Doha: Higher Education Director of Strategy and Partnership at Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development (QF) Dr. Lolwa Ahmed Al Naemi affirmed that QF has played a pioneering role in supporting and developing the higher education system in Qatar and the region, as it has adopted since its establishment a strategic approach that enhances innovation and academic excellence, based on its realization that investment in education is the cornerstone for building a sustainable future.
According to Qatar News Agency, Al Naemi pointed out that in 1998, QF launched a transformative model in higher education through a partnership with Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts Qatar (VCUarts Qatar), which resulted in the establishment of the first branch of an international university in Education City. This step came as an embodiment of the vision of HH Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of the Board of Directors of QF, based on the fact that education is the most important investment in the future of Qatar.
She highlighted that, at that time, establishing high-quality educational institutions in Doha and the region was unprecedented, as was attracting branch campuses of world-class universities to Qatar. Despite the challenges and doubts surrounding this ambitious vision, QF succeeded in laying the foundations for a higher education system by opening the Shaqab College of Design Arts in 1998, which welcomed its first class of only 24 students. In 2001, this college officially became VCUarts Qatar, and the following decade saw the opening of branches of six other world-class universities in Doha.
Al Naemi affirmed that the goal was not merely to attract international universities, but to establish an integrated educational system that contributes to bringing about a fundamental change in the higher education sector through experimenting with new and innovative educational methods. This approach has made QF a leading model to be emulated at the regional and global levels.
She pointed out that the Foundation today hosts seven branches of international universities under its umbrella, including Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), which enhances academic standards in Qatar and establishes a culture of academic excellence. Through these partnerships, QF succeeded in attracting global talents and providing high-level educational opportunities for students, while continuing its role in supporting the labor market and contributing to social and economic development in Qatar. It also plays an active role in achieving Qatar National Vision 2030 (QNV 2030) and enhancing its impact locally, regionally, and globally.
She explained that QF succeeded in building an integrated educational system that includes eight universities, six colleges of HBKU, 65 academic programs, five joint programs, and more than 25 basic subjects shared between the universities. The number of academic degrees awarded so far has exceeded 10,000.
She added that the institutional integration in Education City today reflects an integrated academic research model that brings together international universities, research and innovation centers, and arts and culture centers, providing a comprehensive educational experience for students. They can enroll in courses from various universities, participate in innovative research projects, engage in entrepreneurship programs, and interact with cultural and community initiatives, creating an educational environment that goes beyond the boundaries of traditional classrooms.
She said that this approach, known as "institutional integration," enhances cooperation between various institutions and academic centers and links diverse fields of knowledge, which contributes to developing an innovative generation capable of adapting to complex challenges.
Al Naemi emphasized that true education flourishes in discipline, indicating that QF became a testament to it, as it has attracted global talent and provided Qatari students with the opportunity to access world-class education in their country. In addition to the contribution of its universities to serving the community, through community events, professional development programs, and dialogue and discussion forums, these efforts enhance the impact of these partnerships at the local, regional, and global levels.
Dr. Lolwa Ahmed Al Naemi concluded her statement to QNA by emphasizing that one of their greatest achievements is the environment they have created, where knowledge, creativity, and innovation converge to address global challenges. She pointed out that this dynamic space fosters collaboration and idea development, and as higher education evolves, their goal remains to uphold the foundation's vision, build a better future for Qatar, and support a knowledge-based economy while nurturing graduates with strong values, leadership, and social responsibility.