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Experts in pharmaceutical and biotech industries focused on the benefits and advantages of strategic partnerships for Qatar’s precision health goals during a recent discussion as Qatar Precision Health Institute (QPHI), a national centre for research and implementation, officially launched recently under Qatar Foundation.They considered the unique aspects of the regional research environment and investment landscape, focusing on Qatar as a hub for attracting the international life sciences industries to invest in precision health research.With a focus on strategic partnerships and meaningful collaborations, QPHI aims to address the evolving healthcare needs of Qatar while contributing to global efforts to advance precision healthcare. It is set to shape the future of healthcare in Qatar and the region through the implementation of precision diagnosis and treatments, paving the way for a healthier and more resilient future.Speaking on the topic "Building Partnerships with Pharma and Biotech in the Middle East," the experts explored the opportunities and challenges of fostering impactful research collaborations in precision health. Industry experts, representing companies at the forefront of genomics and precision medicine, included Dr Fahmi Satour, medical head, Gulf Countries, Roche; Dr Rana Lonnen, managing director, Novartis Venture Capital; Dr Ann Aerts, head of the Novartis Foundation; and Dr Mohamed Adel Ghanem, head of Healthcare Investments at Qatar Investment Authority. The session was moderated by Dr Eleni Fthenou, scientist at QPHI’s Qatar Biobank.Highlighting the importance of precision health and its ongoing development in Qatar, Dr Ghanem said: “Precision health is the right way to do healthcare and Qatar has been leading the way here with institutions like the Qatar Biobank and the Qatar Genome Programme. We are focusing on the right infrastructure and with the support and efforts of global pharma players, we can help not only the region, but the world.”Dr Aerts underscored the importance of access to medical data and advanced technological resources and capitalising on them to shift from traditional methods of healthcare. We need to do things differently, shift our mindset, and focus on being predictive, preventive, and proactive with our approach to healthcare. We must capitalize on this huge amount of data, massive computational power, and advanced computational technologies to help us shift from a reactive to a proactive approach to build preventive health systems.”The session also prioritised actionable insights for building and sustaining partnerships, including the collaborative role of venture capital investments in biomedical innovation and novel therapies.According to Dr Lonnen precision medicine is a top priority for every corporate investor in pharma. She also stressed the importance of collaboration and insisted that trust is an important part of any partnership.The panelists also touched on the mutual benefits and “win-wins” of partnerships in boosting the capabilities of both the biotech industry and the region’s healthcare institutes beyond clinical research and data access, especially to translate research discoveries into clinical settings.Dr Fahmi added: “The pharma industry can bring global reach, cutting edge technology, new ways of working, and agility. Whereas institutions like hospitals can help with their infrastructure and local reach and exposure. This is a win-win for all of us and also a win-win for patients."

The chief of Qatar Research Development and Innovation (QRDI) Council has exhorted all the stakeholders to follow ‘responsible innovation’ for the true progress of humanity. "QRDI is mandated to harness global technological advancements and foster home grown innovations to enhance the resilience and economic prosperity of Qatar. Our commitment extends beyond mere technological advancements and achievements as we advocate responsible innovation. We aim for true progress that is inclusive and equitable, supporting innovation for all and not just for a few,” secretary general Omar al-Ansari stressed on Thursday.He was speaking at the Qatar Economic Forum 2024, where the final day was marked 'Innovation Day,' with QRDI as the innovation sponsor. Al-Ansari remarked: “QRDI believes in responsible innovation. We proactively consider the broader impact of the researchers and their work on the society and the environment.”Referring to the speech of HE the Prime Minister and the Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohmed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim al-Thani, at the opening of the forum, al-Ansari said that the third Qatar National Development Strategy aggressively targets doubling the growth of R&D expenditure at the percentage of GDP to 1.6%, ensuring that the majority of the R&D is driven by innovative private sector and for Qatar to be among the top 30 in the global innovation index.Al-Ansari pointed out that throughout history, technological innovation has scripted the landscape of the society. He explained: “These innovations have dramatically transformed our way of life globally. From medical advancements that have extended the life expectancy worldwide, advancements in information and technology have bridged cultures and provided new opportunities for learning and enhanced global business.”While highlighting the positive impact of innovations, al-Ansari also reflected on the challenges that the innovations present for the new generation. “The innovations and the rapid advancements in technology present its own challenges. Many of these innovations have resulted in some negative consequences as well. We can no longer say with certainty that our children will live in a world that is better than ours,” he noted.He referred to several researches that point to tougher future times for the coming generations than the present generation. “Though excited about the incredible acceleration and impact of the innovation, there are also certain uncertainties about the benefits coming in the future,” he continued.He also called on various stakeholders to address the disparities in innovation especially between the Global South and the rest of the world. He asked the researchers to pioneer a global initiative that ensures all nations especially the Global South to have access to cutting-edge technologies and play a pivotal role in shaping the innovation agenda.Al-Ansari further appealed for deployment of innovations that serve as tools for social justice; innovation that are to be used for reducing economic disparities. “We need a robust partnership between governments and private partners and civil societies to develop a sustainable innovation ecosystem for long term societal gains,” he added.

The economic relationship between the United States and Qatar is ‘absolutely fabulous’ providing great opportunities for both the nations, noted US Ambassador Timmy Davis yesterday. Ambassador Davis was speaking to the media on the sidelines of the Qatar Economic Forum 2024 being held at Raffles and Fairmont Doha.“It is not just because of what has already been done, but because of the opportunity in it what is going to come. I will lead a delegation of Qataris to Select USA, a forum where Qatari business leaders, Qatari government leaders would have opportunities to talk about how to invest in the United States. This relationship, I think can be a right model for the region. While Qatar is geographically smaller than some of the countries in the region, their ability to invest in the right places and create the right partners, is second to none in the region,” said Davis.Answering a question from 'Gulf Times', Davis said that what Qatar wants to do, mirrors what they are best at. He explained: “Qatar has a burgeoning agriculture industry here. I know that is going to be part of how they want to invest in the United States. In fact, I think agriculture is going to be a major topic for Qatar. They are obviously interested in technology. I have a trip planned to Silicon Valley in June that will include talking about opportunities in cybersecurity. AI is going to be a big deal and so I can see Qatar investing in those areas in the United States.”Ambassador Davis noted that the US offers immense opportunities for Qatar. He remarked: “We have always said that 50 states in the United States offer 50 or more different opportunities. Different tax structures, different visions for their future, the idea of sub national diplomacy, investment in the heartland in areas that don't get a lot of attention present a great deal of opportunity for Qatar and its businessmen.”The envoy continued that he is quite excited and satisfied with the current economic relationship with Qatar and the United States and more excited about what is to come. As for the co-operation in the education sector, Ambassador Davis said that the US universities are doing an excellent service here in Qatar providing such a valuable service, not just for Qatar but for the region and beyond.“The universities have done such a great service for people who could not have left Qatar to get an education in the United States. Having these six universities here, people come here from various parts of the world to these world-class universities. I find that absolutely heartening and remarkable. It says something about the ways we can absolutely work together.”He also recalled his recent conversation with Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, chairperson of Qatar Foundation and how the vision of Her Highness is reshaping the education scenario in the country and the region. He also said that several US educational institutions have keen interest in collaborating with Qatar and several joint researches and collaborations are already underway between Qatar and the US institutes.

The economic relationship between the United States and Qatar is ‘absolutely fabulous’ providing great opportunities for both the nations, noted US Ambassador Timmy Davis on Tuesday. Ambassador Davis was speaking to the media on the sidelines of the Qatar Economic Forum 2024 being held at Raffles and Fairmont Doha.“It is not just because of what has already been done, but because of the opportunity in it what is going to come. I will lead a delegation of Qataris to Select USA, a forum where Qatari business leaders, Qatari government leaders would have opportunities to talk about how to invest in the United States. This relationship, I think can be a right model for the region. While Qatar is geographically smaller than some of the countries in the region, their ability to invest in the right places and create the right partners, is second to none in the region,” said Davis.Answering a question from 'Gulf Times', Davis said that what Qatar wants to do, mirrors what they are best at. He explained: “Qatar has a burgeoning agriculture industry here. I know that is going to be part of how they want to invest in the United States. In fact, I think agriculture is going to be a major topic for Qatar. They are obviously interested in technology. I have a trip planned to Silicon Valley in June that will include talking about opportunities in cybersecurity. AI is going to be a big deal and so I can see Qatar investing in those areas in the United States.”Ambassador Davis noted that the US offers immense opportunities for Qatar. He remarked: “We have always said that 50 states in the United States offer 50 or more different opportunities. Different tax structures, different visions for their future, the idea of sub national diplomacy, investment in the heartland in areas that don't get a lot of attention present a great deal of opportunity for Qatar and its businessmen.”The envoy continued that he is quite excited and satisfied with the current economic relationship with Qatar and the United States and more excited about what is to come. As for the co-operation in the education sector, Ambassador Davis said that the US universities are doing an excellent service here in Qatar providing such a valuable service, not just for Qatar but for the region and beyond.“The universities have done such a great service for people who could not have left Qatar to get an education in the United States. Having these six universities here, people come here from various parts of the world to these world-class universities. I find that absolutely heartening and remarkable. It says something about the ways we can absolutely work together.”He also recalled his recent conversation with Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, chairperson of Qatar Foundation and how the vision of Her Highness is reshaping the education scenario in the country and the region. He also said that several US educational institutions have keen interest in collaborating with Qatar and several joint researches and collaborations are already underway between Qatar and the US institutes.

As the Class of 2024 of Weill Cornell Medicine in Qatar (WCM-Q) graduates, many of them recollected their journey that groomed them to be fine young medical doctors.Dr Hussam Kawas, who passed out with academic distinction and excellence in professionalism in the clinical curriculum noted that the campus life at WCM-Q was vibrant, dynamic and culturally diverse.“WCM-Q has provided me with unparalleled opportunities for hands-on learning, mentorship from esteemed faculty, and exposure to cutting-edge research, all of which have been instrumental in shaping my academic and career trajectory,” he said. Dr Kawas plans to pursue cardiology specialisation, and work in Qatar after completing the training to give back to the community.For Dr Abdulla Mohamed al-Suwaidi, the most significant milestone was the project he had worked on for incorporating a new method of teaching medical students how to examine patients. He plans to finish his internal medicine training at Hamad Medical Corporation and is considering a career in medical education.“I have seen the gaps in medical education, and WCM-Q gave me all the resources to fill them. I am grateful for all the support I have received from the WCM-Q faculty,” he said.Dr Ibrahim Khalid Saeed Laswi who graduated with academic distinction and honours in research feels that his campus life was very vibrant and supportive.“I am heading to Yale University to start my training in adult neurology. Following that, I plan on sub-specialising in vascular neurology. I hope to return to Qatar to utilise all my knowledge and skills to serve the community and improve healthcare in the region,”Dr Turki Almutairi who graduated with academic distinction and a number of other honours said that the most significant milestone during his time at WCM-Q was the matching into his residency programme of choice in his dream specialty of anaesthesiology.Dr Almutairi - the valedictorian at the convocation - hopes to become a board-certified anaesthesiologist and contribute to patient safety and quality care in the field. He said: “The rigorous curriculum, mentorship and support from WCM-Q was invaluable in helping me accomplish my goals. I aspire to provide the best possible care for my patients and remain humble in my pursuit of knowledge.”Dr Areej Nauman who graduated with academic distinction and several other honours said medicine is a challenging but rewarding profession which classically requires a lot of dedication and sacrifice.Dr Nauman plans to pursue neurology residency training at University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. “One of the most valuable aspects of medical school at WCM-Q has been the privilege of gaining a diverse set of experiences both in Qatar as well as at Weill Cornell Medicine in New York City. It is this unique medical training which has made me strive to become a well-rounded physician who is confident and comfortable in my approach to patient care for people from all walks of life,” she added.

Qatar's Minister of Public Health, HE Dr Hanan Mohammed al-Kuwari was honoured with the 'Visionary Leader Award in Health System Excellence' by the Arab Hospitals Federation during the Arab Forum for Healthcare Development which began on Monday in Doha.The two-day forum, organised by the Arab Hospitals Federation is under the auspices of the Ministry of Public Health and supported by the strategic partner Hamad Medical Corporation, in collaboration with Arab ministries of health, WHO Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean and other key stakeholders.Dr al-Kuwari was presented the honour by the Arab Hospitals Federation president M P Fadi Alame and general secretary Prof Tawfik Khoja for her great efforts in the development and progress of the Arab health sector. Dr Khaled Abdul Ghaffar, minister of health and population of the Egypt received the ‘Excellence Award in Public Health Improvement.’Dr al-Kuwari stressed the great importance of the forum's theme "Shaping the Future of Healthcare" and the important issues it discusses with the high-level participation of decision-makers, experts, and specialists from Qatar, the Arab region, and the world."In light of the developments and health challenges facing the global health system, the great importance of continuous work to develop health systems to be stronger, more resilient, and more sustainable, this forum is an important occasion to exchange the best experiences and successful practices in the region and the world to achieve the desired progress in the healthcare sector," Dr al-Kuwari said in a statement.She also noted that Qatar is keen to exchange successful experiences and distinguished models and maximise their benefit locally, regionally, and globally, in a way that contributes to achieving Qatar's national vision and health strategies, to serve the Qatari community and to enhance Arab and international cooperation in the health field.After the opening ceremony, there was a ministerial panel discussion on ‘ Future of Healthcare: Turning Challenges into Opportunities’ in which Sheikh Dr Mohammed bin Hamad al-Thani, director, Non-Communicable Diseases Prevention Programmes at the Ministry of Public Health highlighted the progress Qatar has made over the years in the health sector. “Strong collaboration with international partners, a clear vision, very effective and efficient system and focus on quality are some of the hallmarks of our healthcare management which have proved to make it a very resilient one.”The other panelists were Dr Khaled Abdul Ghaffar, minister of health and population of the Egypt, Joseph Hazel, CE of Elegancia Healthcare and Na’am Jamshed, vice president, Government Affairs and Policy, EMEA Emerging Markets, Johnson and Johnson.This year's forum covers several important topics, most notably the future of Arab healthcare, the integration of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, enhancing patient care, and the improvement of healthcare delivery, in addition to focusing on value-based care, sustainability, and digital healthcare transformation.The forum is attended by decision-makers in the Arab health sector, including ministers, heads of health authorities, government officials, representatives from relevant regional and international organisations, and key decision-makers in the healthcare sector from major institutions and international companies.

Qatar Foundation ( QF) is highlighting the need for greater co-operation and cohesion among teachers, parents, counsellors and other stakeholders to promote a congenial learning atmosphere for children with autism.As April, the Autism Awareness Month draws to a close, some academic staff from QF schools told Gulf Times that people with autism need to be provided a ‘high level of structure and routine’ and teachers have to be very proactive.A psychologist working with QF affirmed that it is essential to approach each interaction of children with autism with patience, empathy, and flexibility.“Every child is unique, so understanding their individual needs, preferences, and challenges is crucial. I strive to create a supportive and structured environment where they feel safe to express themselves and learn at their own pace. I continuously educate myself on the latest research and interventions in autism to provide the best possible care for my young clients,” said, Chahnaz Baroudi, clinical psychologist, Renad Academy, QF.Baroudi said that the major factors to guide children with autism into the mainstream involve a multi-faceted approach.“Early intervention is key, including specialised education, behavioural therapies, social skills training, and support from various professionals such as speech therapists and occupational therapists. Collaboration between parents, educators, therapists, and community resources is essential to create inclusive environments that accommodate the unique needs of children with autism,” she explained.According to Baroudi, parental support and co-operation are vital for the success of interventions with children with autism.“My suggestions to parents of children with autism include prioritising early intervention, seeking out appropriate therapies and educational programmes, fostering a supportive and inclusive home environment, and advocating for their child's rights and access to resources. Parents play a crucial role in their child's development by providing love, encouragement, and opportunities for growth.”Brett Maclennan, a special education teacher at QF said that communication with autistic children needs to be very clear and precise. He said: “What neuro typical students learn innately, such as self-management and social skills, needs to be explicitly taught. They cannot just be taught typical Maths, English Science curriculum. They also need lessons on how to talk to people, how to manage friendships or how to access the community.“Along with the communication challenges, there is a whole sensory world that many of our students struggle to navigate. Coping and self-management strategies need to be taught and gradual exposure to these experiences is needed.”According to Maclennan, integration empowers individuals with autism and enriches the communities. “While there can be anxieties initially, fostering acceptance and providing reasonable accommodations like flexible work schedules can make a huge difference. I've seen firsthand how a student with autism blossomed in a supportive mainstream classroom, particularly in electronic media,” he noted.The academic stressed that inclusion shouldn't stop with school and said: “I'd love to see autism-friendly cinema showings, designated quiet shopping hours, and sensory-friendly spaces for those who become overwhelmed. This level of community support would be life-changing for the students.”Another QF special education teacher is of the view that providing a supportive and inclusive environment both in and out of the classroom is a major support for students with autism.“Understanding their unique needs and strengths is critical to effective education and interaction. I ensure I provide the visual schedule, rules, time, fidget toys, sensory aids, among others. It is essential to clarify to students the expectations before any activity, by showing a video or reading a related story. This will help them to decrease their anxiety,” said Azeeza Abu Zahra, a special education teacher at QF.“Parents contribute critical information about their child's abilities, struggles, preferences, and needs. Collaborating with parents enables a comprehensive approach to the child's education, establishing consistency between home and school settings. Parents play a significant part in this long journey by encouraging their children, actively participating in developing individualised education plans, providing emotional support, reinforcing skills learned in school, and collaborating with educators to promote their child's growth and success,” she added.

The Qatar Ambulatory Pulmonary sleep disorder Clinic is implementing a new approach to managing patient flow by integrating telemedicine follow-up and overbooking strategies to optimise technology and operational efficiency, ensure timely consultations and improve patient experience.The strategy outlined in the Qatar Medical Journal ‘Telemedicine: Potential impact of the future improved accessibility and waiting list to HGH Sleep Clinics through overbooking strategy, Hamad Medical Corporation ( HMC), Qatar’ and published on QScience.com highlights that the overbooking strategy, combined with telemedicine, can help streamline virtual appointments and ensure efficient use of healthcare professionals' time. It further points out that this can ultimately reduce waiting times and improve accessibility for patients seeking sleep-related healthcare services.According to the article by a group researchers from HMC, telemedicine usage is predicted to enhance care quality and reduce healthcare spending by 32%, boosting patient satisfaction, community trust, and teamwork, thereby reducing hospital resource burden and costs.The article points out that that with the wider use of telemedicine, the hotline service can also be established to optimise clinic efficiency, improve resource utilisation, and minimise waiting time for suboptimal diagnostic and therapeutic sleep tests. Thus, telemedicine has become a transformative force in healthcare.The telemedicine strategy can be used for virtual consultations and follow-up appointments reducing in-person visits. In addition, remote monitoring devices are another method to control the waiting time of the consultations. Home sleep apnea testing devices can be used for remote monitoring allowing electronic sharing with healthcare providers.This can also optimise scheduling with overbooking of appointments. It offers flexible appointment times for wider patient schedules. It also helps to strategically overbook slots to maximise utilisation of available time slots. It also leads to online appointment system user friendly platform and utilise automated reminders via email or SMS.With the implementation of the strategy at the Qatar Ambulatory Pulmonary sleep disorder Clinic, a multidisciplinary team was formed to review the clinic's current practices and identify barriers to patient flow. A strategy was chosen to integrate overbooking and telemedicine follow-up.Staff education and training were also provided. The team collaborated with HMC Nasmak to evaluate patient feedback and improve the patient experience. They also communicated with clinical informatics team to create encounters, improve electronic communications, and manage appointment systems. Monthly data collection was conducted to evaluate clinical performance and update practice.

Moderate to heavy rains were recorded in various parts of Qatar for several hours from late on Monday, accompanied by strong winds. While the northern region experienced heavy rains and hail, several other parts of the country, including Doha, received only scattered to moderate rain.Thundery rain was observed in northern areas such as Shamal and Ruwais along with strong winds. According to Qatar Meteorology Department, total amount of rain reached about 45ml in the early afternoon Tuesday. Social media is abuzz with videos of heavy rains in the northern parts of the country as well as the rough and turbulent waves in the sea.The Met department said that thundery rain accompanied with hail was observed at several parts of the northern region. By evening the department said that there could be thundery rains along with dusty winds mainly northeasterly to northwesterly with high speed.Meanwhile, other parts of the country received moderate to scattered rain. In addition, most parts of Qatar experienced very heavy winds and the seafront areas witnessed very rough and turbulent sea with very high waves lashing the shores. However, most parts of Doha had only scatted rains and the traffic was normal with no major incidents. The city had overcast conditions most of the time during the day.With the Eid holidays coming to an end, it was expected that all the students would start their academic session from Tuesday. However, the Ministry of Education and Higher Education had warned about the adverse weather conditions and instructed educational institutes to provide classes online for the day.Financial institutes such as the banks worked remotely with most branches closed for the day and only select branches, mostly in malls, functioned.Various parts of the region have been experiencing heavy rains for the last several days. Parts of Oman, the UAE and Saudi Arabia witnessed very heavy rains resulting in several causalities.

A collaborative research team involving Qatar University (QU) professors and international researchers have made a breakthrough in decoding the potential blood markers that could lead to early detection of multiple myeloma (MM), an elusive and incurable blood cancer.This heralds a future where doctors can detect MM at its earliest stages, granting patients a powerful edge in confronting the disease.According to an article on the latest edition of *QU Research Magazine by the research team lead and associate professor of biochemistry at QU’s College of Medicine, Dr Shona Pedersen, the research team used advanced metabolomics and biostatistics to decode the blood markers that could be used for early detection of MM.The collaborative research team included Prof Soren Kristensen from Denmark’s Aalborg University Hospital, Prof Trygve Andreassen from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology, and Prof Mohamed Elrayess, associate professor at QU’s Biomedical Research Centre.MM, the second most common blood cancer, remains a challenging medical enigma.It is a disease marked by diagnostic setbacks, recurrent relapses and no definitive cure.Interestingly, MM begins its course covertly as Monoclonal Gammopathy of Undetermined Significance (MGUS), but with time, manifests symptoms like bone pain, anaemia, kidney issues and infections.Detecting MM early can dramatically alter the disease trajectory, enhancing both prognosis and survival.However, the absence of a straightforward blood test for early detection is a significant gap.“At present, our grasp of the metabolic changes between MGUS and MM is in its nascent stages, with only a handful of publications shedding light on MM’s metabolic nuances,” said Dr Pedersen. “Our study endeavoured to sharpen the molecular lens through which we view this relentless disease, pinpointing potential metabolites before they manifest clinically, thereby paving the way for more proactive interventions.”The team employed Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy to contrast the serum metabolomes of healthy subjects with those diagnosed with MGUS and MM.Through the application of NMR spectroscopy, their findings showcased a marked deviation in amino acids as MGUS takes shape.Delving into the metabolic profiles of MGUS patients, it was observed that levels of alanine, lysine and leucine were diminished, while formic acid levels surged in comparison to controls.The research group delved deep into the intricate relationships intertwining the clinical characteristics of MM patients, specific metabolites and certain lipoprotein subfractions.They identified a strong correlation between levels of M-protein and serum proteins.The team highlighted these specific lipoprotein subfractions as pivotal markers closely associated with the transition from MGUS to full-blown MM.By shedding light on biological pathways previously undetected in plasma or bone marrow samples, they offer fresh perspectives on the journey from premalignant MGUS to malignant MM.Furthermore, profiling serum metabolites offers invaluable data, facilitating the discovery of novel biomarkers.These can significantly improve early detection and intervention for MGUS and MM.“This study offers more than knowledge – it provides a beacon of hope,” Dr Pedersen said. “By identifying these lipoprotein subfractions as potential early markers, we have opened the doors to possible early intervention strategies.”“The earlier we can detect and intervene in the development of MM, the brighter the prognosis for those affected by this malignancy,” she concluded.

Qatar Foundation (QF) has been at the forefront in Qatar’s efforts to transform the nation to a knowledge economy, triggering decisive change through research and innovation.According to its website, QF has been curating big ideas and creating platforms to spark the next great breakthroughs. “We are helping position the nation as a global research and innovation nerve centre with an ecosystem focused on developing ideas with impact. Across the fields of IT, energy, environment and healthcare, QF’s focus on Research, Development, and Innovation (RDI) is bringing new technologies into the global marketplace, and identifying new challenges and opportunities,” QF says.As for the efforts in this direction, QF has been able to achieve a lot since it started which is evident in the numbers, it has provided.Accordingly, QF has funded over 4,800 projects between 2007 and 2018 and has invested over$1.4bn through Qatar National Research Fund.A total of 331 inventions have been created by QF research and development ecosystem and 42 Startups have been developed by Qatar Science & Technology Park since 2016. So far eight patents have been granted to QF inventions.With every initiative, QF remains focused on generating economic value, transferring knowledge, and establishing national and international RDI partnerships that align with Qatar’s needs and priorities.“We are helping our homegrown researchers and innovators together with experts from around the world to address our biggest challenges. In our quest to make Qatar a leading hub for research and innovation, we have built several pioneering initiatives that are triggering transformative change across the nation, the region, and the world at large,” notes, QF.QF aims to make sure that its research projects span a wide range of industries and themes to create meaningful, multisectoral difference on the challenges the country face.One major aspect of its research programme is collaboration as it has tied up with organisations and institutions from around the world to facilitate the transfer of ideas, jointly address areas of interest, and multiply the reach and benefits of the research and innovation.With organisations as diverse as Tübitak in Turkey, to Boeing, Harvard University, and MIT in the United States, QF global partnerships span the spectrum of industry, academia, tech development and entrepreneurship, and public policy.QF initiatives also engages thought-leaders from around the world to gather ideas and spark conversations on some of the world’s most pressing challenges. From multidisciplinary research conferences to global summits and programmes on healthcare and education, QF is building diverse networks of citizens, activists, policymakers, and academics united by their goal of making change happen.QF has set up three specialised research institutes operating under the umbrella of Hamad Bin Khalifa University and all of them are focused on conducting pioneering research in areas of national priority for Qatar, supporting sustainable development and economic diversification goals, while having the potential to benefit the world. The three research institutes: Qatar Biomedical Research Institute, Qatar Computing Research Institute and Qatar Environment and Energy Research Institute are focusing on some of the most pressing challenges that the country faces. “Our ecosystem isn’t about infrastructure. It is about ideas and enabling them to develop naturally to the point where they become commercialised products. We don’t force innovation to happen. But we make sure it can,” added, Hayfa al-Abdulla, innovation director at Qatar Science & Technology Park.

A ‘Mobile Smart Shower Room’ developed by a Qatar University professor can be a great support for the elderly and the people with special needs, according to the latest edition of QU research magazine. The inventor and designer is Dr Ahmed Elkhatat , section head, Research Planning and Co-ordination, Office of the Vice-President for Research and Graduate Studies, and a teaching assistant in Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering, QU.The ‘Mobile Smart Shower Room’, received a great response when it was presented at the 8th edition of the programme ‘Stars of Science,’ an edutainment television programme by Qatar Foundation.The dedicated team to the programme worked on converting this design into a practical product that was tested on ground.In the magazine article, Dr Elkhatat pointed out that simple and daily chores, considered a normal part of life for some people, such as showering, may be considered a source of anxiety and embarrassment for people who suffer from certain disabilities.The fibre glass structure, strengthened with epoxy and metal, ensures maximum safety for users who may have balance problems. The system provides an emergency key to stop the process of showering immediately if any problem occurs.The design is focused on user comfort by providing warm water and air from the beginning and controlling the temperature of water as desired. The height of the chair in the shower room can be controlled as required. The warm upper cover is made from a water-resistant substance to provide a feeling of safety and privacy in addition to avoiding suffocation.The room is equipped with a group of technically developed systems and machines. A central pump draws water from a tank equipped with sensors to measure the water temperature and level. Water is sprayed through 20 bath nozzles.There is also an air system responsible for the hot air flow that contributes to the process of drying after the shower. A central fan produces heated air. The interface is touch responsive. The mobile shower room is not only for providing the user with safety and comfort, but also for promoting self-confidence and a feeling of independence, the magazine added.

No major cases have been reported so far during the Eid al-Fitr holidays at Hamad Medical Corporation's (HMC) Emergency Departments, sources said Friday.About 900 cases were recorded Friday, on the second day of Eid al-Fitr, including 620 seen at Hamad General Hospital.Most of the cases were moderate to minor. HMC Ambulance Service also reported no major cases.Officials said the recent campaign on the need to call ambulances only for emergencies, is paying rich dividends.About 53% of the cases were people under the age of 40. Most common complaints related to mild gastrointestinal cases.The median waiting time to meet a doctor at the emergency facility was about 16 minutes.The Ambulance Services at HMC received a total of 955 calls with 56 calls related to road transport accidents. In addition, the Life Flight Service was deployed to attend to six calls.“All the cases that were reported on the second day were moderate to low intensity and we were able to reach out to them well on time. There were no serious injuries with any of the road traffic accidents and those involved were well taken care of,” said Ali Darwish, assistant executive director, Emergency and Scheduled Ambulance Service, HMC.Darwish noted that the public is co-operating well with the guidelines provided by the Ambulance Service which has made the job of the ambulance staff better. He added that the recent campaign on the use of ambulance only for emergency cases has gone down well with the general public.“Most of the public are aware of the campaign and it is evident in the number of calls for ambulances. The campaign has had a good impact among the public and we are getting good co-operation from the public in this regard,” elaborated Darwish.The Paediatric Emergency Centres (PECs) under HMC attended to several cases with Al Sadd PEC leading with 921 cases.Al Rayyan PEC attended to 434 cases and Al Wakra had 310 cases. Airport PEC took care of 180 visitors and Al Daayen had 117 visitors.

A Qatar University professor has developed a “Mobile Smart Shower Room” that can be a great support for the elderly and the people with special needs.The “Mobile Shower Room” invented and designed by Dr Ahmed Elkhatat , section head , Research Planning and Coordination, Office of the Vice President for Research and Graduate Studies, and a teaching assistant in Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering, QU, received great response when it was presented at the 8th edition of the programme ‘Stars of Science,’ an edutainment television programme by Qatar Foundation. The dedicated team to the programme worked on converting this design into a practical product that was tested on ground.Dr Elkhatat, in the latest edition of QU research magazine, notes that simple and daily issues that are considered a normal part of life for some people, such as showering, in some cases, for people who suffer from certain disabilities may be considered a source of anxiety and embarrassment.He highlights that the ‘Smart Shower Room’ was carefully designed to provide a safe, comfortable and integrated showering experience while maintaining the dignity of its users.The ‘Smart Shower Room’ is distinguished by a strong building that uses fiberglass supported with epoxy and solid services, which achieves the maximum safety for users who may have balance problems. The system provides an emergency key to stop the process of showering immediately if any problem occurs to ensure more safety.Furthermore, the design is focused on providing comfort to users by providing warm water and air from the beginning and controlling the temperature of water to the user’s wish is possible. The room is endowed with the design of its front door, which is designated for entry and exit. It is also possible to control the height of the chair, which is provided with marvellous arabesques. The warm upper cover is made from a water-resistant substance to provide a feeling of safety and privacy in addition to avoiding suffocation.The room is equipped with a group of technically developed systems and machines. As for the mechanical aspect, there is a developed hydraulic system to pump water. It consists of a central pump to draw water from a tank equipped with a sensor to measure the water temperature and a sensor for the water level. The pump power is controlled by a separate frequency transformer to pump water efficiently through twenty bath nozzles.There is also an air system responsible for the hot air flow that contributes to the process of drying after the shower. This system consists of a central fan that produces air with a certain flow heated through a strong heating element. Hot water is blown across special nozzles connected to a group of pipes. As for the electrical aspect, the room is equipped with electrical circuits and a control unit that enables the system to work efficiently. The room is equipped with a touch user interface, which enables the user to control several options to make this experience easier.The mobile shower room is not only for providing the user with safety and comfort, but also for promoting self-confidence and a feeling of independence, which restores the user’s sense of dignity as well as the ability to live normally and independently.

An innovative research conducted by scientists from Qatar University Young Scientists Centre (QUYSC) has unveiled the significant role of multidisciplinary chemistry informal research programmes in fostering research competencies and attitudes among aspiring scientists.The study highlights the effectiveness of an innovative research-based learning model that employs chemistry-based research projects in developing high school students’ research competency and attitudes.The chemistry-based research projects, according to an article on QU Research Magazine, were carried out as a part of an informal programme, in real-world laboratories on 330 high school students integrating different branches of chemistry, including physical, organic, inorganic, electrochemistry and biochemistry, in addition to other science and engineering areas.The programme was primarily successful in developing students’ research self-efficacy and fostering their research competencies in multidisciplinary science. Further research targets to analyse the long-term effect of the multidisciplinary research experiences on their attitudes toward higher education and research-oriented careers that can contribute to a knowledge-based economy.This study was conducted by QUYSC as part of the “I am a Researcher” programme, for national students to nurture their research-based knowledge through advanced research experiences under the mentorship of research experts and scientists. The findings published in journal of chemical education in the American Chemical Society shed light on the transformative impact of these programmes in shaping the future of scientific research.The chemistry subjects harmonise with many science and engineering disciplines, thus providing immense research scope in various multidisciplinary topics. The data were collected using a mixed method by performing an indirect assessment on the programme effectiveness, conducting surveys on students, research assistants and the research faculty mentors involved in the programme.The study, “The Role of Multidisciplinary Chemistry Informal Research Programmes in Building Research Competencies and Attitudes,” aimed to investigate the benefits and outcomes of informal research experiences in the field of chemistry. By examining the perspectives of participating students and analysing their research competencies and attitudes, the research team gained valuable insights into the effectiveness of multidisciplinary approaches in nurturing scientific talent.Through a carefully designed research programme, students were exposed to a wide range of interdisciplinary research projects that combined principles from various science and engineering branches, particularly on chemistry sub-disciplines. These projects encouraged participants to explore innovative approaches, collaborate across disciplines and think critically to solve complex scientific problems.The findings of this research study have implications for educational institutions, policymakers, and organisations invested in promoting scientific research. It underscores the importance of fostering multidisciplinary collaborations, providing informal research opportunities and promoting research competencies and attitudes among young scientists. This study serves as a call to action for the scientific community to further invest in multidisciplinary chemistry informal research programmes and create an ecosystem that nurtures the scientific potential of aspiring researchers.Prof Noora al-Thani, the study’s principal investigator, emphasised the significance of the research and added: “This programme provides invaluable opportunities for aspiring scientists to engage in hands-on research experiences and develop the necessary skills and mindset for a successful scientific career.”

As the new academic year commences for schools following Indian stream of studies, concerns over the lack of seats in schools have been raised by several parents. Despite all the Indian schools resuming the new academic year 2024-25 this week, there are a large number of parents knocking on the doors of schools, looking for admissions for their children.This is in spite of the increase in the number of Indian schools as well as the huge surge in the number of seats available. Availability and affordability are still major issues for many when it comes to school admission for their children. While the situation was more or less similar in the previous years, this year in particular has seen the demand for admission shooting up. This is primarily attributed to the increasing number of families coming to the country. In addition, affordability is another concern as most of the newcomers are looking for admission in schools which are more 'affordable'.A parent who recently brought his family to Qatar told Gulf Times that he has been approaching various schools for admission for his son and daughter for quite some time. “It has been a big issue for me for the last one month or so. Still I have not got admission for them though one school has informed me that they would consider my elder one. However, there is no word from any school for admission for my second child who is looking for admission in KG 2. So I have not applied yet for the TC from their school back in India.”Another parent whose child is already studying in a school, is unable to find admission for his second child in the same school. He explained: “I had applied for admission well on time but still I have not got any positive response. When checked with the school, I was told that they would inform if there are vacancies. This is what is happening and I don’t know what to do.”A family who recently came to Qatar is still on the lookout for the admission for their children. “Our problem is that we can’t afford high fees and we had approached many schools that charge 'reasonable' fees. Still, we have not been able to find any school and we are in a dilemma now. We may have to send the children back home if we are not able to get admission, “ said the father.Though Gulf Times had approached several schools asking for their comments on the current situation regarding admission, we have not received any response.However, one source from a leading school said that the demand for admission is so huge that they cannot cope with it. “The demand is such that we receive 10 times or even more applications against the prevailing number of seats. So this becomes a huge challenge for the school,” he added.

Family wellbeing is the cornerstone of a child's academic success, according to some Qatar Foundation (QF) academics."When parents neglect their own mental health, it creates a ripple effect that permeates every aspect of their child's life, including their education and ability to learn," said Dr Moustafa Ahmed, an educator and the wellbeing co-ordinator at Qatar Leadership Academy, a QF school.In an article on QF website, Dr Ahmed recognises the vital interplay between familial dynamics and academic success and has witnessed firsthand the repercussions of parental mental health struggles on students. He says that from increased stress and anxiety to difficulties in concentration and academic performance, the consequences are far-reaching and undeniable.“Parental stress or anxiety can manifest in a child's classroom behaviour. It can be linked to heightened emotional reactivity, difficulty in concentrating, social withdrawal, a tendency towards perfectionism and fear of failure, or even physical symptoms like headaches and stomach aches,” he explained.“Additionally, decreased motivation, behavioural issues, physical restlessness, and academic regression may be observed. Recognising these manifestations is crucial for educators to provide nurturing support, fostering a positive learning environment for the child's overall well-being and academic success.”Dr Ahmed remains steadfast in his belief in the power of advocacy and intervention. “Children learn resilience, problem-solving skills, and stress management by observing how their parents navigate challenges. Positive parental modelling fosters a growth mindset, builds self-efficacy, and significantly influences a child's overall attitude and engagement in the learning process,” he said.Dr Khalid J al-Naama, director of Family Research and Policy at Doha International Family Institute, explores why children mirror the status of their parents' wellbeing.“The home is the child’s first learning environment, and their parents or guardians are their first teachers. Young children often learn by imitating the adults in their life, and learned responses are elicited by stimuli,” he noted.Dr al-Naama underscores the importance of early intervention to foster a healthy family environment as the best way to mitigate the impact parental mental health issues have on their child’s ability to learn.“When children are over the age of 18, any processing of parental mental fitness is retrospective, and they are more likely to focus on changing the negative patterns they’ve adopted as a result,” he said.“But with younger children, the responsibility is on the parents as caregivers to understand and mitigate how their mental status is affecting their kids. They need to prioritise getting themselves the help they need to learn how to regulate and prevent future transference to their kids.”He explains how psychologists will focus on educating the parents as part of "psycho-education" sessions, where they will explain how the parent can deal with their mental health issues.“It is important to note that no one is immune to mental health issues. The more we talk about it, the more we can dispel the stigma around mental health issues in society and normalise getting help,” added Dr al-Naama.

A collaborative research between Qatar University (QU) and ExxonMobil is using drone technology to study the dugong population dynamics in the northwest coast of Qatar, home to the second largest population and the largest gathering of the marine mammal in one location.The research team comprised Dr Mohsen al-Ansi al-Yafei and Dr Yousria Soliman, associate professors in the Department of Environmental and Biological Sciences at QU, ExxonMobil's researcher Ismail al-Sheikh and a number of assistant researchers.The Gulf is home to a large population of dugongs also known as Sea Cows. Previous studies conducted in the Gulf have estimated the numbers of dugongs at approximately 6,000. The studies that extended for a period over 13 years and covered the coastal waters of Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar and the UAE, spotted the largest single group of dugongs ever reported in the world, numbering about 674, between Bahrain and Qatar.Although the number of dugongs in the Arabian Gulf is the second largest in the world after Australia, there are no accurate estimates of the numbers of dugongs in the region.According to an article by Dr Soliman published on the latest edition of the QU research magazine, using an unmanned aerial vehicle, the current study aims to explain the conditions that support the single largest gathering of dugongs in northwestern Qatar. The study highlights that currently the dugong population in the location is estimated to exceed 1,000. The study extended for more than three years and included repeated aerial surveys using drones.Another intensive seasonal marine survey monitored changes in the quality and density of sea grasses, which represent the main feeding grounds for dugongs. The observed changes in the population density over the study period was related to births, deaths, changes in habitats, fishing and boat accidents. The population age structure was also evaluated by measuring the ratio of calves to adults, as it is considered one of the indicators that help predict the extent of the increase or decrease in numbers of dugongs in the future.An accurate count of dugongs is crucial to the goal of their management and to understanding the dynamics of the populations inhabiting the area. Obtaining an accurate count of the number of animals is difficult, especially in the marine environment. This is due to the difficulty of counting, as observers do not see the animals because they are covered, either by water or plants, or they respond to the presence of observers and leave the place before they are seen. Since dugongs are spread over wide areas, trying to count their numbers is very difficult. emote photography technology using drones provides a useful tool for measuring population density in an effective and more accurate way.Since the survival of sea cow populations depends on the quality and density of sea grass habitats, the researchers also conducted quantitative and qualitative measurements for changes in sea grass habitats over several different seasons to determine the extent of change in these habitats, which are considered as home to sea cows. Understanding the dynamics of dugong populations and how they respond to the changing marine meadow habitats is one of the keys to successfully managing and thus conserving marine life and dugong population.