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Qatar Tribune
12-05-2025
- Health
- Qatar Tribune
UCQ graduates reflect on legacy, learning, future at final convocation
Satyendra Pathak Doha In an emotionally charged ceremony that marked both an ending and a new beginning, the University of Calgary in Qatar (UCQ) held its final convocation attended by Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, chairperson of Qatar Foundation, on Sunday. The event not only celebrated the academic accomplishments of UCQ's last cohort of graduates but also honoured the institution's vital role in shaping the future of Qatar's healthcare system over nearly two decades. As the only Canadian university in Qatar, UCQ has made remarkable contributions to the nursing profession in the country, equipping hundreds of students with critical skills and clinical knowledge to support and enhance the nation's health services. This final graduation ceremony carried a sense of deep pride, reflection, and gratitude, especially among the students who now prepare to take their first steps as professional nurses. In candid conversations after the ceremony, several graduates shared their thoughts on their journey at UCQ, the significance of their education, and the paths they hope to pursue moving forward. Angeli Mae Tan, originally from Philippines, has called Qatar home for the past 15 years. She enrolled at UCQ with a clear focus: 'to pursue her dream of becoming a nurse'. 'When I decided on nursing, UCQ was the go-to institution,' Angela said. 'It was the only university offering a comprehensive nursing programme at the time, and I knew I wanted to study there.' Angeli fondly recalled her experience at the university, highlighting the positive atmosphere and supportive faculty. 'The environment was so healthy and uplifting. The university made a real effort to promote mental well-being, not just for students but for faculty as well. That made a big difference in our learning experience,' she said. She made special mention to instructors like Amby and Anna, whose guidance left a lasting impact. Angeli has already applied for positions within Qatar, particularly at Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), and hopes to begin her nursing career in the country that has been her home for over a decade. Marise Antoun Abou Jaoude, a Lebanese national who has lived in Qatar for 13 years, also chose UCQ for its strong academic reputation and hands-on approach. 'It was the ideal fit for my future goals,' she said. 'The university provided us with exceptional opportunities for hospital placements, allowing us to engage directly with patients, doctors, and staff in real-world settings. Those experiences were invaluable.' Marise emphasised the holistic nature of her training, which prepared her not only to be a nurse but also a compassionate healthcare provider. 'Each hospital I trained at—from various HMC facilities to other institutions—played an important role in my growth. I learned something new with every rotation,' she said. Looking ahead, Marise plans to continue her career in Qatar. 'This is where I studied, where I trained, and where I feel nurses are truly appreciated. I would love to give back to this community,' she stressed. Maymona Aby Yousuf, a Bangladeshi national who has lived in Qatar for an impressive 25 years, echoed similar sentiments. Passionate about healthcare from a young age, Maymona said her decision to study at UCQ was driven by the university's reputation and the opportunity it provided to make a meaningful contribution to society. 'Nursing was my calling, and UCQ was the place that made it possible,' she said.
Qatar Tribune
12-05-2025
- Health
- Qatar Tribune
Sheikha Moza attends final graduation ceremony of University of Calgary in Qatar
DOHA: Chairperson of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development (QF) Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser has attended the University of Calgary in Qatar's (UCQ) final graduation ceremony at the Qatar National Convention Centre, celebrating the latest batch of graduates and honouring the university's nearly two-decade legacy of supporting the country's healthcare sector. The ceremony was also attended by Minister of Education and Higher Education, HELolwah bint Rashid bin Mohammed Al Khater, and a number of senior representatives from leading local institutions, including the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, the Ministry of Public Health, Hamad Medical Corporation, Sidra Medicine, and Qatar Foundation, along with a number of ambassadors, graduates and their families, and members of the faculty and administration. Some 120 graduates received their degrees, joining the university's more than 1,100 alumni, who have played a pivotal role in shaping the nursing profession in Qatar. Since its founding in 2006, the university has been committed to providing high-quality education that combines international best practices with local requirements. It has offered distinguished academic programs, including bachelor's and master's programs in oncology, nursing leadership, clinical nursing, and the 'Fundamentals of Nursing' program. These programs have produced a skilled and diverse workforce, including more than 120 Qatari graduates, many of whom now hold key leadership positions in the healthcare sector. In her opening remarks, Professor Dr Hala Sultan Saif Al Essa, President and CEO of the University, said: "Here is a new class looking forward to the future. After years of hard work, perseverance, dedication, and dedication, it is the harvest day, as 120 graduates join more than 1,000 of their colleagues who have contributed, and continue to contribute, to strengthening the nursing and healthcare system in the State of Qatar." She added: "We were honoured to pioneer the introduction of the first accredited bachelor's degree in nursing in Qatar, along with master's programs in oncology, nursing leadership, and clinical nursing, along with a continuing professional development program. These initiatives have contributed to building highly skilled nursing professionals, forming the core of Qatar's modern healthcare sector." In turn, Sheikh Dr Khalid bin Jabor Al Thani, Chairman of the University's Board of Trustees, said: "We are proud of our graduates who have passed through the doors of this university, and of the profound impact the university has had on developing the healthcare system, enhancing the resilience of the national economy, and supporting the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030 by preparing qualified and distinguished cadres." The university's contributions were not limited to academic education; it was also a pioneer in the fields of scientific research and community service. It established strategic partnerships with prestigious institutions, such as Hamad Medical Corporation, Sidra Medicine, and the Primary Health Care Corporation, and provided its students with practical training opportunities that meet the needs of the evolving healthcare system. Through its participation in the Interprofessional Education Committee, the university has also contributed to fostering a culture of multidisciplinary collaboration in healthcare in Qatar. In addition, the university achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first institution in the Middle East to be accredited by the International Best Practices Organization (BPSO), underscoring its commitment to evidence-based care. In this context, Dr Janet Rankin, Acting Dean, said: 'While this ceremony marks the end of our institutional work in Qatar, it is far from the end of our journey. Our graduates are the living extension of the university's mission, embodying its values of excellence, service, and community. We will continue to see the university's impact in every healthcare facility and in every medical initiative led by one of our graduates.' In a speech delivered on this occasion, Hassan Kander, Director of Student Services and Registration at the University, emphasized that the students' journey was not just a matter of academic years, but rather a journey of hard work, determination, and professional and personal maturity. He said, "Every student here has a story of struggle woven with unwavering will, from their first steps in orientation to their standing today on the graduation podium. This moment is the culmination of their journey to becoming seasoned practitioners, dedicated to serving their communities. And here we are witnessing the fruits of their determination and the support that surrounded them throughout their journey." Alanoud Hamad Almarri, Excutive Director of Nursing-Work Force in Hamad Medical Corporation, took the stage to lead the graduates in reciting the Graduate Pledge, which expresses their commitment to serving their communities, advancing knowledge, and striving to uphold the values of honesty and integrity in every path they take. As the University of Calgary in Qatar prepares to close its doors, its mission remains in the achievements of its graduates and their ongoing contributions to advancing healthcare in Qatar and beyond.
Qatar Tribune
11-05-2025
- Health
- Qatar Tribune
Sheikha Moza attends UCQ final convocation
Satyendra Pathak Doha Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, chairperson of Qatar Foundation, on Sunday attended the final convocation of the University of Calgary in Qatar (UCQ), marking the close of a remarkable chapter in the university's history. The ceremony celebrated the achievements of its last cohort of graduates and paid tribute to UCQ's profound contributions to advancing Qatar's healthcare system over the past two decades. Held at the Qatar National Convention Center (QNCC), the event was also graced by Minister of Education and Higher Education Her Excellency Lolwah bint Rashid bin Mohammed Al Khater along with senior officials from key national institutions, including the Ministry of Public Health, Hamad Medical Corporation, Sidra Medicine, and Qatar Foundation. Ambassadors, faculty, staff, and families joined the graduates in celebrating the milestone. A total of 120 graduates received their degrees, joining a distinguished network of more than 1,100 UCQ alumni who have played a critical role in elevating the nursing profession in Qatar. Since its inception in 2006, UCQ has provided world-class nursing education tailored to local needs. Through its Bachelor of Nursing, Master of Nursing, and Nursing Foundations programs, UCQ has nurtured a highly skilled and diverse nursing workforce. More than 120 Qatari nationals are among its graduates, many now serving in leadership roles across Qatar's healthcare landscape. Opening the ceremony, UCQ President and CEO Prof Hala Sultan Saif Al Easa said, 'This graduating class stands as a testament to years of hard work, perseverance, and dedication. Today, 120 graduates join a legacy of over a thousand professionals who continue to strengthen Qatar's healthcare system.' She added with pride, 'We were the first to offer a Qatar-accredited Bachelor of Nursing degree. Our CPD programmes and master's degrees in clinical nursing, leadership, and oncology have helped shape a robust nursing workforce essential to modern health care in Qatar.' Echoing these sentiments, Sheikh Dr Khalid bin Jabor Al Thani, chair of the board of trustees at UCQ, emphasised the university's legacy and its alignment with national priorities. Sheikh Dr Khalid bin Jabor Al Thani said, 'Today's ceremony is both a celebration and a farewell. We are incredibly proud of every student, and we honour the impact they have made, and will continue to make, on healthcare in Qatar. UCQ's contributions to the nation extend far beyond education; by cultivating a homegrown, highly qualified nursing workforce, the university has strengthened not only the health sector but also Qatar's economic resilience and national development goals in line with the Qatar National Vision 2030. As we mark the graduation of this final cohort, we do so with immense pride and gratitude for the deep and lasting impact UCQ has had on our society.' Over nearly two decades, UCQ distinguished itself not only through academic excellence but also through a deep commitment to community engagement, research, and collaboration. Strategic partnerships with leading healthcare institutions—such as Hamad Medical Corporation, Sidra Medicine, and Primary Health Care Corporation—enabled students to gain hands-on experience that aligned with the dynamic needs of Qatar's healthcare system. As part of its collaborative mission, UCQ actively contributed to the Interprofessional Education Committee (IPEC), joining forces with other major healthcare entities to promote interprofessional practice in the country. Further cementing its leadership in nursing education, UCQ became the first institution in the Middle East to earn the prestigious Best Practice Spotlight Organization (BPSO) designation—an international benchmark for implementing and sustaining evidence-based nursing practices. Through these efforts, both students and faculty played a vital role in enhancing clinical outcomes and advancing patient-centered care. Interim Dean of UCQ Dr Janet Rankin said, 'Although this final graduation marks the conclusion of UCQ's operations, it does not mark the end of our story. Coming from the main campus in Canada to serve in Qatar, I've had the privilege of contributing to the university's final chapter and witnessing firsthand the powerful impact of its mission. The dedication, compassion, and professionalism of our graduates are now deeply embedded in the fabric of Qatar's healthcare system. 'They embody the core values our institution upholds—excellence, service, and community. It has been an honour to be part of this journey and to see UCQ's legacy reflected in the lives and careers of our alumni. I am especially grateful to Qatar for its unwavering support and visionary leadership. UCQ's achievements have been made possible by the trust, generosity, and shared purpose that defined our partnership with this extraordinary nation.' Emphasising the personal evolution of the graduating class, Director of Student and Enrolment Services at UCQ Hassan Kandar said, 'Each of our students carries a story of resilience, purpose, and transformation. Witnessing their journeys from orientation to convocation has been a privilege. They have grown into confident, skilled nursing professionals, ready to serve their communities. Today's ceremony stands as a testament to their perseverance and the unwavering support system that guided them.' During the ceremony, Executive Director of Nursing Work Force Alanoud Hamad Almarri addressed the graduates. In a moving gesture, she led the class in reciting the Graduates' Pledge, symbolising their shared commitment to their profession and society. Though the university will soon close its doors, UCQ's legacy will live on through its alumni and the enduring impact it has made on Qatar's healthcare sector. 'The University of Calgary in Qatar expresses heartfelt gratitude to Qatar, the University of Calgary in Canada, and all the students, faculty, staff, and partners who shaped its remarkable journey. As this chapter closes, UCQ's spirit will continue—sustained by the knowledge it cultivated and the leaders it inspired,' The University of Calgary in Qatar said in a statement issued on the occasion.
