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The Ministry of Endowments (Awqaf) and Islamic Affairs honoured the scholars and intellectuals who took part in the first Annual World Conference on the Qur’an and Human Knowledge: Towards Sound Human Understanding, and the inaugural Ummah Writers’ Forum, organised by Awqaf in collaboration with Qatar University (QU).The honorees were recognised by HE the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs, Sheikh Dr Khalid bin Mohammed bin Ghanem al-Thani, with a host of academics and researchers from QU and the Ibn Khaldun Center for Humanities and Social Sciences, in attendance, in appreciation of their scholarly and intellectual contributions.The purpose of this initiative is to reinstate the centrality of the Holy Qur’an in shaping human and social knowledge, and to foster the integration between the Sharia and human sciences, thereby contributing to a civilisational and intellectual renaissance for the Islamic nation, said Director of the Department of Islamic Research and Studies Sheikh Dr Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Ghanem al-Thani.He also announced the launch of the second edition of the conference and the forum, scheduled to convene in October 2026, commending the participants and researchers who enriched the sessions with their valuable papers and interventions.Director of the Ibn Khaldun Center at Qatar University, Dr Badran bin Lahsan, stated that the two events embodied the significance of reinstating the Holy Qur’an’s pivotal role in the production of human and social knowledge.He noted that the Holy Qur’an provides a holistic vision of existence and offers a set of values and standards that help guide thought and contribute to building humans and societies.The conference helped open a balanced intellectual dialogue between the Sharia sciences and the modern human and social sciences, underscoring the importance of sustained collaboration among academic and intellectual institutions, in addition to the exchange of expertise among researchers from a variety of disciplines, to ensure institutional continuity and to enrich the research and intellectual experience within Islamic communities, he said. Representing the guests at the forum, Dr Abdel Majid al-Najjar emphasised that the Ummah Writers series, which spanned four decades in publication, served as a pioneering reformist school that has contributed to consolidating the civilisational identity of the Islamic nation and safeguarding the Islamic personality in its doctrinal, intellectual, and behavioural dimensions.He further underscored the importance of constant renewal within the series to keep pace with contemporary developments and challenges, enabling the formation of a modern Muslim personality capable of addressing intellectual and social issues and benefiting from civilisational advancements without compromising deep-rooted Islamic values.

The University Rapid Chess Championship, organised by the Qatar University Sports Federation in collaboration with the Qatar Chess Association (QCA), concluded at the Community College gymnasium.Mahjoub Mohammed of Doha University of Science and Technology claimed first place in the men’s individual competition with nine points, ahead of teammate Muhannad Hussein Mohammed in second, while Qatar University’s Yousef al-Janahi finished third.In the women’s individual category, Qatar University’s Sana Nour Kartel emerged champion. Victoria Honordez of Doha University of Science and Technology secured second place, with her colleague Ghalia al-Naimi completing the podium.Doha University of Science and Technology also dominated the team events, taking first place in both the men’s and women’s team championships. Qatar University placed second in both categories, while Community College finished third in the men’s event and Hamad Bin Khalifa University claimed third in the women’s.Mohammed al-Mudhahka, President of the QCA, praised the high level of participation, noting that the rapid chess format showcased students’ mental and cognitive abilities. He stressed the Federation’s commitment to promoting chess culture in universities and strengthening cooperation with sports federations across the country.

Qatar University (QU)’s Ibn Khaldon for Humanities and Social Studies Centre, in co-operation with the Ministry of Endowments (Awqaf) and Islamic Affairs, has inaugurated the ‘1st Annual Conference on the Qur’an and Human Knowledge’, along with the ‘1st Forum of Ummah Writers’.The opening was attended by HE the Minister of Endowments and Islamic Affairs Ghanem bin Shaheen al-Ghanem; Dr Omar al-Ansari, president of QU; several vice-presidents; and senior officials from various ministries; as well as academic and governmental sectors.Dr al-Ansari highlighted that the conference aligns with QU’s strategic plan and research priorities, which include emphasising research in the humanities and social sciences to foster scholarly focus on cognitive, human, social, and cultural issues, thereby promoting ethical, value-based development and sustainable growth in our societies. He also highlighted the conference’s role in cultivating human knowledge awareness in accordance with the guidance of the Holy Qur’an.Sheikh Dr Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Ghanem al-Thani, director of the Department of Islamic Research and Studies at the Ministry of Endowments, also delivered a speech welcoming the attendees.He emphasised the significance of the occasion, which combines the conference and the forum, stating that the conference is part of broader efforts to restore the important role that Qur’anic knowledge has historically contributed to guide human sciences and methodologies, as well as in connecting researchers to it in both approach and objective.Sheikh Dr Ahmed also emphasised the significance of the ‘1st Forum of Ummah Writers’, which highlights the Kitab Al-Ummah series, a rich Qatari cultural and intellectual legacy that has been published for more than four decades since its inception.During this time, it has strived to achieve its intended goals, including rebuilding the Muslim character, reviving the concept of ‘Fardh Kifayah’ (communal obligations) and the importance of specialisation, contributing to the development of a righteous elite, and promoting awareness of the significance of the approach that address’s the cosmos’ signs and laws using the knowledge of divine revelation as its primary reference and source.Dr Badrane Benlahcene, director of the Ibn Khaldon Centre at QU, stated that the conference aligns with the centre’s dual objectives of bridging and localisation. Bridging aims to intellectually connect various disciplines to address human and social issues in an integrated and precise manner. Localisation, meanwhile, involves re-evaluating contemporary sciences, knowledge systems, and theories to ensure they align with religious and cultural identities and resonate with societal contexts, as well as methodological and practical requirements, thereby ensuring community benefit.The conference aims to reaffirm the central role of the Holy Qur’an in shaping contemporary discourse on human and social knowledge. It seeks to bridge the gap between Islamic sciences and the humanities and social sciences by connecting researchers from diverse disciplines with the Qur’an, enabling them to utilise it as a framework for understanding and guiding various human and social phenomena.Additionally, the conference encourages scholars in Islamic disciplines to engage systematically with the humanities and social sciences and to contextualise these fields while considering Qur’anic guidance.

Qatar University (QU) hosted the 5th National Three Minute Thesis (3MT) Competition, which brought together graduate students from 10 universities in the country to present their research through concise and engaging presentations lasting no more than three minutes.A total of 19 finalists competed before an audience of more than 250 participants, including faculty members, students, researchers, and representatives from academia and industry, at the event sponsored by ConocoPhillips Qatar. **media[361724]**The first place was awarded to Ikram Mustapha Zoukh, PhD in Health Sciences at QU Health.Noof Abdulla al-Hajri, MSc in Accounting and Finance at the University of Doha for Science and Technology’s College of Business, secured second place, while Najamus Sahar Riyaz, Master of Environmental Engineering at the QU’s College of Engineering, earned third place.The People’s Choice Award went to Lieutenant Mohammed Abdullah al-Marri, Master of Arts in Defence Diplomacy at Joaan bin Jassim Academy for Defence Studies.The judging panel comprised Dr Khalid al-Ali, consultant to the Office of the Minister of Education and Higher Education; Eman al-Shamari, senior scientist at the ConocoPhillips Global Centre for Water Sustainability; engineer Faisal Mohammad al-Ansari, executive director of Qatar Calendar House; Dr Aisha Jassim al-Kuwari, chief executive of Roza Publishing; and Dr Lotfi Belkhir, dean of Academic Affairs at Barzan University College.The 3MT Competition, originally developed by Australia’s University of Queensland, challenges graduate students to convey the importance of their research to a non-specialist audience within three minutes.Since its launch in Qatar, the competition has grown into a national platform that promotes academic excellence, strengthens research communication skills, and fosters collaboration among higher education institutions.Prof Aiman Erbad, the vice-president for Research and Graduate Studies at the QU, said in his opening remarks that the competition underscores the university’s dedication to providing a stimulating environment for higher education by developing policies, programmes, and laboratories; offering grants and training; and ensuring all requirements for excellence in research and learning – preparing individuals who will contribute to sustainable development projects and the Qatar National Vision 2030.In his remarks, ConocoPhillips Qatar human resources manager Eric Thomas said: “By supporting and nurturing these students, we are investing in future leaders, doctors, scientists, and professionals who will address challenges at both the local and global levels.”“We are proud to continue sponsoring this competition, which provides students with a platform to showcase their abilities and contribute to building a knowledge-based future for Qatar,” he said.

The College of Arts and Sciences at Qatar University (QU), in collaboration with Hamburg University of Applied Sciences (HAW Hamburg) in Germany and the National Planning Council, organised the international conference “Empowering Sustainability: Sustainable Development Goals and Future Prospects in the Arab World.”The two-day conference, brought together leading experts, policymakers, and practitioners to exchange knowledge and best practices on advancing sustainability. The conference provided a platform for regional and international dialogue, enabling stakeholders in the Arab world to benefit from global experiences while addressing local and regional priorities. Sessions covered pressing topics such as food and water security, renewable energy, climate change, education for sustainability, and digital innovation.**media[361718]**Dr Fatima Ali al-Kubaisi, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at QU, stated: “This conference is the outcome of constructive collaboration between the College of Arts and Sciences and HAW Hamburg with strategic support from the National Planning Council. It reflects QU’s commitment to fostering co-operation with national institutions stemming from our deep belief in the importance of integration between academic institutions and executive bodies to achieve our shared goals.”Dr al-Kubaisi noted that the conference themes address key topics such as food and water security, renewable energy, climate change, and education for sustainability — aligning with both national and regional priorities and reflecting the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, which have become a roadmap for humanity toward a more stable future.Ahmed Khalid al-Sumaiti, director of the International Indicators and International Cooperation Department at the National Planning Council, emphasised collective responsibility.Prof Walter Leal, director of the Research and Transfer Centre for Sustainability and Climate Change Management at HAW Hamburg, noted that the event offered a valuable opportunity to exchange insights and share experiences at a time when the need for regional and international collaboration is increasingly urgent to address accelerating challenges and achieve development goals in a tangible and effective manner.

Commercial Bank Financial Services (CBFS), in collaboration with Qatar University, hosted a two-day workshop at the university premises. The workshop was dedicated to sharing and promoting financial literacy amongst students.Led by industry experts, the workshop equipped students with practical tools and knowledge to support their investment journey, foster entrepreneurship, and contribute to Qatar’s growing economy. The first day covered Qatar’s local market, index selection methodology, and approaches to relative valuation and sector analysis. The second day introduced students to a typical career path in investment while exploring best practices in technical analysis.Through the workshop, students developed a deeper understanding of financial literacy and were encouraged to envision careers in business and investment.Hamad al-Shehri, General Manager of CBFS, commented: “At CBFS, we believe in the importance of a financially aware community, well-prepared for future economic challenges. “Through this workshop, we helped empower the next generation with the tools and confidence to lead Qatar’s future investment and financial future.”

Qatar University (QU) and ExxonMobil Qatar launched the 11th edition of the Qatar University ExxonMobil STEM Teacher Academy (Questa) Wednesday, reaffirming their commitment to advancing STEM education locally.Established in 2012, the academy is the only international edition of the original ExxonMobil Teachers Academy developed in the US. It continues to stand as model of educational innovation in Qatar, with a particular focus on science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) subjects, a statement said.Developed in partnership with the Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MoEHE) and QU’s National Center for Educational Development (NCED), the academy equips math and science teachers with integrative STEM approaches and instructional methods. Its overall objective is to inspire more students to pursue STEM careers, drive innovation, and contribute to a sustainable future for Qatar.This year’s academy brings together 60 educators from grades 7-8 across 30 government schools, in addition to 10 Teach For Qatar (TFQ) fellows. Participants will take part in a two-phase learning experience that includes a 42-hour workshop, followed by hands on classroom-based field training during the 2025–26 academic year. They will also receive personalised mentoring and coaching to effectively apply STEM practices in their classrooms.“Investing in teachers today is an investment in the future,” said Rashid al-Hajri, vice president, Government & Public Affairs Manager for ExxonMobil Qatar. “The academy goes beyond training; it’s shaping the next generation of STEM leaders. We’re proud to be part of this long-standing, renowned initiative, that has achieved remarkable outcomes over the years alongside our partners.”Since its inception, the academy has trained more than 550 teachers and 67 TFQ fellows, impacting over 22,500 students across Qatar. Looking ahead, the academy will develop select educators as master trainers and establish key schools as designated STEM learning hubs to increase its reach and impact across the country.“Our support for the Qatar University ExxonMobil STEM Teacher Academy reflects our commitment to providing quality education that inspires students and contributes to the objectives of the Qatar National Vision 2030 and the Third National Development Strategy,” said Maha al-Rowaili, Assistant Undersecretary for Educational Affairs at the MoEHE.Dr Huda al-Kubaisi, director, NCED at QU, thanked ExxonMobil Qatar for supporting Questa, a leading platform for raising awareness about STEM and empowering teachers. "Such efforts foster creativity and innovation, and support Qatar’s aspirations for a brighter future,” she added.

The College of Sport Sciences at Qatar University (QU) has welcomed its first batch of male and female students since its launch in March 2024. This marks a new achievement that reflects Qatar's commitment to developing sports education and research and supporting its National Vision 2030 for a healthier and more active society. During the fall 2025 semester, 210 male and female students applied for admission to the college, and 103 were accepted. The majority of these students, representing 80% of the total, were Qatari nationals (54 female students and 49 male students). This reflects the community's confidence in the importance of the programmes offered by the college. On this occasion, Dean of the College of Sport Sciences at QU Dr Khalid W Bibi, stated in an exclusive interview with Qatar News Agency (QNA) that through its four-year academic programmes, the college supports the human and social development pillars of Qatar National Vision 2030. It is committed to remaining flexible and proactive in responding to the needs of the local and regional labour market, as well as to the rapid developments in sports science globally. Prof. Bibi noted that this ensures the provision of quality programmes that keep pace with international academic best practices and standards. Furthermore, its establishment is in itself a reinforcement of the legacy of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, as this tournament was not just a passing sporting event, but a historic turning point in Qatari sports. He emphasised that the establishment of the college came to meet the national need for qualified personnel in the fields of sport management and sports training, indicating that Qatar is investing in sports today not only with the aim to organise events and enhance athletic performance in competitive sports or as an investment vehicle, but also as a means to encourage physical activity and sports for all. Regarding the motivations behind establishing the College of Sport Sciences at QU and its mission, the college aims to prepare future leaders in the fields of organisation, marketing, governance, training, and sports development through advanced academic programmes (120 credit hours) that combine theoretical knowledge with practical application. Prof. Bibi indicated that the college supports the human and social development pillars of Qatar National Vision 2030 through sport management by qualifying cadres capable of managing facilities, organising events, sports marketing, and sports development. He added that the college supports sports training by preparing coaches who lead community physical activity programmes and develop elite athletes. Furthermore, the college emphasises the values ​​of integrity, innovation, and social responsibility as the foundation of all its programmes, enhancing the position of sports as a strategic sector in Qatar. Regarding the main academic programmes offered to students, the college provides a bachelor's degree in both Sport Management and Sport Coaching, each comprising 120 credit hours. In this context, the college offers four sub-specialisations related to each, including, Event and Facility Management, Sports Marketing and Sponsorship under Sport Management, as well as coaching for people with special needs and UEFA-standard coaching under Sport Coaching. He pointed out that the college's programmes are not limited to theoretical study alone. Students apply what they have learned through field training in sports institutions, in addition to studying cases such as major facility management, sports marketing, sports economics, and sports and international relations. In the field of sports training, students apply theoretical knowledge practically in sports performance laboratories, where they train in designing strength and conditioning programms, studying exercise physiology, sports injury management, and movement analysis, in addition to practical training with sports clubs. Prof. Bibi underscored that the establishment of the college comes within the framework of enhancing the legacy of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, adding that the college is one of the key legacy projects, providing an academic and institutional framework that ensures that the expertise, infrastructure, and knowledge accumulated during the tournament are not limited to that moment, but rather serve as a foundation for building the future of sports in Qatar. He further explained that the college is working to transform the sports legacy into a sustainable project led by national cadres. Academically and practically qualified, they will contribute to the management of the world-class stadiums and sports facilities left by the World Cup, the development of training programmes for elite athletes, and the promotion of the concept of 'Sports for All' as a strategic choice for a healthy and active lifestyle. Prof. Bibi highlighted that the College of Sport Sciences contributes to sharing Qatar's experience to the world through scientific research and international partnerships, transforming the legacy of the World Cup into a platform for knowledge production and competencies development in sports sciences, ensuring that the legacy becomes not just a sporting memory, but an ongoing educational, social, and economic driver for future generations. Prof. Bibi revealed plans to launch postgraduate programmes and new academic programmes, in alignment with the university's strategy and in partnership with the academic affairs, quality assurance, and accreditation offices. He emphasised the college's commitment to being flexible and proactive in responding to the needs of the local and regional labour market, as well as to the rapid global developments in sport sciences. This ensures high-quality programmes that align with international academic standards and best practices, he said, adding that the college's top ranking in the Arab region is a testament to the quality of its faculty and educational research. He also addressed the college's research collaborations with other colleges at Qatar University, national sports institutions, the Ministry of Sports and Youth, and the Qatar Olympic Committee, in addition to local and international academic and research institutions, aiming to develop a data-driven strategy to combat physical inactivity and its impact on public health. Regarding career opportunities for graduates, he explained that graduates of sports management have opportunities in club and federation management, facility operations, marketing and sponsorship, international sports relations, and sports for development. On the other hand, graduates of sports training can work in competitive and community training, physical conditioning, movement analysis, and various physical activity programmes. He added that the career opportunities were identified in consultation with partners over a two-year period, and that co-operation will continue in order to provide training and professional opportunities both before and after graduation, while encouraging students to benefit from the training and volunteer programmes offered by the Student Affairs. He pointed out that the college supports talented student-athletes through flexible schedules, high-level training facilities, and academic support, enabling them to develop their sports careers while gaining practical and managerial experience. The college also offers competitive scholarships to attract outstanding athletes. He added that being a talented athlete is not a requirement for admission to the college, but the college does provide a comprehensive environment for students who wish to combine education with athletic excellence. Regarding women's sports, Prof. Bibi affirmed that the college serves as a leading platform for supporting and developing women's sports in Qatar. He noted that the number of female applicants exceeds that of male applicants, and the college is actively preparing qualified female specialists with both scientific and practical competencies to train girls and women in competitive sports and physical activity. The college also aims to empower its female graduates to take on leadership roles in areas such as sports management, marketing, and sports media.

The Office of Graduate Studies at Qatar University (QU) organised the annual “Graduate Student Orientation” event to welcome a new cohort of students.In his opening remarks, Dr Ahmad al-Own, the dean of Graduate Studies, said that while students often face numerous challenges during this phase, overcoming them stands as a testament to their determination and dedication.“The QU is committed to offering high-quality graduate programmes and continuously works to enhance its academic content while providing a flexible and inclusive learning environment,” Dr al-Own said. “We are keen to offer every possible support to students- through university policies and dedicated administrative and academic staff who prioritise students’ interests.”“Building a supportive and motivating environment is a core part of our vision for higher education,” he stressed.Dr al-Own urged the graduate students to set a clear goal for their studies from the beginning, as it serves as a compass to guide them through challenges.Effectively managing time between academics and personal or professional commitments, he said, is key to success."It is also essential to allocate time for rest and hobbies to maintain mental balance,” Dr al-Own said. “We must not overlook the importance of utilising all available university resources – from academic support to administrative support – as active engagement with the university significantly contributes to overcoming obstacles and achieving excellence.”Ghada Saif al-Kuwari, the assistant dean for Student Affairs at the Office of Graduate Studies, welcomed the students and affirmed the university’s commitment to creating a supportive and motivating academic environment from day one.During the orientation, she presented an overview of the core policies that govern the academic journey of graduate students, stressing the importance of adhering to these policies for a successful experience.Al-Kuwari also briefly introduced the awards and incentive initiatives available to graduate students, encouraging them to take advantage of these opportunities during their academic path.Abdel Hakim Bishawi, the acting head of the Research and Instructions Sections, provided a comprehensive overview of QU Library facilities, highlighting the wide range of services and scholarly resources available to support students’ research and academic needs.As part of highlighting the experiences of the QU’s graduate alumni, Hamad al-Jumaily, Dr Hamza Mukhtar and Dr Thomas James, winners of the Research Distinguished Award, participated in a panel discussion where they shared the main challenges they faced, such as transitioning into graduate studies and balancing academic obligations with personal and professional life.They also explained how the design of the academic programmes facilitated their study experience and pointed to the vital role of institutional support, workshops, and available resources in helping them overcome difficulties.The alumni offered advice to new students, stressing the importance of time management, goal orientation, resilience, and making full use of the support provided by the university.