In a celebratory evening filled with pride and achievement, the Global Studies Institute (GSI), in collaboration with Arkansas State University, organised the graduation ceremony for its first cohort of students earning bachelor's degrees in Digital Design Technology, Engineering Management Systems, and Cybersecurity.
The event was attended by representatives from the Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MoEHE), several distinguished guests, and the students’ families, a statement said.
This graduating class represents the fruit of a strategic partnership aimed at providing high-quality American academic programmes to students in Qatar, aligned with the needs of both the local and global job markets.
In his speech during the ceremony, GSI executive director Dr Shaker Lashuel emphasised that the partnership with Arkansas State University reflects the two institutions’ belief in the importance of delivering outstanding American education within Qatar.
"This ceremony is not just a celebration of a new graduating class; it is also the culmination of an ambitious vision aimed at empowering Qatari youth and residents to access globally recognised education, opening wide horizons for a prosperous future," he said.
Representatives of Arkansas State University also expressed their happiness with the ongoing success of the partnership, praising the high academic standards achieved by the students and the Institute’s efforts in creating a stimulating educational environment.
In a touching speech delivered on behalf of her fellow graduates, student Sara Jemel expressed her gratitude for the educational experience and thanked the faculty and administration.
"This was not the path I initially wanted, but it turned out to be the best path that God chose for me,” she said.
Student success manager Amal Dib also expressed her joy at celebrating the graduation of the first cohort.
"Today, we are filled with immense joy as we celebrate with the graduates and their families, marking the culmination of four years of education, learning, and academic support that brought us to this finish line,” she said.
The ceremony featured several segments, including a video presentation showcasing the graduates’ journey, honouring outstanding students, and capturing commemorative photographs.
At the conclusion of the event, the organisers extended their heartfelt congratulations to the graduates, reaffirming their commitment to supporting students through development programmes and new academic partnerships that align with the aspirations of youth and the demands of the future.
