*Hamad Bin Khalifa University commences 2019-2020 academic year with Orientation Day

Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) welcomed the largest number of incoming students, as well as returning students, during its orientation day Sunday to kick off the 2019-2020 academic year.
More than 370 new students, comprising 46 nationalities, including 26% Qataris, attended the event, giving them the opportunity to meet future classmates, faculty and staff, and obtain key information about campus resources ahead of commencing their studies. 
“We are proud to welcome the new students who will add to our existing diverse and impressive student body,” HBKU president Dr Ahmad M Hasnah said.
“Our institution places great emphasis on educating and preparing our students to become global citizens, ones who are equipped with the knowledge and skill sets needed to actively contribute to the current and future challenges facing Qatar and the world,” he noted.


Dr Emad El-Din Shahin at the event


Maryam Hamad al-Mannai speaks (supplied picture)


Dr Ahmad M Hasnah addressing the gathering

The orientation day, dubbed as ‘Hayakom’, provided students with a comprehensive overview of what they can expect from their respective programmes and the unique research opportunities available at HBKU. 
Hayakom commenced with opening remarks from senior management at HBKU, and was followed by a series of information sessions aimed to better prepare students for the next chapter of their academic journey.
Earlier this year, HBKU introduced eight new programmes across six of its colleges: a Master of Arts in Applied Islamic Ethics from the College of Islamic Studies; PhD in Humanities and Social Sciences from the College of Humanities and Social Sciences; Master of Information Systems in Health Management and Master of Science in Sports Management (a joint degree with the University of South Carolina) from the College of Science and Engineering; Master of Laws in International Law and Foreign Affairs and Master of Laws in International Economic and Business Law from the College of Law; Master of Science in Exercise Science from the College of Health and Life Sciences (a joint degree with the University of South Carolina); and a Master of Public Policy offered by the College of Public Policy. 
HBKU’s new degree programmes are tailored to build specialised capacity to address the most in-demand current and future skills of local and international employment markets. 
The expansion of HBKU’s academic offerings reflects the university’s growing role as an advocate for innovation in Qatar and beyond. 
Addressing students, Dr Emad El-Din Shahin, interim provost of HBKU, said: “As students at HBKU, you can look forward to an immersive academic and cultural experience while receiving a world-class education from renowned experts in their respective fields.”
“The eight new programmes that were introduced across six of our colleges earlier this year have been specifically tailored to support current market trends with a strategic forecast of skills expected to be in demand in the future,” Dr El-Din Shahin noted.
“These latest academic offerings further complement our existing portfolio of research-driven graduate programmes that are geared towards addressing Qatar’s pressing challenges and making a lasting impact globally,” Dr El-Din Shahin added.
Meanwhile, Maryam Hamad al-Mannai, vice president of student affairs, encouraged students to take full advantage of HBKU's dynamic research and learning environment:
“Today, you join a diverse community that thrives within a multicultural and integrated educational environment with access to a wealth of resources and cutting-edge facilities to complement your academic outcomes,” she added. “Embracing the many opportunities both inside and outside of the classroom will undoubtedly ensure an enriching and rewarding time at HBKU.” 
HBKU was founded on the pillars of excellence, innovation, people and partners. The university is an innovation-centric academic institution, leading in education and research that is dedicated to solving critical challenges facing Qatar and the world. 
HBKU develops interdisciplinary academic programmes and national research capabilities that drive collaboration with the world’s best institutions, prepare future leaders with an entrepreneurial mindset, and shape novel solutions for positive, global impact.
Related Story