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The Qur'anic Botanic Garden (QBG), a member of Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), has collaborated with Qatar Foundation (QF)’s Herfah Programme to develop the first Dye Plants Garden at the historic Al Khater house in Education City.Herfah is Arabic for craft.This initiative bridges traditional expertise and modern scientific knowledge, reflecting joint efforts to preserve traditional practices and revive plants that have been historically used for producing natural dyes.This collaboration marks a milestone in strengthening the QBG's role in supporting national initiatives aimed at safeguarding Qatar's botanical and local heritage products as well as traditional craft.The QBG designed and curated the garden by selecting suitable plant species, supervised by the Herfah Programme, which cultivated and documented the dye-related uses of each plant.The selected plants included a diverse range of dye-producing species, notably marigold (Mexican hibiscus), introduced to Qatar for the first time by the Garden and known for its unique purple dye properties.Additionally, the project featured henna, boxthorn, castor as well as vegetables with natural pigments including beetroot, mustard, eggplant, indigo, and purslane."Our collaboration with the Herfah Programme at Al Khater house reflects the QBG's commitment to supporting sustainability initiatives that bring together heritage and scientific knowledge,” said QBG director Fatima Saleh M al-Khulaifi.“The Dye Plants Garden is more than a new green space; it is an educational and cultural platform that revives centuries-old practices,” she said. “We hope that this garden will raise community awareness of the importance of plants and highlight their cultural and environmental value, aligning with the QF's mission to promote sustainability and preserve heritage."QBG experts identified and documented dye plants based on their adaptability to the climatic conditions of Qatar and the region, as well as within the Bait Al Khater environment.An integrated garden design was developed, encompassing planting, irrigation, and an interpretive display to introduce visitors to the natural pigments produced by these plants and their traditional uses.This demonstrates a new model for environmental education and fostering community connections with Qatar's heritage.The QBG aims to serve as a global centre for sharing knowledge, education, and research related to plant resources, fostering intercultural dialogues, promoting environmental responsibility, and integrating plant conservation with modern scientific methods.

Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) and the Gates Foundation have committed to a grant agreement unique to the region on the sidelines of Doha Forum 2025.The document was signed by HBKU’s president Dr Ahmad M Hasnah and Joe Cerrell, managing director for the Gates Foundation in the presence of Bill Gates, chair and board member, Gates Foundation.Under the four-year funding agreement, the Gates Foundation will provide $1.8mn to HBKU. The grant will support pioneering research led by HBKU’s Qatar Environment and Energy Research Institute to develop animal feed products from crop residue, improving productivity of small-scale livestock producers.Reflecting the university’s strategic focus on circular agriculture in dry and arid regions, the new solution delivers a scalable process producing feed for less than $100 per ton. Besides supporting affordable, decentralised manufacturing, it also addresses food security constraints, encourages sustainable resource management, and reduces greenhouse gas emissions, while advancing agricultural efficiency.The purpose-driven collaboration brings together two renowned institutions committed to advancing global development and the common good. For HBKU and Qatar Foundation, it supports Qatar’s long-term resilience and societal prosperity, as well as their role as drivers for impact-driven innovation serving local, regional, and global needs. The HBKU patented technology already positions Qatar as a global leader in sustainable feed production.For the Gates Foundation, the agreement reinforces a shared ambition to support solutions that improve lives, particularly in regions facing acute climate and resource pressures.HBKU’s research directly contributes to building circular agriculture systems by reducing waste and maximising the value of existing resources. By integrating scientific research, technological innovation, and collaboration, the outcomes will address national priorities such as the sustainable approach to critical resources and food security systems. Its positive impact will also extend beyond Qatar, however, as lessons and technologies will be adaptable to farming across the Global South. This includes the Middle East and North Africa region, South Asia and sub-Saharan Africa.“Farmers are responsible for feeding communities, but they are working in the toughest conditions imaginable, so this is a vital project to support them in turning residue crops into quality animal feed. We hope that by working with farmers to develop this innovation, we will ensure more food is produced to feed people and in turn help build the resilience of the global food system,” said Cerrell.Dr Hasnah added: “We are pleased to collaborate with the Gates Foundation in advancing innovative solutions that support sustainable food systems and generate meaningful economic impact for Qatar, the wider region, and the Global South. This agreement marks a significant milestone for research led by a Qatari university and underscores Hamad Bin Khalifa University’s commitment to delivering tangible, positive outcomes through world-class research.”By uniting HBKU’s research capabilities with the Gates Foundation’s global development reach, the agreement is a decisive step toward food security and sustainable growth across some of the world’s most vulnerable regions. In the mid- to long-term, the model could positively shape land use, food trade, and public health policy, as well as future-facing investment decisions. 

Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) has launched the Qatar World Trade Organisation (WTO) Chair. The commencement of this initiative follows the selection earlier this year of the College of Law’s Dr Georgios Dimitropoulos, professor of law and associate dean for research, as chairholder.The launch was held at the Minaretein Building, Education City, under the theme Navigating Challenges and Opportunities in the Digital and Industrial Economy. The event underscores its commitment to shaping global debates on trade, digital transformation, and industrial policymaking.Welcome remarks were delivered by representatives from the WTO, envoys attached to the United Nations in Geneva and the university. Following that, His Excellency Dr Ahmed bin Mohammed al-Sayed, Minister of State for Foreign Trade Affairs, in his speech highlighted the numerous advantages of the WTO Chair for promoting collaborative research between policymakers and academia, consequently transforming the business ecosystem in Qatar.He also emphasised the importance of the timing of the announcement given recent developments in world trade and the importance of preserving the multilateral trading system. In addition, Sara Abdulla al-Sulaitin, director of the Case Management Office and the Taqadi System, Investment and Trade Court of Qatar, engaged in an insightful ‘Lunchtime Conversation’ chaired by Dr Susan L Karamanian, dean, College of Law, which featured questions by Dr Khalid al-Kuwari, lecturer College of Law.During the discussion, they explored challenges and opportunities affecting international commerce and the role of the court in supporting a stable, attractive investment environment especially through the digital technology offered by the court. Dean Karamanian, said: “We are proud to officially commence the WTO Chair activities in Qatar as these responsibilities closely align with HBKU's commitment to fostering meaningful research and education.Leveraging Qatar’s position as a global trade and logistics hub, we eagerly embrace the opportunity to play a role in strengthening academic capacity and creating opportunities for trade and influencing policies that benefit Qatar, the region and the international community.”The event also featured key panel discussions with top government officials alongside leading experts from Qatar, the region, and international community. Speakers explored the challenges and opportunities of the emerging digital and industrial economy, the role of international trade law, as well as updates in industrial policies and subsidies regulation as it affects economic law across regions and globally.

Qatar Islamic Bank (QIB) has successfully participated in the ‘BIG Quantum Hackathon Qatar 2025’, a national event organised by the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT). The event was hosted by Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), sponsored by the Ministry of Defence (MoD), and supported by knowledge partners QuantX and Boston Consulting Group (BCG).Bringing together major entities and leading organisations across key sectors, the hackathon represents an important milestone in advancing Qatar’s capabilities in quantum technologies and accelerating the country’s digital transformation journey.As part of the challenge structure, each participating organisation developed a real-world use case relevant to its industry. QIB’s Data Science & AI team mentored a group of students participating in a hackathon on a pioneering AI use case titled ‘Enhanced Retail Credit Risk Scoring using Quantum Machine Learning (QML)’.The team demonstrated the potential of quantum-based algorithms to enhance credit evaluation models, improve risk segmentation accuracy, and unlock more efficient and data-driven decision-making. Over the coming years, emerging quantum capabilities are expected to complement traditional modelling techniques.By integrating QML into their risk assessment pipelines, financial institutions will gain a competitive edge through more accurate, fair, and explainable credit decisions. Constantinos Constantinides, QIB Chief Strategy and Digital officer, said: “Exploring the potential of quantum technologies is a natural extension of QIB’s strategy to strengthen our digital and Artificial Intelligence capabilities.The BIG Quantum Hackathon enabled our teams to work closely with emerging quantum tools and evaluate their long-term relevance to financial services.” Held for the first time in Qatar, the BIG Quantum Hackathon introduced practical applications of quantum computing across finance, energy, telecom, aviation, and defence.The event enabled cross-sector collaboration, knowledge exchange, and hands-on experimentation with next-generation quantum platforms. It also supports Qatar’s vision to build a strong and sustainable technological ecosystem aligned with Qatar National Vision 2030.

A two-day conference on role of chemistry and chemical engineering in building a more sustainable future kicked off in Doha Sunday. Organised by Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) in collaboration with the American Chemical Society (ACS) and Qatar University (QU), the Innovations in Chemistry and Chemical Engineering for a Sustainable Future Conference brings together about 160 experts and specialists in the fields of chemistry, chemical engineering, and the oil, gas, and water sectors. The conference, the fourth of its kind, , showcasing innovative technologies, and highlighting the pioneering role of chemistry and chemical engineering in building a more sustainable future. It also promotes collaboration across disciplines and contributes to supporting research in Qatar within priority areas of the National Development Plan. In his speech at the conference, HE former Minister of Energy and Industry and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Doha University Dr Mohammed bin Saleh al-Sada, emphasised that sustainability is no longer an option, but rather a necessity imposed by global environmental challenges, underscoring the importance of innovation and scientific research in the fields of chemistry and chemical engineering to achieve balanced and sustainable development. HE Dr Al Sada noted that Qatar, known for its abundant natural gas resources and rapid economic development, is moving toward expanding its development horizons to include the rational management of natural resources and environmental protection, in line with the Qatar National Vision 2030, of which environmental development is a fundamental pillar. He explained that chemistry and chemical engineering represent a key focus in supporting sustainability through the development of innovative solutions in the fields of energy, water, industry, and materials science. He emphasised the country's commitment to promoting the use of clean technologies and improving production efficiency in line with its environmental responsibilities. Speaking on scientific research efforts at higher education institutions, such as Texas A&M University at Qatar, and the Qatar Environment and Energy Research Institute (QEERI), he pointed out that they contribute to the development of solar energy systems, carbon capture technologies, and eco-friendly water desalination, supporting the country's transition to a low-emission and more sustainable future. He also highlighted the importance of waste management in line with the principles of green chemistry, through recycling, the optimal use of resources, and pollution reduction, stressing that such efforts support the shift toward a circular economy that protects the environment and creates added value. In his opening remarks, the Conference Chair, Associate Dean for External Affairs and Head of the Division of Science at HBKU, Dr Hassan Said Bazzi, said that the conference provides a platform for students and researchers to showcase their expertise and ongoing projects in Qatar. This includes the real-world application of scientific innovation and the promotion of collaboration between academia and industry in support of national strategic goals and Qatar National Vision 2030. For his part, Vice-President for Research at HBKU Eyad Ahmad Masad, emphasised that the materials and processes currently under development form the foundation for future solutions. These innovations contribute to lowering emissions, improving energy efficiency, and enhancing the quality of life. He reiterated the university’s commitment to developing innovative solutions that support the sustainability of Qatar’s environment and resources. In turn, Chair of the Committee on International Activities (IAC) of the American Chemical Society (ACS), Dr Michael McGinnis, remarked that the conference serves as an exceptional platform for interaction between academics and practitioners.

Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) will host a conference exploring the global ethical implications of AI technologies.Taking place on September 28-29 at Qatar National Convention Centre, the event on the theme ‘AI Ethics: The Convergence of Technology and Diverse Moral Traditions’ will consider the impact of AI on culture, tradition, and values.The conference brings together academics, policy makers, tech industry experts, ethicists, and others from around the world to explore how can AI efficiently and ethically serve humanity.The participants will explore the intersection of foundational and cross-cultural ethical principles with socially disruptive technologies while upholding rich moral legacies, centuries-long scholarship, and diverse perspectives of both secular and religious moral traditions.By blending advanced technology with deep ethical inquiry, the conference also creates a space where technological breakthroughs are measured against values, and progress is guided by purpose.The experts will explore the critical intersection of AI and ethics through six focused thematic tracks, including healthcare, urban design, security, education, finance, and the future of the workplace, reflecting the most pressing contemporary challenges and opportunities. Through these diverse yet interconnected lenses, the conference aims to shape a more just and human-centred technological future.Dr Ahmad M Hasnah, president, HBKU, noted: “AI is reshaping every part of our lives, offering immense opportunities while raising urgent ethical questions. Our region’s strong religious foundations and rich heritage uniquely position us to actively contribute to the global dialogue on AI ethics and to offer humanity alternative ethical frameworks. Through this conference, Hamad Bin Khalifa University is bringing global voices together to ensure that AI serves humanity responsibly, guided by values rooted in fair moral traditions.”

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)

An emerging field of research, known as epigenetics, has become a focal point at Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), a member of Qatar Foundation, which is making significant strides in advancing this cutting-edge discipline. In alignment with its mission to drive transformative scientific research, HBKU is exploring how a combination of environmental, lifestyle, behavioural, and genetic factors interact to influence gene expression. Dr Nady El Hajj, an associate professor at the College of Health and Life Sciences at HBKU, said, “Epigenetics is the study of how external factors, such as diet, lifestyle, and environment, affect the way our genes function. “These changes help determine how our genotype – our genetic makeup – is expressed in our phenotype – our physical traits characteristics – impacting everything from disease development to the way we age,” he explained. Dr El Hajj and his team are studying the role of epigenetics in aging and longevity, focusing on how DNA methylation – the process by which a methyl group is added to DNA – influences the aging process. “We are using a tool called epigenetic clocks that measure DNA methylation at specific sites to predict both chronological and biological age,” said Dr El Hajj. “This allows us to assess not only someone’s biological age, but also how lifestyle factors, like diet and exercise, can impact their true biological age.” According to Dr El Hajj, the significance of studying biological age cannot be overstated. “Two individuals of the same chronological age may have very different biological ages,” he says. “For example, someone with a healthy lifestyle will have a younger biological age than someone with a poor diet and unhealthy habits.” Dr El Hajj’s work extends to the detection of diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease through epigenetic biomarkers. As he explains: “Epigenetic changes can occur early in disease progression, sometimes even before symptoms manifest, allowing for timely intervention.” In addition to these advancements, Dr El Hajj and his team are investigating the impact of epigenetics on mental health, particularly how traumatic experiences can leave an imprint on the epigenome. “Epigenetic modifications have been shown to affect genes linked to mental health conditions, such as post-traumatic stress disorder,” he said. “People who experience trauma, whether from war or other life events, can pass on epigenetic changes that influence their mental health. This raises important questions about the potential intergenerational impact of trauma.” HBKU is also exploring how these epigenetic changes may be inherited across generations. “There is evidence that certain epigenetic modifications, especially those caused by environmental stressors, can be passed down from parents to their children,” says Dr El Hajj. “However, it is important to understand that not all epigenetic changes are inherited. During fertilisation, most epigenetic patterns are reprogrammed, but some can escape this reprogramming and be transmitted to offspring."