The graduates of Hamad Bin Khalifa University’s (HBKU) College of Humanities and Social Sciences have changed the face of translation in Qatar and the Middle East to a great extent, noted the founding dean Dr Amal Mohamed al-Malki.
She was speaking to Gulf Times on the occasion of the 2018 graduation of the HBKU students yesterday.
“The programmes have improved the translation industry to a great extent in the country and the region. This is very evident from the quality of the graduates. We have taught what quality translation means and have given a great distinction between various types of translations improving the quality of translation in the region,” explained Dr al-Malki.
“This year has been a very special one for us as we have started two new MA programmes, very unique to Qatar and the region. We are growing in number not only in students and faculty but also in research outcomes. It also leads to more engagement with the society,” said Dr al-Malki.
“We are graduating the 5th batch of students from Translation and Interpreting Institute as well as the graduates of MA in Translational Studies and MA in Audiovisual Translation. All in all, there are 19 graduates this year. Around 20% of them are Qataris and the total strength of Qataris in the college at present is about 40%,” she said.
“The most striking fact is in the diversity of the students as well as the rapid growth in the number of students and the faculty. We have Qataris and non-Qataris and Arabs from different parts of the world. Many of the graduates are already employed and this degree adds additional value for their positions. The fresh graduates who had joined the programme, stand to gain from unlimited opportunities in the country and beyond.”