Qatar University (QU) and Shell Qatar have partnered to launch a student entrepreneurship development program called the Shell Intilaaqah-Qatar Program in partnership between QU and Qatar Shell, with the first cohort starting today.
The Shell Intilaaqah-Qatar program is designed to ignite the entrepreneurial spirit in Qatari youth, equipping them with the necessary skills, mindset, and confidence to establish and manage successful businesses. The program will provide students with a comprehensive range of business and soft skills and will connect them with supportive networks within the market.
At the opening ceremony, Rob Maxwell, Senior Vice President, and Managing Director of Qatar Shell, expressed his enthusiasm about availing the program to QU students, “Partnering with QU on the Shell Intilaaqah program presents an exciting opportunity to nurture local talent and bolster Qatar's social and economic growth".
Shell Intilaaqah in Qatar adopts a broad definition of entrepreneurship that goes beyond the creation of startups. It encompasses various value-creating activities in different domains, including existing organizations (intrapreneurship), communities, and environments (social entrepreneurship), as well as personal growth and development.
The program's focus on cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset—the foundation for all entrepreneurial endeavors—complements the current offerings of entrepreneurship training programs in Qatar. It is also aligned with the Qatar National Vision 2030, enhancing citizens' abilities to contribute to the nation's social and economic goals.
Participants will receive tailored advisory services and coaching from business experts to help them overcome challenges faced in the local business environment.
Dr. Omar Al-Ansari, President of QU, stated, “At QU, we firmly believe that empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs is the key to driving innovation and sustainable economic growth for Qatar. Our collaboration with Shell Qatar on this significant initiative is a testament to our commitment to fostering entrepreneurial talent within our university."
The first round of the program will commence this February and will last eight weeks. At the pilot stage, the program is open to QU students. The program is expected to host two intakes of students each year, admitting approximately 150 participants in the first year. The Center for Entrepreneurship and Organizational Excellence (CEOE) at the College of Business and Economics is acting as the local implementing partner for the program.
Dr. Rana Sobh, Dean of the College of Business and Economics at QU, stated, “Our partnership with Shell Qatar is more than just a collaboration—it is a commitment to unlocking the potential of our students, equipping them with the skills, mindset, and opportunities to transform ideas into impactful ventures that drive Qatar's economic and societal progress."