Doha: Vice President for Student Affairs at Qatar University (QU) Dr. Mohammad Diab announced that the institution's 49th graduation ceremony, scheduled for next week, will achieve a milestone with the graduation of the first cohort from the College of Nursing. This development signifies the evolution of academic programs in line with national priorities, particularly in healthcare.
According to Qatar News Agency, Dr. Diab highlighted that this year's class includes 4,024 graduates, consisting of 3,122 women and 902 men. This demonstrates the university's societal impact, with more than 2,500 graduates being Qatari, emphasizing its role in national talent development. Additionally, nearly 1,500 non-Qatari graduates reinforce academic and cultural diversity at the institution.
Dr. Diab stated that 3,587 graduates are from undergraduate programs, while 437 have completed postgraduate studies. The College of Arts and Sciences is the largest, with over 1,000 graduates. He emphasized that the graduation ceremony is a reflection of the university's identity and national role, involving significant preparation and coordination to ensure a smooth experience for graduates and their families.
He reiterated that the first nursing cohort's graduation marks a significant step aligned with state priorities. The ceremony requires coordination across multiple sectors to accommodate thousands of attendees, ensuring a dignified experience reflecting the university's stature.
Dr. Diab explained that graduation is a benchmark translating the university's outputs into the labor market, with each cohort contributing qualified talent to meet national sector needs. The diversity of disciplines and high proportion of Qatari graduates strengthen the university's role in human capital development aligned with Qatar National Vision 2030.
He added that Qatar University operates within a strategic framework focusing on producing graduates capable of contributing to the knowledge economy and adapting to rapid development through an integrated system linking education with research and national needs.
Dr. Diab noted that the university experience extends beyond academics, focusing on personal development to enhance students' skills and societal engagement. This includes leadership, volunteer, and professional experiences that prepare students for the future.
He detailed the mechanism for preparing QU graduates for the labor market, emphasizing the importance of adaptable skills such as critical thinking, digital literacy, and initiative. The institution links students to the job market through training and practical experience, enabling graduates to enter the workforce confidently.
Dr. Diab underscored the importance of strategic partnerships with employers, providing opportunities like internships, scholarships, and employment pathways. The Student Affairs sector supports this direction, with the Career Development Center partnering with over 231 entities to deliver quality career opportunities and prepare students for the job market.
The center offers specialized training in CV writing, interview preparation, and soft skills development, aiming to produce graduates ready for workforce integration. Dr. Diab emphasized the university's ongoing relationship with students beyond graduation, fostering engagement and partnership.
He highlighted the role of the Qatar University Alumni Association in building a sustainable global network that connects graduates and facilitates knowledge exchange. The association engages alumni in professional and community activities and links them with current students through mentorship to enhance career readiness.
Dr. Diab concluded his remarks to QNA by congratulating the Class of 2026, describing graduation as the beginning of a new phase of responsibility. He emphasized that the true value of knowledge lies in its application for the benefit of the nation and society.