An ex-astronaut and scientist has said it would be a “travesty” for Qatar not to become a global leader in innovation – because she believes its people can change the world.
Speaking during a visit to Qatar Foundation (QF), Dr Mary Ellen Weber – who spent almost 19 days in space on two Space Shuttle missions as a Nasa astronaut — spoke of how she has been struck by Qatar’s commitment to science, research and innovation while in the country.
“Pure research sometimes takes decades to produce results – the results of any applied or theoretical research won’t be apparent immediately,” said Dr Weber.
“For Qatar not to participate in the global race for innovation, and be a bystander, would be a travesty. But that is not going to happen. From what I have seen of the people I have met here, and the leadership of the country, the people of Qatar have the ability to transform the world,” she added.
During her time in Qatar, Dr Weber was given a tour of Education City and an insight into QF’s work in the fields of research, development and innovation, education and community development.
Dr Mary Ellen Weber visiting Education City.
