Latest news with #HindbintHamadAlThani
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.'
Qatar Tribune
06-05-2025
- Business
- Qatar Tribune
Sheikha Moza attends QF's 2025 Convocation ceremony
DOHA: Chairperson of Qatar Foundation Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser has attended the 2025 Convocation ceremony, where over 1,000 students from across Qatar Foundation's higher education ecosystem were celebrated for their achievements – and stepped into their future. Vice Chairperson and CEO of Qatar Foundation HE Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani was also in attendance at the milestone ceremony in the lives of graduates and the story of Qatar Foundation (QF), held at Qatar National Convention Centre, together with ministers and dignitaries, university deans and faculty members, and families of the members of QF's Class of 2025. Speaking at the event, Sheikha Mozasaid: 'Congratulations to our graduates and your families. Let this day be, not the end of your studies, but the beginning of your journey of lifelong learning. While a degree is important in securing financial and job security, always remaining open to new ideas and knowledge is essential for spiritual and emotional wellbeing, enabling us to overcome prejudice and preconceptions.' 2025 marks QF's 30th anniversary – three decades of impact, innovation, and opportunity in education, science and research, and community development, made possible through QF's belief in the power of knowledge and its commitment to contributing to the human and social advancement of Qatar, the region, and the world. In that time, more than 11,000 students have graduated from universities at QF, with its alumni going on to make their mark nationally and internationally as leaders, innovators, humanitarians, and drivers of positive change. Minister of Education and Higher Education HELolwah bint Rashid bin Mohammed Al Khaterwho attended the Convocation ceremony, said: 'As we celebrate the graduates of Qatar Foundation, we also pause to reflect on a legacy that extends far beyond the classroom. 'For three decades, QF has redefined the role of education – not as a destination, but as a continuous journey toward inquiry, purpose, and innovation. It is a model rooted in our national values, yet open to the world; one that equips learners to lead with insight and integrity. 'The Ministry of Education and Higher Education takes pride in supporting this vision – one that continues to shape Qatar's path toward a future that is inclusive, enlightened, and grounded in knowledge.' The graduates of the Class of 2025 – each of whom, during the ceremony, walked through the Door to the Future, a Convocation tradition symbolizing the start of the next phase of their life's journey – span 74 nationalities, with 61 per cent being female and 39 per cent being Qatari nationals. 'At QF, we are very proud of the dedicated work done by graduating students,' said Francisco Marmolejo, President of Higher Education and Education Advisor, QF. 'We are confident that they received top, world-class education, and that they nurtured a strong sense of professionalism, ethics, and community service at Qatar Foundation. This year's graduating class is especially important for us, because this is one of the most impactful ways to continue celebrating 30 years of remarkable achievements of Qatar Foundation. 'Our Convocation is much more than just a ceremony – not even the end of a journey for our graduating class, but rather an opportunity to recognize the hard work of students, to appreciate the support of their families, and to celebrate new beginnings.' The keynote speaker at the 2025 Convocation ceremony was entrepreneur Will Ahmed, Founder and CEO of health wearable company WHOOP, who said: 'Education City is a special place that brings together students from all over the world. It's an honour to celebrate the graduates.' Reflecting on the opportunity to speak to the graduating class, he said: 'It's very meaningful. The diversity in this class isn't just about geography or culture – it's about mindset, ambition, and the unique paths these students are on. They represent the next generation of leaders in fields ranging from science and medicine to policy, design, and beyond. 'When I graduated from college, I was deeply committed to building a company, but I also faced a lot of skepticism even from people close to me. Graduation can be daunting. It's the beginning of a new chapter, and it's easy to feel pressure to meet expectations set by others. My goal is to help these graduates feel empowered to pursue their dreams and trust their own convictions. 'I hope they leave feeling confident in their ability to build – whether it's a company, a community, or a life that reflects their values. You don't need to have every step mapped out. What you do need is conviction, curiosity, and the courage to begin.' During the ceremony, 16 members of the Class of 2025 received the QF Excellence Award, which celebrates students who have gone above and beyond throughout their educational journey at QF. This year, over 100 applications were submitted, with a review committee representing every university within QF overseeing the selection process. Dr Samah Gamar, Director, Academic Affairs, QF, said: "We designed the QF Excellence Award to capture the full arc of the student experience at Education City – from intellectual rigor and interdisciplinary thinking to social responsibility and career readiness. 'And this year's awardees represent the very best of what QF's multiversity ecosystem offers – students who transcend disciplinary boundaries and channel their knowledge into real-world impact.' Recipients were recognized for their originality, interdisciplinary thinking, and commitment to community impact, with work ranging from AI-driven sustainability research to clinical innovations using virtual reality. Many demonstrated leadership beyond the classroom—organizing cultural events, launching national campaigns, and contributing to global conferences and local partnerships – and uplifted others through their mentorship and the inclusive initiatives they have spearheaded. "What makes these students exceptional is not just what they know, but what they have done with that knowledge,' said DrGamar. 'Each recipient of the QF Excellence Award has made tangible contributions to their communities, their disciplines, and to the broader society. And each of our awardees is a reflection of Qatar Foundation's mission – to unlock human potential and develop well-rounded leaders prepared to address the challenges of our time,' said Dr Gamar. QF's higher education ecosystem includes its own Hamad Bin Khalifa University, and seven international partner universities: Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar; Georgetown University in Qatar; HEC Paris, Doha; Northwestern University in Qatar; Texas A&M University at Qatar; Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar; and Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar. The alumni who have graduated from these universities – and the thousands continuing their academic journey within them – benefit from learning within the unique, interconnected environment of knowledge that QF has built and evolved over the past 30 years. They gain a world-class education in fields ranging from medicine, engineering, art and design, communications, and international affairs to computer science, Islamic studies, law and public policy, humanities and social sciences, and business. The integrated nature of QF's ecosystem allows its students to take courses at different universities that stand just yards from each other; have real-world experience of scientific research and tech entrepreneurship, including transforming their university startups into commercial enterprises; and cultivate a sense of citizenship and a desire for personal growth through leading and supporting community programs, becoming involved in volunteering, and benefiting from opportunities for cross-cultural understanding and exploring new interests.
Zawya
22-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser attends opening ceremony of QF's Earthna Summit 2025
Doha, Qatar – Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, today attended the opening ceremony of the second edition of the Earthna Summit, organized by Qatar Foundation. At the two-day Summit, held under the theme 'Building our Legacy: Sustainability, Innovation and Traditional Knowledge', the four winners of the 2025 Earthna Prize were announced. The opening of the Summit was also attended by Her Excellency Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, Vice Chairperson and CEO of Qatar Foundation. The Summit has brought together global and local leaders, scientists, architects, activists, and artists to explore how traditional knowledge, and cutting-edge innovation can offer powerful tools for resilience and adaptation. The Earthna Prize, launched on Earth Day in 2024 by Qatar Foundation's (QF) Earthna Center for a Sustainable Future, recognizes projects that demonstrate the integration of traditional knowledge and innovation to tackle environmental challenges. Marking the culmination of the inaugural edition, the four winning projects – selected from a shortlist of 12 outstanding finalists – will share a US$1 million prize to advance and accelerate their work. Following a rigorous selection process focused on identifying inclusive, community-rooted solutions that harness traditional knowledge to build sustainable futures, the four winners are: The Farmer Tantoh Foundation (Cameroon) – Engaging communities in water conservation by protecting spring catchments, applying indigenous knowledge, and improving water quality through sustainable purification methods. Wuasikamas Ëconeêrã by Fundación Suma Kausai (Colombia) – Mitigating climate change impacts by integrating Indigenous knowledge from the Eperara Siapiadaara, Inga, Siona, and Cofán peoples to protect biodiversity and promote harmonious living with nature. Seeds of Change Initiative by Blooming World International (Kenya) – Combating food insecurity by reviving traditional agricultural knowledge, promoting African indigenous vegetables, and empowering women and youth through sustainable farming practices. Thriving Fishers, Thriving Oceans by Blue Ventures (Kenya, Senegal, Indonesia, Madagascar, and Belize) – Partnering with coastal communities to restore tropical fisheries by supporting Indigenous small-scale fishers and tackling overfishing, habitat loss, and climate change. Speaking at the opening of the Summit, Her Excellency Sheikha Hind said: 'We are determined that the outcomes of this Summit grow from the ground beneath our own feet, shaped by our culture, our land, our weather, and our ways. We want this gathering -- and others like it-- to be spaces where we come together in recognition of our 'fitrah', the innate human nature within us all, that calls us to uphold what is just, what is generous, and what is in harmony with the world around us.' Dr. Gonzalo Castro de la Mata, Executive Director of Earthna, praised the Earthna Prize winners for their visionary, tradition-based innovations, adding: "The Earthna Prize recognizes solutions that draw on deep-rooted knowledge and collective experience to address today's environmental challenges. Our winners demonstrate that true innovation is not just about new technologies—it is also about revitalizing and adapting time-tested practices for a sustainable future. Their work serves as a powerful reminder that resilience and progress are built on the practices we already possess, reimagined for the needs of our time." The Earthna Prize trophy was designed by Nada El kharashi, a renowned local sustainability designer and an alumna of Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar – a QF partner university. The trophy, 'Earthna Echo', captures the sound wave pattern of the word 'Earthna' and transforms it into a sculptural representation of Earthna's impact. The first call for submissions for the Earthna Prize received more than 400 submissions from over 100 countries. A global review committee selected the 12 finalists, which underwent a second detailed review process by a panel of environmental and cultural leaders. The international jury comprised His Excellency Fahad Bin Mohammed Al-Attiyah, Founder and CEO of Caravane Earth; His Excellency Iván Duque, Former President of the Republic of Colombia; Robin Hanbury-Tenison, Founder of Survival International; Dr. Frannie Léautier, Senior Partner and CEO of SouthBridge Investments; and the Honorable Mary Robinson, former President of Ireland. The Earthna Prize is awarded biennially, with details of the second edition of the Earthna Prize to be announced later this year. Earthna Center for a Sustainable Future Earthna Center for a Sustainable Future (Earthna) is a non-profit policy, research, and advocacy organisation, established by Qatar Foundation (QF) to promote and enable a coordinated approach to environmental, social, and economic sustainability and prosperity. Earthna is a facilitator of sustainability efforts and action in Qatar and other hot and arid countries, focusing on sustainability frameworks, circular economies, energy transition, climate change, biodiversity and ecosystems, cities and the built environment, and education, ethics, and faith. By bringing together technical experts, researchers, government and non-government organisations, businesses, civil society, and policy and decision-makers, Earthna fosters collaboration, innovation, and positive change. Using their home—Education City—as a testbed, Earthna develops and trials sustainable solutions and evidence-based policies for Qatar and hot and arid regions. The organisation is committed to combining modern thinking with traditional knowledge, contributing to the well-being of society by creating a legacy of sustainability within a thriving natural environment. Qatar Foundation – 30 Years of Unlocking Human Potential Qatar Foundation (QF) is a non-profit organisation which, for 30 years, has supported the sustainable human, social, and economic development of Qatar through entities, programs, and initiatives focused on education, science and research, and community development. QF was founded in 1995 by His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the Father Amir of Qatar, and Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, who shared the vision of providing quality education for everyone in Qatar. In the three decades since, this vision has evolved into a globally unique, multidisciplinary ecosystem of knowledge – offering opportunities for lifelong learning, fostering innovation, and empowering people to be socially engaged citizens and drivers of positive change. This diverse but interconnected ecosystem comprises a world-class education landscape spanning the full spectrum of learning from pre-school to post-doctoral level; research, innovation, and policy centres addressing some of the world's greatest challenges facing the world; alongside community facilities for people of all ages to seek knowledge, embrace active lifestyles, and expand their horizons within QF's Education City, spanning 12 square kilometres in Doha, Qatar. With its efforts concentrated on generating impact in five key areas – progressive education, sustainability, Artificial Intelligence, precision health, and social progress – QF remains committed, as it has been for the past 30 years, to investing in Qatar and its people, and contributing to shaping a better world for all.
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
