and complex autoimmune diseases. The department also stands at the forefront of technological advancement and multidisciplinary research in dermatology. 'Our dermatology services reflect HMC's broader commitment to delivering specialised, world-class healthcare to the community of Qatar,' said Prof Martin Steinhoff, chairman of HMC's Dermatology and Venereology Department. Ranked among the top two percent of researchers worldwide by Stanford University, Prof Steinhoff emphasised the department's capacity to address both common and rare skin disorders with the most updated and tailored therapies. In an interview with Qatar Tribune, Prof Steinhoff said, 'Our department is the largest of its kind in Qatar and among the most advanced in the region. With over 14 sub-specialty clinics, we see more than 300 patients a day and cover the full spectrum of dermatologic services — from medical and surgical dermatology to advanced therapies for genetic and autoimmune skin diseases.' Among the key services offered are: • Biologic and immunomodulatory therapies for inflammatory skin diseases; • Advanced laser treatments for pigmentation, scarring, and rosacea; • Dermato-surgery for skin biopsies and cancer excisions; • Hair and scalp clinics for alopecia and related disorders; • Light-based therapies for conditions such as cutaneous T-cell lymphoma; • Paediatric and geriatric dermatology clinics — the latter being one of the first worldwide; • Genetic dermatology for rare genodermatoses and haemangiomas; • Sclerotherapy and foam sclerotherapy for varicose and spider veins. 'The integration of real-time skin imaging, dermoscopy, and ultrasound in our diagnostics enables earlier, more precise detection of life-threatening conditions like melanoma and scleroderma,' Dr Steinhoff noted, adding that emergency care for severe skin conditions such as Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, drug allergies, and erythroderma is also part of their specialty. Commenting on the department's international vision, he shared, 'We are now developing aesthetic dermatology as a future service and are consistently adopting the latest minimally invasive treatments and biologic medications. Our mission is to bring the same level of care that patients would receive in leading centres like New York or Berlin — right here in Qatar.' Prof Steinhoff also revealed that the Dermatology Department offers an American-accredited residency program, ensuring that Qatari-trained dermatologists receive an education aligned with international standards. 'From day one, our residents follow a rigorous curriculum equivalent to what they would experience in the US or Germany. We host educational workshops, collaborate with global experts, and constantly bring international knowledge into Qatar,' he said. Dr Ayda Al Hammadi, senior consultant at the department, echoed this vision, saying, 'Our goal is not only to treat but to set new global standards in dermatological care.' Dr Sara Al Khawaga, specialist in dermatology, emphasised the blend of compassionate care and scientific progress, noting, 'We ensure every patient receives the most effective, evidence-based treatment.' Dr Aysha Al Malki, director of the Dermatology Residency Programme, said: 'Our strength lies in combining research, education, and clinical excellence. Through this, we continue to build a future-ready, world-class dermatology service in Qatar.'
