tag

Qatar Foundation (QF) for Education, Science and Community Development Thursday welcomed high-level international delegations, including spouse of the President of Costa Rica Signe Zeicate; spouse of the President of Panama Maricel Cohen de Mulino; and Minister of Education of Senegal Serigne Mbaye Thiam. The visits, which included stops at Warif Academy, Awsaj Academy, Renad Academy, and Academyati, aimed to explore QF’s specialised and inclusive pre-university education models. The delegations were introduced to the unique academic programmes offered by each school, gaining insights into innovative teaching approaches, academic and behavioural support systems, and specialised services tailored to meet diverse student needs. School administrators presented their educational missions and philosophies, highlighting their roles in promoting inclusive education, fostering innovation, and developing students’ skills within a comprehensive learning ecosystem. The visiting dignitaries expressed their appreciation for the efforts undertaken by QF’s schools and emphasised the importance of international collaboration in advancing specialised education. These visits underscore the growing global interest in Qatar’s pioneering educational experiences, with QF’s models serving as a global reference for building inclusive and sustainable learning environments. 

Students at Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar (WCM-Q) have launched the college’s very first student-led magazine.The Mawj Science Magazine was founded to provide a voice for the student body, foster a spirit of enquiry and scientific interest among students, and share news of groundbreaking innovation in biomedical science and education, a statement said.The inaugural edition of Mawj, which means 'wave' in Arabic, features dozens of articles written by WCM-Q students on a wide range of topics, including the mental health of medical professionals, paediatric epilepsy, how technological advances are redefining medical education, the link between gut-brain health and autism, student research projects investigating the effectiveness of traditional remedies, and accounts of student contributions to medical conferences, among other stories. The online magazine also features articles by WCM-Q faculty.Second-year medical student Ubaida al-Aani is the founder and editor-in-chief of Mawj. Student contributors Sama Ayoub, Noor Numan, Amani Benamor, Batoul Arabi, Sama al-Saffar, and Nisarga Natesha Kumuda penned articles for the launch edition.Faculty member Christine Gaskell, senior teaching specialist in pre-medical education and a PhD student, contributed an article on her research, which explores the biological nexus between obesity and cancer through lifestyle and microbiome pathways.Dr Javaid Sheikh, dean of WCM-Q, hoped that Mawj will be a great success and provide an extremely valuable platform for collaboration among the thriving community of student researchers, supporting their ambitions to pursue excellence in medicine by continuously advancing the boundaries of research in clinical care, biomedical research and medical education. Mawj Science Magazine can be read at https://mawjmagazine.org/ 

Stars of Science, an initiative hosted at Qatar Science and Technology Park (QSTP), a member of Qatar Foundation, is marking its 17th season, celebrating its evolution from a televised competition into a leading scientific and creative movement that is helping shape the region's innovation ecosystem.Since its launch in 2009, the initiative has supported the development of 55 innovative projects and partnered with hundreds of educational institutions, inspiring thousands of young people to pursue their ideas. Its alumni now play an active role in mentoring new participants, reinforcing the sustainability of the region's innovation cycle.To date, 175 graduates from 18 Arab countries have produced impactful innovations in health technology, artificial intelligence, sustainability, and education.The winner of Season 17, Dr. Laid Dardabou of Algeria, exemplifies the program's legacy. His innovation, ViDa -- a smartwatch system that estimates Vitamin D levels and helps prevent related mental health symptoms -- secured top public votes and earned the judges' praise for its integration of biotechnology and emotional well-being.

University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST) has inaugurated the Career Fair 2025, welcoming participation from over 95 local and international companies representing key industries across Qatar and beyond. The two-day event, organised by the Student Central Services Department, provided over 2,450 opportunities for full-time and part-time employment, sponsorships, internships, and co-operative training. The event has been inaugurated by President of UDST, Dr Salem Al-Naemi, in the presence of HE Chairman of UDST’s Board of Trustees, Dr Mohammed Saleh al-Sada; and Vice-Chair of UDST’s Board of Trustees and Managing Director and CEO of Qatar Petrochemical Company (Qapco), Dr Mohammed Yousef al-Mulla; and attended by UDST students, alumni, and high school students exploring their future career paths. The fair serves as one of UDST’s flagship annual events, offering students and graduates a direct gateway to industry leaders, while helping employers connect with highly skilled and job-ready talent. Throughout the event, attendees engaged in live interviews, networking sessions, and career development activities, reflecting UDST’s applied learning approach that bridges education with real-world experience. In line with its commitment to sustainability, UDST ensured the event remained entirely paperless, with students submitting their CVs and applications through the university’s digital application system. This initiative highlights UDST’s ongoing dedication to adopting eco-friendly and innovative event practices that align with Qatar National Vision 2030’s sustainability goals. Dr Al-Naemi said: “Career Fair represents a pivotal milestone in the university’s ongoing efforts to empower its students and alumni, preparing them for active participation in the job market. Guided by our mission of applied education, we are committed to building strong partnerships with public and private sector institutions, ensuring that our graduates are well-equipped to contribute to a national economy driven by knowledge and innovation”. With participation from sectors such as energy, construction, banking, finance, healthcare, IT, and public services, the event demonstrated UDST’s growing influence in linking education to real-world careers.

Season 17 of Qatar Foundation’s (QF) Stars of Science concluded with Laid Dardabou, a bright scientific mind from Algeria, crowned the Top Arab Innovator. In a moment of celebration, Khalid Aljumaily announced Dardabou’s victory with ‘ViDa’, a smartwatch-integrated system that estimates Vitamin D levels and helps users take preventive action before mental health symptoms arise. Dardabou’s invention impressed judges for its potential to blend biotechnology with emotional well-being, addressing a global challenge through accessible, everyday technology. Upon being named the winner, Dardabou said: “This win is deeply personal. It began with someone I love - and it became my mission to make sure others never feel helpless in the same way. Stars of Science gave me the courage to believe that compassion and science together can save lives. This award isn’t the end, it’s a beginning.” Second place was awarded to Razan Salem Bahabri, from Saudi Arabia, for her project ‘Teleab’, a wearable rehabilitation gaming system that turns physical therapy into an interactive, data-driven experience. Bahabri’s innovation empowers patients to recover through play while enabling doctors to monitor progress remotely. Her project represents a leap forward in digital health, offering a compassionate and accessible solution for home-based recovery. Qatar Science & Technology Park (QSTP) president Rama Chakaki congratulated the finalists, saying: “Each of this season’s innovators has shown us the true power of purpose-driven science. Their ideas merge empathy, creativity, and impact - and that’s exactly the kind of innovation the world needs right now. At QSTP, we’re proud to support Stars of Science as it continues to transform ideas into solutions that can improve lives, inspire the next generation, and strengthen the region’s innovation ecosystem.”

After weeks of intense competition, Stars of Science has announced its top three finalists for Season 17, each driven by a shared mission: using innovation to solve real-world problems. The finalists — Saudi Arabia's Razan Salem Bahabri, Algeria's Laid Dardabou, and Jordan's Mohammad AlShaikh Saleh — will now compete for the title of Top Arab Innovator, which will be decided by jury deliberation and public voting. The winner and runner-up will share the Grand Prize. Qatar Foundation invited the public to cast their votes, as public voting is now open on "www.starsofscience.com" and will close on 23 October, at 6 PM Doha time. Among the finalists is Razan Salem Bahabri, a Saudi completing her PhD in biomedical engineering, whose invention uses wearable gaming systems to support stroke patients in their rehabilitation journey. Her innovation merges therapy and technology to make recovery more interactive and accessible. "I wanted to prove that science can be personalized and empowering," said Bahabri. "Too often, rehabilitation feels clinical and detached. My goal is to bring empathy back into recovery — where patients are not just treated, but truly engaged." Also vying for the top prize is Laid Dardabou from Algeria, who holds a PhD in Animal Nutrition and Physiology, who created a smartwatch-based system that tracks biomarkers such as vitamin D and serotonin to detect early signs of depression and anxiety. Motivated by a deeply personal story, Dardabou's invention could change how mental health is monitored worldwide. "This project began as a promise," he said. "Someone close to me suffered from undiagnosed depression caused by a vitamin D deficiency. I wanted to ensure others never go through that same experience. Stars of Science gave me the tools to transform that promise into innovation." Completing the trio is Mohammad AlShaikh Saleh, a Jordanian Postdoctoral Research Fellow with a PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering, who has developed an AI-powered device that monitors electric vehicle (EV) battery health, reducing costs, waste, and emissions. His invention combines artificial intelligence with physics-based models to deliver accurate, transparent predictions, helping advance global sustainability goals. "I wanted my research to make a tangible difference," said Saleh. "My device supports the shift toward electric mobility by building trust in EV technology and aligning with sustainability visions across the Arab region." Throughout Stars of Science Season 17, the finalists have transformed their ideas into working prototypes through a rigorous process of testing, mentorship, and collaboration. Supported and backed by the Qatar Science and Technology Park (QSTP) as ground facilitator and incubator, a panel of world-class experts and an expansive alumni network, they've refined their innovations into solutions capable of making a real impact.

The University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST) announced that its president, Dr Salem Al-Naemi, has been awarded the honorary title of ‘International Ambassador for Social Responsibility’ by the Regional Network for Social Responsibility.The recognition celebrates Dr Al-Naemi’s exceptional and longstanding contributions to social responsibility and sustainable development, both nationally and across the Arab region, a statement said. The Regional Network for Social Responsibility is a professional non-profit organisation with global memberships in leading international institutions such as the UN Global Compact, the International Rehabilitation Organisation, and the International Union for Social Responsibility.Dr Al-Naemi was selected for the honour in recognition of his impactful leadership in embedding social responsibility principles within every institution he has served, it was explained.“This recognition is a reflection of the collective effort at UDST to champion social responsibility and sustainability,” Dr Al-Naemi said. “As educators and leaders, it is our duty to integrate these values into our academic and community initiatives, inspiring others to contribute to the well-being and development of society,” he added.During the ceremony in Doha, Prof Dr Ali al-Ibrahim, vice-president of the Regional Network for Social Responsibility stated that Dr Al-Naemi embodies the model of an academic leader who believes that education is not merely the transfer of knowledge, but a mission to build individuals, advance communities, and strengthen values.“Under his leadership, the University of Doha for Science and Technology has become a beacon of innovation, integrating education, social responsibility, and sustainability. Its initiatives have significantly contributed to national development, youth empowerment, and capacity building in alignment with Qatar National Vision 2030.”The recognition is part of the Network’s International Ambassadors for Social Responsibility programme, launched in 2014 to honour distinguished figures from around the world who have demonstrated outstanding commitment to advancing social responsibility.With this accolade, Dr Al-Naemi joins a select group of Arab and international leaders recognised for their influence, dedication, and leadership in promoting ethical, inclusive, and sustainable practices at both the national and global levels, the statement added.

The fourth session of the Science Cafe series, a collaborative initiative between Msheireb Museums and Sidra Medicine, was held at Bin Jelmood House where over 120 participants attended. Centered on the theme "Healthy Qatar: Addressing Lifestyle-Related Health Concerns," the event gathered healthcare specialists, wellness practitioners, and community members to discuss preventive care and holistic well-being. The session provided a comprehensive platform to examine how simple, everyday lifestyle changes can yield long-term benefits for individuals, families, and the Qatari society at large. Held at Bin Jelmood House — a museum dedicated to human perseverance and social development, the event continued the Science Cafe's mission of bridging scientific knowledge with public understanding. The fourth Science Cafe session structured its discussions about several critical themes in preventive healthcare: A National Snapshot of the current health trends in Qatar, The Wellness Triad of nutrition, exercise, and mental well-being, and Community Voices and Support Systems that emphasised the importance of local initiatives in shaping healthier lifestyles. Additional segments focused on Empowering Families Through Education and Action and A Shared Vision for a Healthier Qatar, underscoring the collective responsibility across communities and institutions. Dr. Sahar Da'as, Research Manager at Sidra Medicine and lead of the Science Cafe initiative, stressed the personal significance of the event: "As both a researcher and a mother, I recognize that sustainable health change begins not in clinics or laboratories, but in our homes and communities. Our goal in every Science Cafe session is to translate complex scientific concepts into actionable insights that can improve the health and wellness of every family in Qatar. This session reminds us that prevention is not only about medical advice, but also about choices made in homes, schools, and workplaces. Abdulla Al Naama, General Manager of Msheireb Museums, highlighted how the partnership with Sidra Medicine supports broader cultural and social goals: "These sessions encourage dialogue on topics that directly affect people's lives, and we are proud to see the community actively engaging with science in this setting. Msheireb Museums functions as a hub for cultural and educational discourse. Hosting the Science Cafe series aligns perfectly with our mission to inspire social change. The event featured contributions from invited speakers, including Dr. Shaza Elhassan, Pediatrics Consultant at Children & Young People's Services, Sidra Medicine; Dr. Aisha Al-Ahmadi, Assistant Professor of Clinical Mental Health and Counseling Psychology at Qatar University; Rachel Rahme, journalist, Social Media Personality, and Health and Lifestyle Influencer, ; Iman Alazwani, Founder of the 5AM Club and Research Specialist at Sidra Medicine; and Ikhlas Ahmed, Engagement Specialist at Qatar National Library. The speakers shared their expertise and practical guidance with participants, where they discussed diverse perspectives on health, wellbeing, and community engagement. Meanwhile, the session was moderated by Dr. Omar Abdelsattar, Sustainability Strategist and Programme Leader at the Qatar Research, Development and Innovation (QRDI) Council. In addition to the talks, the event also featured booth exhibitors including Qatar National Library, OrangeTheory, the 5AM Club, and Zest Activewear. Launched in 2024, Science Cafe is a continuing collaboration between Msheireb Museums and Sidra Medicine designed to encourage public engagement with scientific issues that affect society. The 2025 series spans diverse topics, from community health and comprehensive care to rare genetic conditions, with each session offering accessible discussions led by experts.

Stars of Science, Qatar Foundation’s (QF) flagship edutainment programme will launch its Season 17 on September 12, introducing a lineup of innovators and digital creators, joining long-time presenter, Khalid Aljumaily. Joining the jury this season is Dr Bothaina al-Mulla, a Qatari Ob-Gyn physician at Sidra Medicine and Hamad Medical Corporation, as well as a motivational speaker. “Being invited to join the jury of a show I’ve long admired was an honour,” said Dr al-Mulla. “What struck me most this season is the calibre of the contestants. As a medical professional, it is exciting to see so many bright minds tackling real-world challenges with purpose and precision.” The participants’ journey unfolds at Qatar Science & Technology Park (QSTP), a member of QF a place designed not just for invention, but for scale and substance — where science meets entrepreneurship to tackle real-world challenges and turn ideas into lasting impact. Seven innovators from across the Arab world will develop and refine their ideas in the Stars of Science studios at QSTP. Over the course of 12 weeks, they will receive expert mentorship and access to resources as they set their sights on the title of Top Arab Innovator. Each innovator will play a role in contributing to QSTP’s vision of creating a future where technology and science positively impact humanity and the natural world.

The Qatar Research, Development and Innovation (QRDI) Council, in co-operation with the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO), the Intellectual Property Protection Department at the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Qatar Development Bank (QDB), and Qatar Science and Technology Park (QSTP), has "successfully concluded" the WIPO Intellectual Property Management Clinic: Leveraging IP for Business Growth and Globalisation.The two-day programme, held in Doha, brought together experts, business leaders, and entrepreneurs to strengthen the role of intellectual property (IP) in advancing innovation, competitiveness, and international expansion for Qatari enterprises.The opening session featured remarks from senior representatives of MoCI, QRDI Council, QSTP, QDB, and Guy Pessach, Director of the IP for Business Division at WIPO. The first day of the programme addressed the growing importance of intangible assets such as innovation, branding, and proprietary knowledge as key drivers of business growth.Participants gained insights into how patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets can be used strategically to capture value, while case studies from sectors including food and beverages and the creative industries demonstrated practical applications of IP for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).Panel discussions explored the challenges and opportunities facing Qatari SMEs in protecting and managing their intellectual property both locally and internationally. Experts provided guidance on avoiding common pitfalls, developing effective IP strategies, and safeguarding digital assets in an increasingly online economy.The agenda also included interactive roundtables where participants developed preliminary IP roadmaps tailored to their businesses, ensuring alignment between IP decisions and long-term growth objectives.The second day saw selected companies take part in one-on-one deep-dive diagnosis and strategy sessions with WIPO experts and representatives from QRDI Council, MoCI, QDB, and QSTP.These private consultations enabled enterprises to refine their IP portfolios, align protection strategies with business goals, and explore monetisation opportunities through licensing, franchising, and partnerships.The successful completion of the Intellectual Property Management Clinic highlights QRDI Council’s ongoing commitment to building a strong innovation ecosystem in Qatar.By equipping local businesses with the tools to harness and protect their intellectual property, QRDI Council continues to drive national efforts to position Qatar as a regional and global hub for research, development, and innovation.

The Qatar Science & Technology Park (QSTP), a member of Qatar Foundation, has wrapped up Creative Labs, a two-week, studio-based training programme where more than 30 students turned their ideas into working prototypes. Hosted at the QSTP and Qatar Scientific Club (QSC), the programme attracted more than 160 applications. By the end of the programme, participants had developed 17 prototypes after an intensive journey through hands-on innovation, design thinking, and technology integration. Teams developed inclusive health wearables, designed playful furniture for the elderly, reimagined single-use event items with biodegradable alternatives such as mycelium and potato starch, and built games that spark conversations about social issues. Each project combined social purpose with emerging technology, encouraging participants to explore problems from fresh angles and to design solutions with impact. Developed with NuVuX, a global leader in creative education, impacting more than 13,000 students and 1,850 teachers through their design-based practices, and delivered in partnership with the QSC and the Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MoEHE), Creative Labs brought high school and university students, educators, mentors, and industry partners together under one roof. “Creative Labs proves what is possible when curiosity and purpose come together,” QSTP Innovation and Entrepreneurship director Hayfa al-Abdulla said. “In our studios, educators and students are not just learning – they are inventing, prototyping, and building solutions the world needs, backed by Qatar’s leading innovation partners.” “The QSTP, through programmes like these, is shaping a generation of impact-driven innovators who will redefine industries, drive new ventures, and disrupt markets,” she said. “We take pride in our collaboration with the QSTP through the Creative Labs programme, empowering students and innovative educators,” said QSC deputy executive director Abdulrahman Saleh Khamis. “By opening our fully equipped and advanced laboratories and workshops to participants, we aim to support the development of promising prototypes and innovations.” “This partnership reflects our shared commitment to fostering research, innovation, and advancing Qatar’s knowledge-based economy,” he said. Participants left with practical solutions and the skills to apply them. The ideas developed hold promise to impact community, meet human purpose, and reinforce the QSTP’s role as a global tech hub, a statement added.