Qatar University (QU) celebrates the launch of the seventh round of “Qatar Scientists in Biological Diversity,” a program which aims to attract both male and female Qataris to the field of health, science and scientific research. The project supports the Qatar National Vision 2030, as it reflects the recommendations of His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, Emir of the State of Qatar, who said, “We require diligence, creativity, independent thinking, constructive initiatives and interest in academic achievement in all disciplines.”
As stated by Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser in her speech at the opening of Sidra Medical Center on 12 November 2018, “Those familiar with Qatar, its leadership and its people know that we fully grasp the comprehensive meaning of development. We have and continue to work in concerted efforts to achieve progress in all areas, positioning Qatar at the vanguard of a future only visionaries can reach…These efforts are at the core of what I call “professional security,” which is an important requirement for the country’s national security. In other words, the absence of qualified workers in any field or sector could majorly halt the country’s vital operations and duties at times of crises.”
The program saw the participation 182 students this year and a total of 474 students since its establishment in 2013. In the closing ceremony, Dr. Egon Toft, Vice President for Medical and Health Sciences and Dean of the College of Medicine at Qatar University honored the female group, while Dr. Mariam Al-Ali Al-Maadeed, Vice President for Research and Graduate Studies, Ali bin Khatem Al Mehshadi, Chairman of Qatar Society of Al Gannas and President of Marmi Festival, honored the males in the presence of Dr. Hassan Al-Derham, President of QU.
Dr. Asma Al Thani, Founding Dean of the College of Health Sciences and Director of Biomedical Research Center said every year the program sees a noticeable increase of about 30% in the number of students and a 95% increase in the participation rate across all schools in Qatar. In addition, Dr. Asma discussed the programs plans to expand, including on a global scale, where it plans to support people with special needs, refugees and also plans to contribute to science in third world countries in Africa.
Ali bin Khatem Al Mehshadi adds in his speech that the project is one of the most important focus of the partnership between Qatar Society of Al Gannas and QU, in cooperation with the Ministry of Education and Higher Education and Ministry of Interior. This is because the program creates a scientifically conscious generation of Qataris, ready to serve their country, environment and heritage.
“Qatar Scientists in Biological Diversity” is an educational program offered at the Biomedical Research Center at Qatar University in collaboration with various business partners including: Al-Gannas Qatari Society at Katara Cultural Village, The Ministry of Interiors Forensic Lab Department, Sidra Medical and Research Center, The Ministry of Education and Higher Education, Ministry of Health and Qatar Biobank for Medical Research as the official sponsor, as well as many other national partners all with the goal of creating a consciences, responsible generation in the fields of health, science and research.