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Hamad Bin Khalifa University's (HBKU) College of Law, in collaboration with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI), World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) and the UNESCO Chair on Environmental Law and Sustainable Development, hosted the second edition of the conference on 'The Role of ADR, IP Protection, and Innovation in Advancing FDI for Sustainable Development'. The meeting was held at Minaretein, Education City.The two-day event convened an impressive assembly of top legal scholars, industry experts and policymakers to underscore the pivotal role of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) in intellectual property (IP) issues. In doing so, the gathering highlighted the effectiveness of ADR mechanisms in enhancing collaboration, particularly in sectors critical to sustainable development.Speakers also examined the intersection between sustainability policies and promotion of foreign direct investment (FDI), as well as strategies that foster entrepreneurship and SMEs across critical economic sectors. Panelists also elaborated on how robust IP protection can catalyze innovation in specific sectors, achieving the National Development Strategy (NDS3) and contributing to Qatar National Vision 2030.In addition, attendees gained insights into the latest advancements in IP rights protection both regionally and globally, underscoring the need to adapt legal frameworks to support innovation in an increasingly interconnected world. A dedicated session examined dispute resolution and IP protection in sports, where participants discussed the successful hosting of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar as a case study for regional and global leadership on this issue.Dr. Susan L. Karamanian, Dean, College of Law, HBKU, added: "This conference addresses the critical issue of IP protection and ADR in a fast-changing world. Mediation provides a confidential, efficient, and flexible means of resolving IP disputes, while ensuring business continuity. Qatar has been proactive in promoting mediation, aligning its IP laws with international standards reflecting its commitment to strengthening its dispute resolution framework and promoting a thriving business environment."For his part, Ignacio de Castro, Director of the WIPO Arbitration and Mediation Center, said: "Mediation and arbitration have proven to be effective in resolving complex disputes related to technology and intellectual property. This is evident from the experience of the WIPO Arbitration and Mediation Center. By working with our partners in Qatar, we shared our experience and WIPO's tools that complement court procedures and help foster innovation in this field."Leveraging multidisciplinary and international partnerships, HBKU continues to foster impactful innovations by inspiring dialogues about contemporary challenges, promoting research mechanisms, and aligning its efforts with Qatar's strategic development goals. (QNA)

As Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) embarks on the 2025-2026 academic year, we celebrate the admission of our largest cohort since the university’s establishment. This year, HBKU has welcomed a record number of Bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral students, reflecting the institution’s growing global appeal and commitment to fostering transformative education. This year’s cohort of students from around the world highlights HBKU’s role as a hub for excellence in interdisciplinarity, where global scholarly impact meets local societal impact. One of the most exciting aspects of this admission cycle is the introduction of several innovative academic programmes designed to address pressing global challenges. Among them is the Master of Global Health Policy, a two-year professional degree that equips students with expertise in international health policy, economics, and the integration of artificial intelligence in healthcare. Equally innovative is the Master of Science in Biopsychology and Neuroscience, which focuses on the biological foundations of neurological and psychiatric conditions, preparing graduates to advance mental health research and therapies. The Master of Arts in Translation for the Creative Industries stands out by training translators and cultural mediators for dynamic markets in media, entertainment, and digital content creation. Rounding out these additions is the Master of Science in Economics, focusing on data-driven decision-making in an era of big data and sustainability-conscious decision-making. These programmes not only expand HBKU’s portfolio but also attract a cohort eager to tackle issues in impactful areas like public policy, economics, sustainability, and personalised medicine through cutting-edge research and curricula. At HBKU, we take pride in our unique academic and student support services, which go beyond the curriculum. Our students benefit from personalised mentoring, state-of-the-art research facilities, and holistic wellness programs that ensure their success. Central to this is the HBKU mindset that instils depth in knowledge and research alongside breadth in professional attributes. Graduates emerge proficient in communication, collaboration, creativity, critical thinking, entrepreneurship, empathy, and leadership. This multifaceted approach empowers them to navigate complexities with confidence. A key strength of HBKU lies in its location within Education City, offering unparalleled access to courses and resources from partner institutions. This ecosystem provides students with flexible pathways, granting them greater agency over their educational journeys. Whether through cross-enrolment opportunities, joint research projects, research mentoring, or collaborative events, learners can tailor their experiences to align with personal and professional goals. Interdisciplinarity is woven into the fabric of all HBKU’s academic programmes. By blending fields like AI, sustainability, personalised medicine, social progress, and progressive education, we prepare graduates for an increasingly complex world in which jobs of the future remain unimagined. Our emphasis on these core areas ensures that students are not just knowledgeable but adaptable, ready to drive innovation in uncertain landscapes. Reflecting on this landmark cohort, I’m inspired by the potential it holds. These students embody HBKU’s mission to cultivate global leaders who will address humanity’s greatest challenges. As they begin their journeys, we remain committed to supporting their growth, fostering a community where curiosity thrives and impact is inevitable. To our latest cohort of students, welcome to HBKU where the future is shaped.