HBKU opens new ‘green’ student housing complex

Hamad Bin Khalifa University’s new student housing complex has opened its doors.The new complex which has state-of-the-art facilities and is operated by HBKU Housing and Residential Life, has been awarded a LEED (Leadership in Environmental and Energy Design) Platinum Certificate, the highest standard available for sustainable buildings. At least 12.5% of the power used in the residences is collected from renewable energy sources, such as the iconic wind turbines located at the main entrance of the complex, in addition to the multiple solar panels and water powered fixtures found onsite. On-campus student housing, located within Education City, is one of many state-of-the-art facilities offered to students who have been accepted to HBKU, its partner universities, or the Academic Bridge Programme (ABP).  The new complex brings together students from over 60 countries living and learning together on HBKU’s dynamic campus. It also provides an ideal opportunity for students to live closer to university, learn fundamental life skills, and balance personal interests, academic and family obligations.Dr Khalid al-Khanji, vice-president of Student Affairs at Hamad bin Khalifa University, said: “The opening of the new student housing complex complements the academic mission of HBKU by supporting student learning outside the classroom and creating a green living environment at high standards. This step will also strengthen the HBKU commitment to sustainable development and protection of the environment, one of the outcomes of the Qatar National Vision 2030.”HBKU Student Housing consists of single gendered buildings, with a co-ed community centre which includes a computer lab, study rooms, food venues, and programming space. It has a total capacity of 1,200 beds, 600 of which are currently occupied by undergraduate and graduate students. First year residents are offered a single room and encouraged to take advantage of the dining facilities within Al Majlis al-Shamali, the community centre. Returning students are given a range of housing options, from single occupation studios, to shared apartments with full kitchens. All rooms within the housing complex are single occupancy and complete with modular furniture, encouraging students to personalise their rooms.