Qatar University (QU)'s College of Engineering recently hosted a STEM Day event, giving high school students the chance to experience the exciting world of civil engineering. The Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering organized the event with the aim of igniting interest in scientific fields, especially civil engineering, among Qatari youth. It offered students hands-on experiences that could inspire them to consider civil engineering as a career path, showcasing the many ways engineers shape our world.
The event offers students the opportunity to engage with various aspects of civil engineering through hands-on experiences and educational competitions in areas such as structural engineering, environmental engineering, geotechnical engineering, surveying, transportation engineering, and construction management.
Speaking about the event, Dr. Khalid Kamal Naji, Dean of the College of Engineering at QU, emphasized the critical role that STEM education plays in shaping the future of Qatar's workforce and its alignment with the nation's strategic goals. He said, “This event is an essential part of our commitment to fostering a knowledge-based economy, which is a key pillar of Qatar National Vision 2030. By engaging young students in STEM activities, we are preparing them to be the innovators, engineers, and problem solvers that our country needs to drive sustainable development across various sectors, particularly in infrastructure and technology."
Prof. Alaa Al-Hawari, Head of the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, highlighted the importance of the event in providing students with a unique opportunity to explore different engineering disciplines, especially civil engineering. He noted that students will participate in practical experiences, including designing resilient buildings and bridges capable of withstanding earthquakes, developing environmental systems that help conserve the environment and provide clean drinking water, studying soil properties and their impact on construction projects, and learning how to accurately measure and analyze land and space for precise engineering projects.
Prof. Al-Hawari further explained that the event aims to foster innovation and problem-solving, two critical skills that future engineers will need. These practical activities not only introduce students to the nature of engineering work but also help guide them in making informed decisions about their educational and professional futures in the field of engineering.
This event is part of the College of Engineering's broader efforts to promote education and scientific awareness among young students, in alignment with Qatar National Vision 2030. The college aims to support the development of future leaders in engineering by contributing to the nation's economic diversification and sustainable development goals.