As students in Qatar make their university choices, Ghanim al-Kubaisi, a senior student majoring in International Politics at Qatar Foundation (QF) partner university Georgetown University in Qatar (GU-Q), shares his experiences of studying in Education City.

Choosing a university is one of the most significant decisions in a student academic journey. It shapes their perspectives, career aspirations, and overall growth as individuals. In Qatar, students are fortunate to have a unique educational ecosystem that fosters not only academic excellence but also personal development, global awareness, and social responsibility.

Qatar Foundation (QF) is more than just a collection of universities; it is a thriving intellectual hub that offers students the chance to engage with a diverse community of scholars, professionals, and thought leaders. The opportunity to experience a vibrant melting pot of cultures, religions, and backgrounds, and to gain, through diversity, a perspective that one does not need to seek abroad is what makes Qatar Foundation special.

As a Qatari student, I feel privileged to have access to such a diverse educational landscape, further enriched by the exceptional quality of education provided. This truly reflects the remarkable vision and efforts of Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, whose leadership has transformed education in Qatar and positioned it as a beacon of knowledge and innovation.

From an early age, I was encouraged to think critically, challenge assumptions, and engage in meaningful dialogue. I always believed I was outspoken and willing to share my opinions; however, QF challenged me to become even more vocal than I ever imagined. The diverse student body at QF, which includes individuals from all over the world, has given me the ability to engage with different cultures, perspectives, and ideas.

A Hub of Intellectual and Cultural Exchange

Qatar Foundation is home to multiple world-renowned universities, each bringing its own academic strengths and research expertise. This unique setup creates an interdisciplinary learning environment where students from different fields of study can interact, collaborate, and learn from one another.
QF serves as a hub for a diverse array of intellectuals and interesting personalities. It attracts artists, politicians, journalists, doctors, engineers, computer scientists, biologists, and many more people from all walks of life who come together to pursue education from around the world. This dynamic environment fosters innovation, creativity, and a spirit of collaboration that is rarely found elsewhere.

When you bring together such a rich tapestry of people in one space, the conversations that emerge can be truly magical. Whether in classrooms, student lounges, or research labs, QF creates an environment where our unique expertise can come together to create one big picture something that cannot be achieved alone. This collaborative spirit is fascinating and is one of the key reasons why studying at QF is so special.

Beyond academics, the diverse extracurricular activities, cultural events, and student-led initiatives further enrich the student experience. From Model United Nations conferences to debates, hackathons, and art exhibitions, there is always an opportunity to engage in something new and broaden one horizon.

Fostering Civic Engagement and Social Responsibility

One of the core values instilled at QF is the importance of civic engagement and social responsibility. Education is not just about personal achievement it is about using knowledge to make a difference. QF encourages students to participate in community service, volunteer work, and social initiatives that have a meaningful impact on society.

During my International Baccalaureate (IB) years at Qatar Academy QF school, I had the opportunity to participate in a service trip to Nepal. This experience was transformative. In the classroom, it’s one thing to grasp concepts during lectures and note-taking. But diving into the field and experiencing reality firsthand was a completely different experience.

In Nepal, we worked with underprivileged children, providing educational support and engaging in community development projects. Seeing their lives in person, rather than just through photographs, profoundly impacted me and inspired me to share their stories with the world. It was a stark reminder of the disparities that exist globally and the responsibility we have to use our privileges for good.

This experience shaped my perspective on education and social justice. It made me realise that academic knowledge alone is not enough, we need to apply our learning to create tangible solutions. QF nurtures this mindset in its students, encouraging us to think beyond our own lives and consider how we can contribute to the broader society.

Having this opportunity at a young age allowed me to engage in greater civic involvement. At QF, students realise the importance of contributing their skills to help those in need. Whether through volunteer work, student-led initiatives, or partnerships with local organisations, the emphasis on social impact is deeply embedded in the educational experience.

Unparalleled Opportunities for Leadership and Professional Development

One of the most remarkable aspects of studying at QF is the access it provides to leadership and professional development opportunities. Students are not just passive learners; they are encouraged to take initiative, develop leadership skills, and engage in real-world experiences that prepare them for their future careers.

One of the greatest opportunities I have had is the Georgetown Leadership Ambassadors Programme. The experiences I have gained through this programme have been incredible. I have met heads of state, including the President of Lithuania, and given tours to various diplomats.

Just recently, I attended a meeting with a Nato representative. These experiences have truly immersed me in the world of diplomacy, offering insights that many people only encounter later in their careers. Engaging in this programme alongside my studies enabled me to contextualise what I am learning, as I am actively involved in real-world diplomatic activities.

While such experiences are often reserved for the professional world, the unique access afforded by QF and GU-Q allowed me to take the lead in a programme I initially knew little about. This has enhanced my confidence, leadership skills, and ability to navigate complex political discussions.

In addition to diplomatic experiences, QF provides students with access to cutting-edge research opportunities, internships, and mentorship programmes that bridge the gap between academia and real-world application. Whether working with leading scholars on policy research, collaborating with industry professionals, or participating in global conferences, students are constantly exposed to environments that prepare them for impactful careers.

The Key to Success at QF: A Passion for Learning

To be a successful student at QF, one essential quality is a genuine desire to learn and a passion for education. QF is a premier hub for academia, not just in the region but also on a global scale. To truly maximise the resources and opportunities available here, students need to embrace that desire to learn; otherwise, they may not fully benefit from what QF has to offer.

QF is not just about attending classes and earning a degree it is about engaging with knowledge in a meaningful way. Students who thrive here are those who take initiative, seek out challenges, and actively contribute to the academic community. Whether through research, leadership, or community service, there is a strong emphasis on proactive learning and personal development.

Looking Toward the Future

As I near the end of my undergraduate journey, I aspire to be a leader, though I don’t have a specific institution or organisation in mind where I want to be employed. My primary goal is to make a meaningful change, whatever that may look like. I feel a strong sense of responsibility to convey my message, not just for my own benefit, but for the youth and future generations as well.
My experiences at QF have equipped me with the skills, knowledge, and mindset needed to make an impact. Whether in policy-making, community development, or diplomacy, I know that the lessons I have learned here will continue to shape my approach to leadership and advocacy.

A Message to My Peers

To my fellow students and future generations at QF, my message is simple: Be aware of biases and different perspectives, and make your own informed decisions. Never simply adopt an opinion presented to you.

The world is complex, and navigating it requires critical thinking, open-mindedness, and the ability to engage with diverse viewpoints. QF provides the perfect environment to develop these skills, but it is up to each of us to take full advantage of it.

Education is a lifelong journey, and studying at QF is just the beginning. By embracing diversity, engaging in civic responsibility, and continuously seeking knowledge, we can all contribute to a more informed, empathetic, and progressive world.