All Rights Reserved - QU 2011 http://www.qu.edu.qa/images/QU_logo_WHT.gif Wed, 22 Feb 2012 13:35:12 +0300 en-us http://www.qu.edu.qa/ar/offices/er/media/view_release.php?id=918Wed, 22 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +0300Will address urbanism and development in Qatar and the GulfQU Professor of Urbanism, Architecture and Planning Theories Ali Alraouf will present as keynote speaker at the upcoming international conference on “Realigning Power Geometrics in the Arab World” at Leipzig University on February 24-26.    Prof Alraouf is the only academic expert from GCC universities and research centers to be selected for the event.   Prof Alraouf will analyze the experience of Qatar and Gulf states’ development and urbanism in the light of the Arab Spring in his paper entitled “An Emerging Urbanity in Knowledge Economy Paradigm – The Case of Doha, Qatar”.   It will shed some light on the paradigm shift from  an industrial economy to one based on knowledge and creativity,  and will illustrate the major principles of creative cities and their urban development.   Back in Doha, on February 28. Prof Alraouf will discuss contemporary architecture and urbanism in Qatar in a lecture entitled “Pearls, Harrods and FIFA:  (De)-constructing Future Utopia, The Narrative of Doha, Qatar” at Virginia Commonwealth University Qatar (VCUQ).   The lecture will focus on Doha as an emerging knowledge and creative city and examine its elaborate attempt to construct a new contemporary identity within the knowledge-based urban development paradigm. http://www.qu.edu.qa/ar/offices/er/media/view_release.php?id=919Wed, 22 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +0300Participated in journalism study tour program Mass communication students at the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) Aisha Ali Al Khulaifi, Alya Ibrahim Al Basti, Aisha Ali Al Jassim, Reem Rashid Al Kuwari, Maha Hussam Al Kharaz, Maram  Majdy Hussien, Laila Murad Al-Ghoul and lecturer in the  CAS Department of English Literature and Linguistics  Iglal Ahmed recently returned from a successful study trip to The Netherlands and Belgium. The group visited various key places and  institutions such as the European Parliament,  European Union (EU), Peace Palace,  Namega City,  Nijemegen, Holland’s oldest city,  Institute of Sound and Vision, the country’s largest TV and audio archive,  and Rotterdam Port. In The Netherlands, at the Peace Palace, the students toured  the Small Hall of Justice and the Japanese Room and  in Nijemegen, visited the primary school which in 1944 was the scene of a German massacre of over 50 school children, and where a commemorative swing was built as a monument. The group also participated in discussions at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on the Dutch policy in the MENA Region. Following the train trip to Belgium, the students visited the EU headquarters  in Brussels and  benefitted from a lecture and presentation about the organization.  They also toured the European Parliament.   The students had the opportunity to meet with AlJazeera’s Belgium correspondent Labib Fahmi who dispensed valuable advice on journalism and future possible careers.  They also visited the famous Belgian chocolate houses.   During the program, the students interacted with journalism students and took part in extensive in-class sessions and workshops at Utrecht University in The Netherlands on production, editing, publishing, and social media in relation to PR and strategic communication.   At the closing session of the trip program, the students delivered a presentation on their experience to Qatar’s Ambassador  to The Netherlands H.E. Mr. Hamad Ali Jaber Al Hanzab.   Part of the trip program was the production of a shared online blog forum in which the students presented and shared their experiences, views, stories and photos.   Commenting on the trip, student Maha Al Kharaz  said: “This was a golden opportunity for us as we learned so much about journalism, interacting with people from different cultures, and most importantly, we learned about ourselves.  This trip helped us a lot in our personal and academic development and I strongly encourage my colleagues to take advantage of such amazing opportunities in order to help them develop and grow”.    Her comments were echoed by Alya Al-Basti:  “The trip was a new start for me personally as I gained so much and learned about responsibility, creativity, and valuable tools about journalism that I can apply to my own studies.  As aspiring journalists, we are grateful for the opportunity and hope that more trips of this nature can be organized so other students can have this experience”.   Head Department of Mass Communication Dr Mahmoud Galander said: “The journalism  trip is part of the department's plan to expose them to the world of journalism worldwide.  It included various academic and professional activities related to journalism and they will be reporting on these activities upon their return.  Such trips serve to give our students an international perspective and an opportunity to learn about all areas of media in various countries”.  http://www.qu.edu.qa/ar/offices/er/media/view_release.php?id=915Mon, 20 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +0300Best Oral Presentation for research on heart failure College of Pharmacy Assistant Professor of Pharmacology Dr Fatima Mraiche received a Blue Ribbon Award for best oral presentation  at the recent Annual Research Day 2012 at Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) Medical Research Center held on January 17.    Dr Mraiche ‘s presented her research "Elevated Myocardial NA+/H+ exchanger isoform 1 induces cardiac hypertrophy and the Up-regulation of Osteopontin Gene Expression to a group of approximately 40 participants.  It focussed on her efforts to better understand the cellular mechanisms that lead to heart failure, one of the chronic disorders related to cardiovascular disease  targeted by the 2011-2016  National Health Strategy as the leading cause of death in men and women aged 60 years or older in Qatar.   The strategy document specifically refers to the need to establish a proactive, inter-professional practice model of chronic disease management for heart failure and other chronic diseases and cites best practice examples from Alberta, Canada.    Dr Mraiche was a PhD candidate at the University of Alberta, Canada previous to her joining CPH in  2010 to continue her cardiac research in Qatar.  Her research efforts will help to build Qatar's health care research capacity as well as CPH’s contribution towards better understanding and management of the disease. http://www.qu.edu.qa/ar/offices/er/media/view_release.php?id=916Mon, 20 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +0300Participants to discuss Diversity in Natural Gas UtilizationDetails of the conference scheduled for March 5-7 were outlined at a press conference on Sunday which included a panel comprising QU VP for Research Dr Hassan Al Derham, Dean College of Engineering (CENG) Dr Mazen Hasna, GPC Director Prof Abdelwahab Aroussi, Qatar Shell Country Chairman and Managing Director Mr Andy Brown, QP Director of Administration Mr Ahmed Mawlawi, ConocoPhillips Qatar President Mr Erec Isaacson, Dolphin Energy Qatar General Manager Mr Adel Ahmed Albuainain, and Research Director of ExxonMobil Research Qatar Dr Andy Wigton.   The event will be held under the patronage of His Highness the Heir Apparent Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani,  and sponsored by Qatar Shell as Elite Sponsor, along with main sponsors Qatar Petroleum (QP), ConocoPhillips Qatar, ExxonMobil Qatar and Dolphin Energy Limited.   The symposium theme is “Diversity in Natural Gas Utilization”.   In his remarks, Dr Al Derham said: “This symposium has become a major event on the Qatar and QU calendar.  It is very timely, given the ever-increasing importance placed on natural gas in the development of greener products and technologies to advance sustainable economic development.   Qatar University is proud to host this event and to welcome participants from around the world who will bring significant weight and expertise to the dialogue”.   Commenting on the event, Dr Hasna said:  “This  is a golden opportunity not only for our students of engineering, but also those in the sciences, environment, business and law to participate actively in the symposium proceedings and to hear first-hand from leading industry players, top academics and experts on a topic that is critical for Qatar and its development”.    Prof Aroussi stated that, along with its consortium members, the GPC is committed to engaging the national, regional and international community to address the various challenges related to sustainable and diversified gas utilization.   Erec Isaacson said: “ConocoPhillips is a founding member of the GPC and an active partner in a number of the university’s programs this year. We fully support the State of Qatar’s efforts to diversify gas utilization and the advancement of new efficient and ‘greener’ technologies, which promote economic development and sustainability. We have no alternative but to look at natural gas as a strategic, viable clean alternative – one that Qatar is blessed to have in abundance”.   Andy Wigton commended the GPC for organizing the symposium, saying: “At its foundation, the Center focuses on enhancing the educational experience for engineering students at Qatar University and ultimately helps address challenges facing the gas industry. This is a shared priority for ExxonMobil, and is reflected in our support of GPC and QU, as well as in our business practices, as we continually look for ways to develop the next generation of scientists and engineers and to continually raise the bar in operational excellence”.   Adel Ahmed Albuainain stated that the symposium not only strengthens the link between education and the energy industry, but also fosters debate and discussion to help highlight the importance of gas processing. “As such we’re delighted to be involved in this event”, he said.   Andy Brown noted that the symposium’s theme was particularly relevant to Shell’s activities in Qatar.  He also pointed to the company’s ongoing relationship with QU, in sponsoring the Chair in Sustainable Development, its involvement in the Al Bairaq program under the Materials Technology Unit, and last year’s global Shell eco-Marathon challenge in Germany in which QU student teams took part.   The symposium will include presentations by keynote speakers, and attendees will participate in a series of discussion and technical sessions, workshops and training seminars led by expert presenters.  They will also take part in trips to Qatar’s industrial cities which host the longest LNG production trains in the world.  The symposium program will also include an exhibition by QP, Shell, QAPCO, Dolphin Energy, Gas Processing Association of GCC, ConocoPhillips, ExxonMobil Qatar, Resato, CCTE Algeria, and others.   http://www.qu.edu.qa/ar/offices/er/media/view_release.php?id=917Mon, 20 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +0300Academic exchanges to benefit students and faculty from both institutionsA 5-year MOU signed  on Sunday with Georgetown University School of Foreign Service in Qatar (SFS-Q) will advance academic exchanges and faculty research collaboration, and establish opportunities for students from both institutions to take courses in programs at the respective campuses.   The agreement was signed by QU President Prof Sheikha Abdulla Al-Misnad and Georgetown SFS-Q Dean Prof Gerd Nonneman, in the presence of QU VP and Chief Academic Officer Dr Sheikha bint Jabor Al-Thani, deans, and faculty members from both institutions.   Dr Al-Thani gave a presentation on the implementation strategy, noting that with respect to major academic projects, collaboration may be in the form of joint committees which would facilitate exchange of ideas and constructive feedback.  Additionally, SFS-Q may act as a facilitator for collaboration with its parent campus in Washington DC.   Commenting on the MOU,  Prof Al-Misnad said: “This agreement is a clear indication of how higher education is evolving in Qatar.  Collaboration and exchanges form part of the goal to establish a cohesive environment of academic opportunities for students preparing to enter university and those in the process of making final decisions on the studies they want to pursue.  We are pleased to advance our relationship with Georgetown University Qatar by providing new and exciting opportunities that will benefit students and faculty at both institutions”.   Prof Nonneman said: “We at Georgetown SFS-Q are proud to partner with Qatar University, to build synergies wherever we can. This fits our fundamental aim of engaging with wider Qatari society and education, as part of Georgetown’s own development and mission. Both of our institutions’ students and faculty will benefit from the exchange of ideas and knowledge, and we hope our exchange of expertise leads to long-term relationships of mutual benefit among teaching faculty, staff and administrative leaders, and will help serve the needs of Qatar and the region.  Today’s MOU is very much in line with what we feel is the right next step in the development of both Georgetown’s own endeavors in Qatar, and the development of Qatar as a regional leader in higher education”.   http://www.qu.edu.qa/ar/offices/er/media/view_release.php?id=906Wed, 15 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +0300Sportsmanship, community service, volunteerism, and inclusion celebratedQU joined the rest of the country in celebrating National Sports Day in line with the Emiri decision for the day to be observed on the second Tuesday in February each year. The organization’s Sports and Recreation Section in the Student Activities Department organized an integrated program of sporting activities around the theme “Sports is a Lifestyle” which drew a large number of QU leaders, students, graduates, staff and their families, friends of the university, and members of other governmental institutions.  The activities were also designed for participation by people with special needs.   The activities took place at QU’s Water Complex, the Stadium, and the women’s gymnasium.  Separate activities for male and female attendees included a triathlon(swimming 200m, cycling 2500m and running 2000m), football and volleyball matches, and athletics and recreational games for children, adults, and those with special needs. Commenting on the event, QU Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer Dr Humaid Al-Midfaa said:  “QU’s celebration of National Sports Day is a direct translation of the goals outlined in Qatar National Vision 2030 that are aimed to invest in human resources and raise a productive and healthy nation”.  He noted Qatar’s impressive achievements in gaining a solid reputation for hosting international sporting events such as this year’s highly-successful Arab Games, winning the bid to host the 2022 World Cup,  and hosting the 2006 Asian Games.   “It is in line with Qatar’s commitment to sport that QU last year launched its Sport Science Program”, Dr Al-Midfaa said, adding, “Sport is an important tool for building national unity and international goodwill, and Qatar is becoming well-known as a growing sporting capital.   It goes without saying that sport embodies the basic cultural and Islamic values of  tolerance, reconciliation, cooperation and mutual respect”. Head of Sports and Recreation Section Ms Asmaa Al-Naemi noted the strong support sport continues to receive from HH the Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani and HH the Heir Apparent Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani. “Sport in Qatar has taken big strides in recent years as reflected in the impressive performance of various Qatari teams who participated in regional and international competition.  Our sporting teams at QU have also enjoyed successes nationally and regionally.  We are proud to be part of this national event and to share the Emir’s vision of a health nation”, Ms Al-Naemi said. The event was organized with the help of a team of QU student volunteers as part of the organization’s ongoing campaign of student volunteerism and community service.  Mass communication student Tahani Al Merri said: “Volunteerism plays an important role in strengthening students’ skills and abilities to organize and bring such events to fruition”. http://www.qu.edu.qa/ar/offices/er/media/view_release.php?id=907Wed, 15 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +0300Joins luminaries in business, the arts, culture, science and sportsProfessor of Nuclear Science Prof Ilham Al-Qaradawi at the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) was named among the 50 top people of influence in Qatar by Arabian Business, as published in the magazine yesterday. In the first-ever Qatar Top 50 Power List,  Prof  Al-Qaradawi was listed 48th among such luminaries as Al Jazeera TV boss Sheikh Ahmed Bin Jassim Al Thani, Qatar Airways CEO Akbar Al Baker, ace rally driver Nasser Al-Attiyah, and astronomer Dr  Khalid Al Subai. The Power List includes Qataris, expatriates, and Arabs living in Qatar who are influential in business, the arts, culture, science and sports. Commenting on the announcement, Prof Al-Qaradawi said: “I am proud to be named on this list along with such leading lights in Qatar.  It is very heart-warming to be recognized by this influential magazine that is a champion of the business world in the Middle East and Gulf region”. Prof Al-Qaradawi has a long list of impressive accomplishments in the field of physics and nuclear science.   She headed QU’s Positron Physics Laboratory in developing the magnetically-guided slow positron beam system, making Qatar the only country in the region with this state-of-the-art research tool.  She also took part, along with scientists from many other international research institutions, in antihydrogen experiments using the Large Hadron Collider at CERN (European Organization for Nuclear Research), one of the world’s largest and most respected laboratories for scientific research.   In 2010, Prof  Al-Qaradawi was awarded the rank of Fellow of the Institute of Physics (IOP) UK, the highest level of membership in the Institute and considered one of the very highest levels of achievement within the physics community.   In the previous year, she became a member of the Advisory Committee of the World Nuclear University (WNU) School of Radioisotopes (RI School), where she also lectures in the summer program. Prof Al-Qaradawi has often served in the role of expert judge in several scientific competitions in Qatar.  She was recently invited by the British Council in Qatar to be part of the judging panel of “The Big Science Challenge”, a science and technology competition launched by the British Council and Rolls-Royce for 11-16 year-old high school students in UK, and the Middle East and Gulf region.     http://www.qu.edu.qa/ar/offices/er/media/view_release.php?id=902Sun, 12 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +0300Over US$1 million awarded An announcement made recently by the Office of Academic Research (OAR), QU has been awarded over US$1 million for grant proposals submitted in the 11th cycle of the Undergraduate Research Experience Program (UREP) under the Qatar National Research Fund (QNRF). QU submitted 98 of the 135 proposals that were submitted overall in the cycle from all institutes in Qatar. The organization received 36 (about 70%) of the final 52 proposals awarded by QNRF. The breakdown of the 36 QU awards: Medical and Health Sciences 12, Engineering and Technology 10, Natural Sciences 9, Social Sciences 4, Humanities 1. OAR Director Dr Moumen Hasnah noted that 118 QU students will benefit from the program in this cycle. "We are extremely pleased with this result and congratulate all the students and professors for their wonderful accomplishment, and encourage them to keep up their efforts towards future achievements", he said. http://www.qu.edu.qa/ar/offices/er/media/view_release.php?id=903Sun, 12 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +0300QU recognized among leading organizations in QatarThe Excellence Award for application of the Qatar National E-learning Program (QNEP) of the Supreme Council for Communication and Information Technology (ictQATAR) was awarded to QU in an event held at the Four Seasons Hotel on February 7.    QU was recognized among 4 leading institutions from a field of 60 organizations in the Council’s second annual event to celebrate managers and trainers who have integrated e-learning into their workplace towards enhancing staff skills. QU Director of Career Services Dr Haya Attiyah was presented with the award by the Council’s Assistant Secretary General for Shared Services Mr Faleh Al Naemi, in the presence of a large number of media and representatives of institutions and companies that have established cooperation with ictQATAR in the application of this program. Commenting on the award, Dr Attiyah said:  “I am very proud to accept this award.  The inclusion of e-training in its academic plan will enable Qatar University to prepare a generation of graduates who are able to compete successfully in the labor market”.   http://www.qu.edu.qa/ar/offices/er/media/view_release.php?id=901Thu, 09 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +0300Mandatory for new students registered for Spring 2012The Admissions Department in the Student Affairs Sector will hold “Hayakum” (Orientation Day) on February 15-16 for new students registered for Spring 2012.   Male and female Foundation Program and undergraduate students will be oriented on QU programs, services, and resources in sessions which will be held at Ibn Khaldoon Hall on February 15 (males) and February 16 (females).   Orientation Day is a full-day event designed to welcome the new admits into the QU community and to help them to become familiar with the challenging and exciting opportunities that the organization offers.  Attendance at this event is mandatory for all new students.   During the orientation sessions, students will be provided with relevant information to facilitate their transition into the university environment, such as accessing myQU portal and QU e-mail account services, receiving academic advising and course selection recommendations, and online registration for classes and how to track degree progress. They will also be introduced to the Career Services Center, Library, Student Activities Department, Student Counseling Center, Student Fund, and the Student Learning Support Center.  Student ID cards will be distributed at the end of the day.   It is imperative that all Spring 2012 admits attend their session on the assigned day – those who fail to attend will not be able to register for or attend classes, and therefore will need to re-apply for Fall 2012 admission.   The Admissions Department looks forward to meeting all new admits on the respective days, and welcomes any queries relating to Orientation Day from incoming students and/or  parents.  http://www.qu.edu.qa/ar/offices/er/media/view_release.php?id=897Tue, 07 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +0300Wireless Innovations Center puts spotlight on Cooperative ITS A workshop on "Safe, Smart and Sustainable Traffic Via Cooperative ITS" which was held on February 7-9 by the QU Wireless Innovations Centre (QUWIC) drew over 160 participants to learn about and discuss the progress made globally in the area of Cooperative Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS). Participants also discussed issues related to standards development, pilot deployments, regulatory aspects, spectrum issues, and emerging applications. The workshop, held at the new Qatar National Convention Center, was co-organised with the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI) under lead sponsorship from QNRF. The opening session included presentations from a host of leading experts and academics including QUWIC Executive Director Dr Adnan Abu-Dayya; ETSI Chairman Soeren Hess; Director Transportation and Infrastructure Planning at Qatar Ministry of Municipality and Urban Planning Eng Mohamed Abdah; Research Director ITS Arab Muna Hamdi; CEO ITS Europe (ERTICO) Hermann Meyer, and QNRF ICT Program Manager Dr Munir Tag. In his remarks, Dr Abu-Dayya said: "The field of Cooperative ITS, as evidenced by the tremendous global attention to car-to-infrastructure and car-to-car communications, will undoubtedly re-shape the future of ITS in the years to come. More importantly, the deployment of standard-based car-to-x technologies promises to usher a new generation of applications that will make driving safer, smarter, and more enjoyable". He noted that with Qatar winning the bid to host the 2022 World Cup and the ensuing significant initiatives that are being put into action especially in the transportation field, the country will have a chance to lead in the development, testing, piloting, and deployment of state of the art Cooperative ITS services that will utilize the emerging Car-to-X technologies. "Hence, I hope our deliberations in this workshop can create opportunities for sustainable collaboration in this area". The 3-day event included a technical program with contributions from more than 30 distinguished speakers from all over the world who represented significant segments in the ITS eco-system: Standard organizations, government agencies, car makers, technology providers, research institutions, universities, service providers, and industry consortia. QUWIC ITS Technology Leader Dr Fethi Filali said: "Since its inception in 2009, QUWIC has adopted the area of ITS as its main focus initiative for RandD and is working diligently with strategic partners to deliver ITS innovations to the market. Through a focused technology development strategy, QUWIC is championing the development and piloting of cooperative ITS in Qatar. Some early results of this effort will be demonstrated using QUWIC's connected car in the exhibition hall". The workshop also covered several sessions addressing other important topics such as: standards progress review, global activities and pilots, stakeholders feedback, potential applications and services, radio spectrum allocation, security and privacy issues. Information on the workshop can be accessed at http://www.etsi.org/ITSWorkshop. http://www.qu.edu.qa/ar/offices/er/media/view_release.php?id=898Tue, 07 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +0300Workshops held on technology tools to enhance education and researchOver 500 faculty and staff participated in the 1st OFID EduTech Days on January 23-25 which was organized by the Technology Team at the Office of Faculty and Instructional Development (OFID), in collaboration with the Information Technology Services department.   The 3-day program entitled “Technology-Based Active Learning” comprised 21 workshops that looked at various technology tools that can enhance education and research.   Examples of workshops offered: “Motivating Students to use Multimedia to enhance projects presentations” facilitated by Ms Aisha Al Kaabi and Ms Sara Al Muftah (College of Education); “Using Blackboard effectively to promote Active Learning” by Dr Saleh Al Hazbi (College of Engineering); “Online surveys” and “SharePoint” by Mr Asad Nafees (ITS), and “Arabic online library resources” by Ms Myrna Tabet (Library).   Participants’ feedback was highly positive and they requested OFID to organize further similar events and workshops. The program also included the chance to win a laptop provided by ITS.   OFID Director Dr Dalal Moukarzel noted that the event was an opportunity for faculty members to share and advance their technology skills to facilitate an interactive learning process. She also pointed out that, as QU is striving for a paperless environment, the Office focused on reducing the use of paper during the event, with the event’s program being posted online, and registration and feedback surveys completed electronically.   The event was part of the professional development week initiated by VP and Chief Academic Officer Dr Sheikha bint Jabor Al Thani, and was a lead-up to the 3rd OFID Days scheduled for 13-15 February.  http://www.qu.edu.qa/ar/offices/er/media/view_release.php?id=894Mon, 30 Jan 2012 00:00:00 +0300Implementation procedure clarifiedFollowing an SEC decree on January 24, several changes will come into effect at QU starting Spring 2012, namely, students joining Arabic-taught programs are exempt from Foundation requirements; and additional degree programs will be offered in Arabic, including International Affairs and Business and Economics. The University will strive to provide as many course hours as possible, based on the capacity within the different disciplines. Admission to all QU programs continues to be based on student competitiveness and program capacity. Hereunder are some clarifications about the implementation procedure of the decree: Students already registered in the Foundation Program (Arts and Law) classes of 2009, 2010, and 2011 will be enrolled in their respective colleges, and may enroll in up to 6 credit hours of core curriculum courses as of Spring 2012 term. The registration process begins Sunday February 5, 2012. New students accepted into the Foundation Program (Arts and Law) for Spring 2012 must attend the mandatory Orientation meeting which will provide important information and guidance, and allow them to enroll in up to 6 credit hours of core curriculum courses. Attendance is required for enrollment. Male students: Wednesday 15 February; female students : Thursday 16 February. Suspended students in the Foundation Program (Arts and Law) from classes 2008 and earlier wishing to be re-admitted, may visit the university website to fill in the re-admission form. Final deadline for application for re-admission is Tuesday, February 7, 2012. These applications will be forwarded to the relevant discipline in the respective college. The students will be allowed to enroll in up to 6 credit hours of core curriculum courses for the 2012 Spring term. They will be eligible to register in courses starting from Sunday February 12, 2012. Students from both abovementioned categories are allowed to enroll in courses without meeting with their academic advisors. They can choose to meet with academic advisors, or visit the academic advisory center for any inquiries. It is however compulsory that students enroll in core curriculum courses. Information about the core curriculum can be found on QU website, http://www.qu.edu.qa/core/documents/CCP_New_List_of_Courses.pdf Students currently enrolled in the Foundation Program who have been accepted into the College of Business and Economics for the 2012 Spring term will continue their studies within the Foundation Program. Successful completion of the Foundation Program remains a requirement for pursuing the College's current study plan. Starting Fall 2012, a new study plan will offer Business and Economics programs in the Arabic language. Under is clarification on transfer of majors, status of academically-dismissed students, English Language provision, entry requirements, and status of course hours completed in Foundation Program. At this time, students will not be allowed to change their major as the deadline has expired for transfer of majors. This will be possible as soon as the drop/add period reopens in Spring 2012 -- dates are available on the academic calendar. http://www.qu.edu.qa/students/documents/calendar/en_calendar_2011_2012.pdf Pursuant to the decree stipulations, students who were academically-dismissed from QU are not eligible for re-admission in the university. The decree addressed some undergraduate degree programs in the College of Law, Arts majors in the College of Arts and Sciences, and the College of Business and Economics. Other programs at QU will continue to use English as the language of instruction. Students who do not meet the required high school GPA to join the university may still apply for admission in the event that they achieve the required scores in the minimum competency requirements as published on the QU website. http://www.qu.edu.qa/students/admission/undergraduate/competency_requirements.php After revision of the Foundation Program courses and their content, the University cannot account for those courses towards graduation in their degree programs. http://www.qu.edu.qa/ar/offices/er/media/view_release.php?id=888Tue, 24 Jan 2012 00:00:00 +0300Students presented video and public relations and advertising productionsSenior students from Qatar University’s Department of Mass Communication in the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) yesterday presented their graduation projects to a panel of judges, in the presence of department faculty and students, and parents. The event also included a photograph and video exhibition.   In the video production capstone course, Rania Awadaulla presented a television program entitled “Semi Colon”, Reham Hesham and Nour Abou Assi  a documentary movie entitled “Four Months”, and Fatma Ayman Bakrou “The Young Equestrian”.  They were supervised by department lecturer in video, audio and TV production Chaker Ayadi.   Public Relations and Advertising capstone students were guided and directed by department faculty Assistant Professor Dr  Saadia Malik and Associate Professor Dr Robert Meeds on a wide range of topics.  Sultan Al Amri, Mohamed Al Ansari and Ibrahim Al Blushi presented a campaign entitled “The Ten Percent”.  A research on the PR Department at Qatar Ministry of Interior  was presented by Mshael Al Jaber and Al Anoud Al Naemi.  Another campaign to further expand and enhance QNAKIDS, a news service of Qatar National Agency aimed at children, was presented by Maytha Al Qubaisi and Al Maha Al Sayed.    In his remarks, Head Department of Mass Communication Dr Mahmoud Galander praised the students’ remarkable efforts to produce professional projects. “Year after year, we aim to graduate qualified students who possess the best practical skills and who will distinguish themselves in the local and international competitive labor market. I wish them all a bright future”, he said.   In a similar forum last Thursday, three broadcast students, Abdulatif Metwali, Khaled Salem and Sewar Al Thahab Ali,  presented and discussed their documentary project on the “Arab Spring” which was produced under the supervision of well-known Al Jazeera presenter Mr Mohammed Saadoon Al Kuwari.  The discussion session was attended by Dr Galander, department faculty and representatives from Al Jazeera. http://www.qu.edu.qa/ar/offices/er/media/view_release.php?id=884Mon, 23 Jan 2012 00:00:00 +030025 applauded for "A" grade in Honors Freshman Seminar courseIn the presence of Qatar Museums Authority (QMA) chairperson H.E. Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani, Qatar University (QU) Honors Program  celebrated the success of its students who passed the Honors Freshman Seminar course conducted in Fall 2011.  Twenty-five students of the Program out of a total of 31, received an “A” grade  in the course.   The celebration took place last Thursday in the courtyard of the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA).  It was attended by the Director of QU Honors Program Dr Ahmed Ibrahim, QMA Chief Executive Officer Mr Abdulla Al Najjar and MIA Director Ms Aisha Al Khater.   In his remarks, Dr Ibrahim praised the students and said: “This is our second year of celebrating the accomplishment of QU Honors students.   What makes this day special is the attendance of H E Al Mayassa Al-Thani”.   He added that hosting the seminar course was a generous opportunity provided by the Museum to the students.  “It goes without saying that offering such courses is a representation of the strong bond between QU and the Museum of Islamic Art and we hope to foster and advance this relationship in the future”.    Dr Ibrahim encouraged the students to unlock their skills and potential and utilize their talents towards reaching their goals.  He advised them that majoring in engineering, pharmacy, or science should not lessen their passion for art and pointed to QMA CEO Al-Najjar who holds a degree in engineering as proof of being able to find the right balance.   Ms Al Khater welcomed the students and highlighted her experience, saying: “I graduated with a music degree but I have a deep passion for art.  Once you have a passion for something, you can excel and succeed”.   Mr Al Najjar drew the students’ attention to QMA’s desire to employ distinguished QU graduates from different disciplines and specializations.  “We believe that QU graduates possess the best practical and theoretical knowledge and skills that help them to succeed in any business environment or sector, including in the field of art”.   He presented the students with the published book “The Dream of A King” which presents editorial and photographic details of the exhibition of treasures from the Green Vault in Dresden which is currently on display in the Museum.   Freshman computer engineering student Rodaa Al Musalam said: “This fantastic course expanded my background in art.  I learned a lot about renowned artists and enjoyed the experience of analyzing their artistic works from historical and psychological aspects”.   Her classmate Khuzama Al Harami thanked Honors Program course instructor Dr Olga Nefedova for making the course an enjoyable one. “I am thankful for all her efforts to plant the seeds of passion of art  in our hearts and minds.  I enjoyed meeting students from other majors and sharing our ideas in a friendly environment”.   Mechanical engineering student Sayed Zafar said:  “Appreciating beauty is a fundamental outcome of this course. Life doesn’t mean excelling in one single field. Being a distinguished human being means being well-rounded in many disciplines”. http://www.qu.edu.qa/ar/offices/er/media/view_release.php?id=885Mon, 23 Jan 2012 00:00:00 +0300Leading organizations in Qatar commend competence and professionalismWith the aim to better understand the needs and expectations of Qatar’s labor market, Qatar University’s External Relations Department  approached leading institutions both in the public and private sectors to get answers to a number of relevant questions:   Do the learning outcomes of the organization meet the expectations of decision makers, and supply Qatar’s labor market with competent graduates who can meet its demands?  Can QU graduates effectively use technology in their daily business? Are they capable of fulfilling assigned tasks efficiently and in a spirit of team work?  Are they ready and willing to adapt to the demands of any business environment?   Feedback was encouraging – the majority highly commended QU graduates’ abilities, and expressed their keen desire to build and maintain constructive relationships with the organization.   Qatar Petroleum Administrative Affairs Director Mr Ahmed Ali Abdullah Al Mawlawi applauded QU’s curricula and the academic level of its graduates.  He stated that QU graduates possess the best academic and practical potential to help them succeed in any business environment or sector. “I am proud of QU and the success it achieves year after year with its multitude of graduates joining different sectors in the labor market.  They have been warmly received by employers”, he added.   Al Mawlawi also pointed to the multi-level links between QP and QU and affirmed his company’s willingness and commitment to recruiting QU graduates who can occupy top managerial positions.  Al Mawlawi  himself holds an MA from QU’s College of Business and Economics.   RasGas Director of Development and Personnel Care Mr Arhama Al Kaabi stated that RasGas recruited a good number of QU graduates in various programs, as well as provided scholarships and summer training.  QU graduates are a good example of hardworking and distinguished individuals, he said, noting that QU students in the company’s Summer Star Program stood ahead of their peers from other universities.   “QU graduates carry out the tasks assigned to them and gradually advance further in the company, occupying key positions such as heads of departments and section managers in the engineering  and legal departments, and many others where they have demonstrated high professional competencies”, Al Kaabi said.  He highlighted the company’s plan to target new graduates coming into the company to provide them with job training to improve their skills and manage their duties and responsibilities effectively.   Al Kaabi pointed to areas of cooperation between the two institutions in the form of joint committees, shared lectures and seminars, and student visits that advance learning outcomes that are aligned with the needs of prospective  employers.   Qatar Facilities Company Manager of Operations and Maintenance Eng Abu Baker Junaid Al Hadrami voiced appreciation of QU’s commitment to the local community in terms of providing a well-qualified workforce.   A QU graduate himself,  Eng Al Hadrami recalled the wealth of knowledge and experience  he gained from the Department of Electrical Engineering that impacted positively on his professional career. He also stressed the importance of self-education and development.  Notably, his Managing Director is also a QU graduate and a former colleague at QU’s College of Engineering.   Similar opinion of the professionalism of QU graduates was shared by other individuals in various other institutions such as QTel.    Professional Development Specialist Mr Nader Al Sayyed who oversees training at QTel, commended QU graduates for the knowledge and skills they bring to the company that help them carry out their assignments effectively.  They can easily handle and use technology, are excellent communicators, fluent in both Arabic and English, and are good at analyzing problems and finding solutions, Al Sayyed said.   He also pointed to their ability to work independently, their leadership skills and adaptability to any business environment.   Twenty-five students are currently on scholarship at QU, Al Sayyed  said.  He urged the organization to give added attention to training in the manner that serves the interest of both students and employers. More attention should also be given to new technologies and foreign languages, he said.    http://www.qu.edu.qa/ar/offices/er/media/view_release.php?id=882Sun, 22 Jan 2012 00:00:00 +0300Public reading attracts local fansEnglish Lecturer in the Department of English Literature and Linguistics,College of Arts and Sciences,and acclaimed author and poet Sam Meekings, read and signed copies of his latest novel, "The Book of Crows", at Tribe Bookstore in Education City on January 16. The event, organized by the Department and Bloomsbury Qatar Foundation Publishing, was well-attended by local book fans. Mr Meekings spoke about his writing process and his experiences in China, before reading excerpts from the novel which is set on the historical Silk Road. He then answered questions from the audience about bringing history to life, authors that inspire him, and plans for his next project. He later signed and dedicated copies of "The Book of Crows", as well as his acclaimed first novel "Under Fishbone Clouds" and poetry collection, which are sold at the bookstore. The reading and book-signing marks another successful month for Mr Meekings. "Under Fishbone Clouds" is currently the Pick of the Week at Starbucks in the UK, while "The Book of Crows", called "confident, elegant and profound" by the Scottish Review of Books, will be published in paperback form in the coming weeks.http://www.qu.edu.qa/ar/offices/er/media/view_release.php?id=876Wed, 18 Jan 2012 00:00:00 +0300Receiving guidance and mentoring by top experts in the field4 law students participated in the College of Law’s championship round on advocacy skills on January 4.   This was the final of earlier oral advocacy rounds involving a total of 12 students that took place as part of LAWC’s advocacy skills course.  Hamad Muhammad Al Musfir took top prize for “Best Oralist in Advocacy Skills, Fall 2011”, followed by Aisha Abdulla Al-Emadi, who was awarded “Runner-Up Oralist in Advocacy Skills, Fall 2011”.  Aisha Hassan Al-Emadi and Ghada Ahmed Hijazi rounded out the top four. The students presented oral arguments in front of a panel of judges comprising Kathleen Bradley from KandL Gates law firm, Rudiger Tscherning, Director LAWC Forum on Energy and Environmental Law, and Dr Conrad Sturm, Director LAWC Legal Writing and Advocacy Skills Program.  Also in attendance were Dr Hassan Okour, LAWC Dean; Dr Hassan Al-Sayed, law professor and former LAWC Dean; and Chris Campbell-Holt, Registrar Qatar International Court and Dispute Resolution Centre. It is the first time that the College has held such an event.   Throughout the  advocacy skills course, students were taught how to advocate before a court in both oral and written forms in preparation for their mock courtroom appearances.  This mandatory course is now one of three courses that students are required to take as part of a new comprehensive skills program in legal research, writing, and advocacy at the College.    ….. Law students will have the opportunity of expert mentoring for the lead up to the moot court at Al-Jazeera scheduled for February 21-23.   Mr Adam Levin, a moot coordinator from Oxford University  Programme in Comparative Media Law and Policy Center for Socio-Legal Studies will work with the LAWC team. ….. Meanwhile, corporate law students had the opportunity of first-hand information on the Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) which was outlined in a lecture by the Director of Authorization at QFC Regulatory Authority Mr Stephen Cemm. The lecture  entitled “An introduction to the QFC and the role and purpose of the QFC Regulatory Authority and its Authorisation Function”, covered the nature of the legal environment and the key differences between the QFC environment and that of the State.   Its objective was to demonstrate the importance of the rules and regulations of QFC RA in relation to authorizing and licensing firms to operate within the State of Qatar. Mr Cemm described the rationale, process and considerations which go into assessing applications from firms seeking to undertake non-regulated business, and discussed the considerations which apply when assessing regulated financial services businesses.  http://www.qu.edu.qa/ar/offices/er/media/view_release.php?id=880Wed, 18 Jan 2012 00:00:00 +0300Students discuss their research and findings College of Business and Economics (CBE) yesterday showcased the Fall 2011 graduation projects of its MBA students. Five graduation projects were presented in a poster exhibition, a departure from previous years when students made oral presentations of their projects. Four final course (group) projects were also displayed. Ali Sowailah, Ayman Bahdo, Muna Al Ali, Osama Al-Momani and Eman Al-Enazi discussed the research and findings of their respective projects with QU VP for Institutional Development Dr Saif Al-Sowaidi, CBE Dean Dr Nitham Hindi, Acting Associate Dean for Research Affairs and Graduate Studies Dr Khalid Ayfare, CBE Dean for Academic Affairs Dr Adam Fadlalla, CBE faculty members, and several members of the Arabic and English media. Ali Sowailah's project "Female Qatari consumer preference for shoe retailers: the importance of shoe retailer attributes" explored the attributes of significance to female consumers with the choice of shoes and retailer shoes in Qatar. He found that variety, color, quality, promotion, location and staff friendliness had a high level of importance. However, interior design, the name of the shop, had a low level of importance, while the advertising attribute had no level of importance. "An analysis of the construction industry with a focus on building contractors" was the title of Ayman Bahdo's project which aimed to give market insights into the different construction groups, especially the building contracting group, in devising their strategic plans for attaining and sustaining the competitive market edge. Muna Al-Ali's project focused on pediatric dentistry and aimed to provide a strategic plan for one of the pediatric dentistry clinics in Qatar to enable the clinic to sustain the success of its business. In her evaluation, Muna looked at the oral health behavior of the customers; customer satisfaction; customer demographics; the financial status of the clinic; and the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT). In his project "Factors that affect consumer repurchase intention toward a vehicle brand in The State of Qatar", Osama Al-Momani concluded that consumer attitude, followed by subjective norms and finally the perceived behavior control were significant factors in predicting consumer intention to repurchase the same automobile brand. Eman Al-Enazi' project "Consumers' awareness of their rights and perceived consumer power in the retail industry in Qatar and their impact on consumers' complaint behavior" measured the level of customers' awareness of their rights as granted in the Consumer Protection Law in Qatar, and examined the relationship between their awareness level and their perceived power. It also studied the effect that perceived consumer power has on their complaint behavior, and the effect of consumers' awareness level of their rights and perceived consumer power on their complaint behavior. Titles of the final course projects included "A Qatari Real Estate Development Company"; "Cure and Care andndash; a website revealing how hospitals can market their services online"; "Strategic plan and implementation andndash; A retail company"; and "BOSS simulation andndash; Blue Round Project". Head of Department of Management and Marketing Dr Rana Sobh noted that on the BOSS simulation which is used in top-ranked MBAs around the world, CBE students' performance ranked in the top 4% globally. Both Dr Hindi and Dr Alshare voiced similar sentiments applauding the quality of the students' projects and their ability to effectively apply what they learned in the classroom and arrive at solutions to real-life issues in the country. "This is the result of continuous improvements at the College", Dr Hindi said. Dr Alshare encouraged the students to pursue efforts to publish their projects at academic forums and in academic journals. http://www.qu.edu.qa/ar/offices/er/media/view_release.php?id=875Tue, 17 Jan 2012 00:00:00 +0300New marine research vessel arrives at Doha portAt 3:30pm last Sunday, our new marine research vessel “Janan” arrived at Doha port at the end of a month-long journey crossing the Atlantic Ocean, Mediterranean Sea, Suez Cannel, Red Sea, Arabian Sea and through the Arabian Gulf.   The vessel was escorted into port by a small fleet of boats from Qatar’s Coast Guard.   A group of QU leaders -- QU President Prof Sheikha Abdulla Al-Misnad, VP for Research Dr Hassan Al-Derham, VP for Institutional Planning and Development Saif Alsowaidi, Director Environmental Studies Center (ESC) Dr Mohsin Al-Ansi, along with several other QU members  - was on hand at the reception ceremony.  The event was also attended by the Director of Coasts and Border Security Department Brigadier Ali Ahmad Saif al-Bedaid al-Mannai, and several officers from the Ministry of Interior. "Janan" is named after the island located in the western part of the Qatari peninsula.  The vessel is for use by QU’s Environmental Studies Center to advance marine environmental studies and research in Qatar and the Gulf region.   It is a generous donation presented to QU by H.H the Heir Apparent and Chairperson of QU Board of Regents Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani to replace the outgoing vessel "Mukhtabar Al-Bihar". “Janan” was built in the Vigo shipyard of Freire, the world-famous manufacturer of scientific research vessels in cooperation with Qatari experts in compliance with Qatar’s environmental conditions. The “Janan” has an overall length of 42.8 meters, breadth of 10 meters, gross registered tonnage of more than 600 tonnes, maximum draught of 3.7 meters which will allow it to reach the most shallow areas of the Arabian Gulf, normal cruising speed of 12.5 knots and maximum speed of 14 knots. The vessel can sail for 21 days, and accommodate a total of 30 technical and scientific staff.   It is equipped with two main engines, allowing it to work near oil and gas platforms, has the ability to function on generators without relying on the major engines, and contains an advanced de-positioning system to stabilize the vessel using satellites. It has 5 sophisticated research laboratories, and electrical generators. Facilities also include an environment-friendly sewage treatment unit, water desalination plant, an ER for medical emergencies, and a diving room. http://www.qu.edu.qa/ar/offices/er/media/view_release.php?id=870Thu, 12 Jan 2012 00:00:00 +0300Students oriented on business practices and strategiesCollege of Business and Economics (CBE) concluded its guest lecture series recently with a lecture by QTel Senior Director of Consumer Marketing  Mr Faisal Al Bably on the company’s communication strategy and factors to its successful integrated marketing communication plan.   The series of lectures was designed to orient students in the MBA marketing management class to business practices and strategies in diverse sectors, providing them with first-hand knowledge from marketing executives from national and international companies in Qatar.   Head of the department Dr Rana Sobh explained: “ One of my objectives is to link theory to practice and bring students closer to the business world.  Students greatly benefit from what  executives have to  share.” The series started early in the academic year with a lecture delivered  by Head of  Corporate Social Responsibility Vodafone Qatar Mrs Luisa Gentile on corporate social responsibility (CSR)  and the key role it plays in the company’s  global strategy.  Other guest speakers included Cluster General Manager Ritz Carlton Hotel Doha Mr Hoss Vetry, who discussed the chain’s brand positioning and differentiation strategies in Qatar as well as globally.  Students also benefited from  lectures by Marketing Manager Abu Issa Holdings Miss Fatema Ali Alaali on segmentation challenges in the retail business, and by LNG Marketing Manager ExxonMobil Qatar Mr Marc Bara who shared his invaluable experience on marketing LNG globally. http://www.qu.edu.qa/ar/offices/er/media/view_release.php?id=871Thu, 12 Jan 2012 00:00:00 +03002nd place for the topic "The GCC: 25 years from now"The Debate Club won second place for their topic in the 11th Inter College Environmental Public Speaking Competition held by the Emirates Environmental Group at Dubai Knowledge Village in November last year.   The competition addressed 4 main topics:  “The GCC: 25 years from now”, “Does recycling matter?”, “Mobile phones -- a blessing or a curse?”, and “Development without destruction: Is it possible?”.   QU team members Jihed Farhat Laabar, Hayder Al-Mazraqchi, Mohamed Shaheem Purayil, Sarosh Sohail, and Almas Lokhandwala under the supervision of Foundation Program English teacher Mr Patrick Murphy, competed against 12 teams from several GCC countries on the topic “The GCC: 25 years from now”.   Commenting on the event, Mr Murphy said: “This was a very challenging competition. I was very happy with the students’ performance – it was fully their work”.   The winning students detailed the experience of collecting the data which was a difficult task due to the lack of information on the subject, and described the long hours of preparation to ensure success in their presentation.   “We used to hold long meetings late into the night.  I was sure of our team’s success because we put in a lot of effort and truly deserved our prize,”  Hayder Almazraqchi said. Mohamed Saheem Purayil pointed out that they had only a month before the day of the competition to submit the information.  “It was a very difficult task as we had to analyze complex data to come up with recommendations on how to improve the environmental situation in the GCC region in the next 25 years”.   Almas Lokhandwala added: “I was the one selected to present all this data to the audience.  As members of the Debate Club, we have a lot of experience debating and public speaking, so I did not worry that much about handling the responsibility”.   It was however the first time for Sarosh Sohail to take part in a university level international public speaking competition.  “This experience was full of excitement and challenges.  I was very worried all the time,  but after we won, all the negative feelings disappeared. What made us different from the others is, despite the lack of data, we submitted a well-prepared proposal and an integrated vision to improve the environmental situation in the Gulf”.   Jihed Laabar added:  “In this competition, our team was distinctive in verbal presentation and communication.  I would like to thank the Student Activities Department for their support during the days we spent in Dubai.  I believe we did a good job representing Qatar University”.  http://www.qu.edu.qa/ar/offices/er/media/view_release.php?id=864Mon, 09 Jan 2012 00:00:00 +0300Event part of finale of International Year of ChemistryStudent Dina Thameer Hadi from the Department of Chemistry and Earth Sciences, presented the findings of a senior research study at the Green Chemistry Forum held at the College of Science at Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) in Oman last December. The research on the applicability of metal removal from contaminated water using Iron oxide nanoparticles was conducted along with department students Meetha Al Sulaiti, Tasneem Mohammed, Noraa Al Shummary, Rahma Sameeh, Shaimaa Al Yahri, and supervised by department head Dr Jan Kwak and associate professor of chemistry Dr Khalid Al-Saad. Along with Dina, Dr Al-Saad and associate professor of chemistry Dr Siham Al-Qaradawi attended the Forum which was designed to bring students together to exchange experiences in research and green chemistry projects. Participants delivered presentations and scientific posters and attended workshops on topics such as water treatment and re-use, waste management and treatment, energy efficiency and sustainability, oil recovery efficiency, green lab experiment, and biofuels. The Forum was held in association with Oman National Commission for Education, Culture and Science and marked the conclusion of the series of events organised at SQU during the past year to celebrate the International Year of Chemistry 2011. http://www.qu.edu.qa/ar/offices/er/media/view_release.php?id=862Sun, 08 Jan 2012 00:00:00 +0300January 15 deadline for applications The Gulf Studies Master’s degree program at the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) is open for Spring admissions until January 15. Prospective students are advised to prepare all required documentation for uploading on the QU admissions website http://www.qu.edu.qa/students/admission/graduates.php.  They are expected to hold a Bachelor’s degree with no less than 2.85 GPA, 520 TOEFL or equivalent within the last two years.  They are also required to submit a satisfactory writing sample, and pass a face-to-face interview.    Further information on academic requirements for joining the Program can be accessed at http://www.qu.edu.qa/artssciences/gulfstudies/admissions.php. The program which was launched earlier this year, is the first-ever Gulf Studies Master’s in Qatar and the region, and the second in the world. It incorporates disciplines in the CAS departments of Humanities, International Affairs, and English Literature and Linguistics, providing students with an advanced interdisciplinary understanding and in-depth knowledge of issues related to the states of the Arabian Gulf.   While the Program is  delivered in English, students are expected to pursue an Arabic proficiency course. The 2-year full-time program consists of 36 credit hours.  It covers courses relating to heritage, society, politics, economics, media, international relations, and the energy industry of the Gulf States.    It is also offered on a part-time basis for those currently employed. The Program offers such course titles as “Contemporary History and Politics in the Gulf”, “Global Energy Geopolitics”, “The Arabian Peninsula Literature and Culture”, “Environment and Climate Ecology”, and “Human Rights in the Gulf States”. The program is taught by a number of leading in-house and visiting experts in the field.  The rationale behind the Program is based on the recognition that QU can be a focal point of excellence in the field of Gulf Studies.  Producing highly-qualified graduates with such a degree will cater to Qatar’s human capital needs as outlined in the National Vision 2030. Graduates will be aptly skilled in finding solutions in Qatar and the region’s pressing questions.  They will be able to pursue careers in culture and heritage, finance, industry, academia, foreign affairs, and with governmental and non-governmental organizations http://www.qu.edu.qa/ar/offices/er/media/view_release.php?id=860Thu, 05 Jan 2012 00:00:00 +0300College fostering a culture of researchA one-day workshop held by the College of Law on December 29 provided LAWC faculty and students with first-hand information on legal research, methodologies, and research funding. The workshop was part of the efforts by the College under the leadership of Dean Hassan O'kour to foster a vibrant research culture and to enhance faculty members' readiness and opportunities of winning research grants. It is also in alignment with the College's vision of achieving the highest international standards in legal scholarship and education. It was conducted by University of Nottingham Professor of Law and Social Theory David Fraser. The decision to invite Prof Fraser was particularly strategic as he was responsible for leading a team that transformed the research ranking of the University's Faculty of Law to top four in the UK. This led to his appointment to serve on a panel to assess legal research in the UK government's Research Excellence Framework, a program that maps a college's research quality and output to its budget. In his presentation, Prof Fraser noted that a lot of emphasis was placed on collaborative research, either within law or across disciplines such as business, economics, history and sociology. "This is very important as it facilitates or enhances the chances for research grant as well as showcasing the college as a place of excellent research. It will also help attract leading scholars to visit or research at the college. Faculty members involved in international collaborative research will also enhance their international and comparative perspectives on the legal issues they deal with or teach. The key to success in research is making time for it andndash; through research days, research leave and research grants", he said. The second half of the session was devoted to funding for research and was conducted by Associate Dean Francis Botchway, who outlined the various funding and support opportunities available at QU as well as the NPRP, and encouraged faculty members to take advantage of them. Prof Fraser also explained the importance of funded research, emphasizing that "funding should never be an end in itself andndash; it is always a means to an end". He indicated that the most important part of funding application is to have an excellent research project -- one that can be explained and clearly understood. Meanwhileandhellip;30 students and faculty members led by Dean O'kour attended the sessions at the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption Center, which was inaugurated by the Attorney General Dr Ali Al-Marri and the UN Secretary General H.E. Ban Ki-moon at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Doha on December 11. The plenary session was chaired by QU President Prof Sheikha Abdulla Al-Misnad. It is expected that LAWC will play a significant role in the functioning of the Center through continuing education programs and other forms of collaboration. http://www.qu.edu.qa/ar/offices/er/media/view_release.php?id=853Tue, 03 Jan 2012 00:00:00 +0300Film discusses role of media in the ongoing situationTwo of our talented students Emad AlShamma'a and Manar Shalash (civil engineering) are the leads in a short film that was produced and directed by students from Georgetown and Northwestern University Qatar. "Mafee Shee" is a five-minute film that aims to highlight the recent occurrences of the instable political situation in Syria. The film represents the silenced Syrians who suffer under constant threat as well as the Syrian media's reluctance to broadcast a fair and neutral image of the current situation. The film's title "Mafee shee" ,which literally means "Nothing Is Happening", reflects the biased Syrian media. This film represents the views of the people who are demanding regime change and Syrians who are incapable of voicing their protests to the international community. The film was produced by Mohammed A Farran and Malik Habayeb, students of international politics at Georgetown University Qatar and Jeana El-Gazar, student of mass communication at Northwestern University Qatar. http://www.qu.edu.qa/ar/offices/er/media/view_release.php?id=848Sun, 01 Jan 2012 00:00:00 +0300Prospective students' application to Gulf Studies, Environmental Sciences, and Arabic LanguageCollege of Arts and Sciences (CAS) will hold an Open House on January 3 for its three graduate programs.   The  event  will open admissions applications  for Gulf Studies (Spring 2012), and Environmental Sciences and Arabic Language (Fall 2012).    Prospective students will be provided with introductory and other relevant information on the programs and will have the opportunity to meet the respective faculty and program coordinators.  Applicants will be oriented on online registration in a training session and will later fill out their admission applications.    http://www.qu.edu.qa/ar/offices/er/media/view_release.php?id=849Sun, 01 Jan 2012 00:00:00 +0300Opportunity to share experiences and knowledgeDepartment of Civil Engineering at College of Engineering (CENG) held an Open Day recently at Mövenpick Hotel to build on the network of QU engineering alumni and to re-affirm a platform for continued communication.    The gathering was attended by VP for Research Dr Hassan Al-Derham and VP for Student Affairs Dr Omar Al-Ansari, department faculty and former and current students. Dr Al-Ansari, himself a graduate from the Department, discussed its development since his attendance in 1985.  “There have been significant changes which have added value, quality and excellence to the department.  This is part of QU’s push to upgrade the academic level of its students and to graduate well-rounded individuals who will serve their community effectively.  I urge all graduates to join the Alumni Club to maintain the lines of  communication with the organization”.     Department Chair Dr Saleh Mubarak applauded the graduates, saying: “The main objective of the department’s program is to provide the State of Qatar with highly-qualified civil engineers to meet the needs of the local and regional market . This gathering helps us to continue the efforts of serving QU and is a great opportunity to share our various and diverse experiences”.   Dr Mubarak pointed to CENG’s rapid growth and highlighted some of its successes such as achieving ABET accreditation status for its Bachelor degree programs in Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Industrial and Systems Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Computer Science.   Eng. Shaheen Al Ghanim currently working with Bechtel, said: “Attending this gathering today is a way  of maintaining my relationship with this prestigious institution”.  Eng. Mohammad Sadeq, researcher at Texas AandM University Qatar, voiced appreciation for QU’s efforts and that of its faculty towards his success:  “The knowledge I gained through my academic journey prepared me to compete with other researchers in my field of specialization. Getting attention for your work means that you are a graduate of Qatar University”.     As part of the evening’s program, ten students were randomly drawn to receive free membership in the Alumni Club. http://www.qu.edu.qa/ar/offices/er/media/view_release.php?id=852Sun, 01 Jan 2012 00:00:00 +0300In-house services to be suspended from Jan 15 to Feb 19As of January 15, QU Libraries will start moving to the new building. As part of the move, the Library will be closed and services will stop working temporarily until February 19. It will close its doors to all visitors and tours. January 12 will be the last day to check out/check in items from the Library. The due date will be customized to avoid charging users during the unavailability of the circulation service. Reference Services, Inter-Library Loan, and photocopying/printing/scanning services will also be suspended. The following services will remain available: E-Resources, Ask a Librarian, Document Delivery Services (DDS), library sessions (outside the Library), ordering online through the Acquisitions Department. The Library will resume its regular activities in the new building as of February 19. During the move, all offices will remain reachable by telephone and emails. http://www.qu.edu.qa/ar/offices/er/media/view_release.php?id=846Thu, 29 Dec 2011 00:00:00 +0300Received "Highly Commended" cerrtificate for its Masarak solutionCongratulations to QU Wireless Innovations Center for winning a ‘Highly Commended’ certificate at the annual Gulf Traffic Exhibition in Dubai for Intelligent Traffic, Transportation, and Logistics solution and portfolio of services (Masarak™).   This achievement was reported in today's Gulf Times. Receiving this certificate from a global judging panel is a great testament to the value of Masarak and its unique positioning in the market, QUWIC Executive Director Dr Adnan Abu-Dayya said. QUWIC developed the Masarak solution that provides rich and intelligent portfolio of services and applications in the areas of traffic monitoring, fleet management, intelligent dispatching and trip planning.