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The College of Public Policy (CPP) at Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) has completed an intensive training programme for senior officials at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA). The course, designed under the theme ‘The Role of the State of Qatar in Mediation and the Resolution of Regional Conflicts’, equips officials with advanced skills relevant to the fields of diplomacy and conflict resolution, a statement said. The three-day training, delivered by CPP Prof Dr Sultan Barakat, was attended by around 25 participants holding high-ranking positions at MoFA, Ministry of Defence, and the armed forces. Dr Abdelaziz al-Hour, director of the Diplomatic Institute, stated: “The choice of subject reflects the strategic importance Qatar places on mediation, and we were delighted to have Dr Barakat share his extensive and global experience with our colleagues.” The curriculum explored the complexities of mediation strategies and concepts, analysed real-world case studies, and discussed tools for measuring the effectiveness of mediation, highlighting the importance of regional and international co-operation in peacebuilding. Additionally, participants were informed on how Qatar’s soft power influences policymaking during times of crisis, the impact of the state’s mediation on peace processes in various regions, as well as Doha’s ability to navigate complex geopolitical situations while maintaining neutrality.

The College of Public Policy (CPP) at Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), through its Hadaba initiative, recently held ‘Hadaba 25: Public Narrative & Data Storytelling’ forum at Minaretein, Education City. This year's theme was designed to advance innovation in policy design through narrative strategy and data storytelling. In doing so, it explores the intersection of data, which is transparent, accountable, and empirical, with storytelling providing the emotional resonance needed to engage people, build narratives, and communicate complex concepts. The two-day event brought together around 180 policymakers, researchers, practitioners, and students to develop practical, data-driven narratives that inform public policy. It blended collaborative training sessions, masterclasses, workshops, talks and keynotes to ensure participants are equipped with skills in data visualisation, policy communication, and collaborative storytelling. As part of the event, Unicef expert Priscillia Hoveyda delivered a talk on 'Storytelling in Humanitarianism,' emphasising the importance of promoting this medium among people facing displacement and humanitarian crisis. Representatives from Qatar Research, Development and Innovation Council; Harvard Kennedy School, Weill Cornell Medical College and the Leadership Hub also led sessions and masterclasses across various topics. The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology led a talk session which explored Qatar's public sector in the context of narrative. Commenting on the theme of the event and its significance, Dr Logan Cochrane, acting dean, CPP, said: “Authentic stories are more memorable than raw data, and this starts by understanding exactly what a narrative is, its parts, and how to align them to inspire action and inform decision-making. We recognise that storytelling grounded in data is not only a communication skill but a strategic policy tool.”