Qatar University (QU) will organize the Third Youth Research Forum 2020 on 11-12 March 2020 entitled “Identity and Cultural Tourism: Towards a Culture of Sustainable Legacy.”
This forum aims to create research material covering the knowledge and cultural concerns of young people. In addition, it aims to create a database on youth activities that have distinct research capabilities in the field of specialized and interdisciplinary studies, and to explore the research capabilities of young people in a specific field linked to FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ events and associated cultural, sports, environmental and urban activities.
The forum also has an objective of highlighting the roles played by institutions, such as the National Museum of Qatar and Katara – Cultural Village Foundation, in promoting the cultural identity in Qatar. In addition, one of its objectives is integrating knowledge among young people, preparing them to do their duties, and taking the initiative towards positive participation in maximizing the benefits of the World Cup. It is also aiming to open channels of communication for research and knowledge between the university and community institutions, especially those that play a key role in the World Cup.
One of the main targets of this forum is to create and open channels of communication between young researchers and community institutions organizing the World Cup. Moreover, it aims to promote a culture of scientific research and link it to important historical events, and promote cultural tourism and build a knowledge society. One of the most important targets is that it is aiming to introduce Qatari heritage in all its forms in a scientific and accurate manner according to the specifications of the UNESCO Authority, such as with names, food, cities, mosques and museums.
QU Vice President for Research & Graduate Studies Professor Mariam Al-Maadeed commented saying this forum is a part of the University's strategy aimed at developing scientific research among young people, particularly, the aspects related to identity studies, heritage and cultural communication. She adds that the forum plans to achieve several cognitive, cultural, and community purposes where the forum represents an opportunity for young people to serve the needs of society in the next crucial phases of development, especially as the state prepares to host the World Cup in 2022.
Prof. Mariam emphasized that youth will have a leading role in maximizing the benefit of this occasion by getting involved in carrying out the research and exploratory duties leading up to this international event. This includes highlighting the national identity and the culture of Qatar and its people, the introduction of its ancient heritage and its modern renaissance and the promotion of cultural tourism that can be enjoyed by the tourist and visitor to Qatar in the next stage.
Participation is open for postgraduate and undergraduate student research in this forum. The student can submit his or her research alone or as a group of students (no more than 6 students) participating in one research.
Students from multiple disciplines can participate in a single research team. The student or group of students can apply to participate in the forum even if it is a completed research or has participated in another scientific event provided it fits the topics of the forum.
The forum's organizing committee has selected the theme and topics, which young people can research and apply to participate in. The topics are: (1) World Cup facilities and the sustainability of Qatar's heritage in architecture, arts and culture; (2) The role of museums in promoting cultural identity; (3) Economy and culture tourism; (4) Heritage cities and their role in culture tourism; (5) Symbols and components of identity; (6) Collecting and documenting parts of the culture heritage; (7) Challenges of identity and globalization; (8) Medicine, pharmacology and community health.
For further details and information on the Third Youth Research Forum 2020, please send your inquiries by email to yfr@qu.edu.qa or, you can follow the Research and Graduate Studies Sector at Qatar University on @QUResearch.