QBA, CMU-Q Sign Pact To Foster Ties in Education, Scientific Research

Top officials of the Qatari Businessmen Association (QBA) and Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar (CMU-Q) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on Monday to foster co-operation in the fields of education, scientific research, and community development.

The MoU, signed by QBA chairman HE Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim al-Thani and CMU-Q dean Michael Trick, establishes partnerships across various sectors, including education and scientific research. It reflects the shared belief of both the QBA and CMU-Q in the vital role educational institutions play in enhancing the quality of the economy and society.

The collaboration also aims to include training, exchange of expertise, and preparation of economic reports, public policy, business management, information systems, capacity building, specialised academic conferences, and community development initiatives.

The QBA and CMU-Q have also agreed to establish a joint working group to ensure the effective implementation of the areas of cooperation outlined in the MoU.

During the signing ceremony, Sheikh Faisal explained that Qatar’s Third National Development Strategy (NDS3) 2024–2030 places great emphasis on the outcomes of education. He noted that educational institutions in Qatar are producing “globally competitive graduates” who serve as a “strong asset” to the economic landscape.

He said: “Accordingly, the Qatari Businessmen Association, in alignment with Qatar National Vision 2030, is committed to supporting graduates — both now and in the future — by facilitating their entry into the labour market and creating wide-ranging opportunities.”

He noted that by collaborating with CMU-Q, the QBA seeks to enhance academic and scientific research efforts in line with the goals of NDS3. He emphasised the importance of strategic partnerships between the business community and academic and research institutions to accelerate the application of research findings and development initiatives in economic and commercial sectors, thereby boosting overall productivity in the private sector.

According to HE Sheikh Faisal, the QBA also plans to leverage the university’s educational programmes and strategic research, particularly in fields like computer science, business administration, and information systems offered by CMU-Q, as well as its renowned colleges and research centres in the US.

Trick lauded the partnership, noting that it will contribute to the successful implementation of the NDS3, of which education and technology are key pillars. He highlighted CMU-Q’s commitment to utilising its research and technological capabilities to support this promising partnership, which will help develop innovative solutions to increase productivity across the private sector.

Furthermore, the collaboration aims to prepare a new generation of highly skilled professionals who are equipped to integrate into the labour market or launch successful ventures in the digital economy, supporting Qatar’s ambition to become a regional hub for innovation, Trick also pointed out.