Doha: Qatar University (QU) organized the Annual Research Forum and Exhibition 2025, featuring broad participation from researchers, academics, students, and partners from within and outside QU, under the sponsorship of several national institutions.
According to Qatar News Agency, this year, the forum focused on showcasing the latest research and scientific outputs addressing global issues with innovative solutions rooted in local contexts, aligning with the university’s commitment to enhancing the role of scientific research in sustainable development, in accordance with Qatar National Vision 2030.
HE Minister of Education and Higher Education, Lolwah bint Rashid bin Mohammed Al Khater underscored the importance of investing in research and education as fundamental pillars of progress. In her speech on the occasion, Her Excellency said, “Universities play a crucial role in empowering communities and building capacities key objectives of our national vision, which align with QU’s strategies. The university has provided all necessary resources to empower youth, who represent the cornerstone of progress and the heartbeat of development. Investing in them guarantees a brighter future”.
She also highlighted Qatar’s role in supporting distressed communities, stating, “Qatar has swiftly mobilized to aid crisis-stricken communities, launching developmental and educational initiatives, ensuring safe havens, health services, education, protection, and psychological and financial support for millions of children, women, and youth. This has resulted in remarkable regional and global humanitarian success.
In this context, Her Excellency indicated that the Education Above All Foundation one of the world’s leading education and development organizations has provided quality educational programs to more than 17.2 million children and youth across over 65 countries.
Al Khater added, “It is our collective responsibility as academics, researchers, and policymakers to continue supporting youth and providing them with an environment that meets their needs not only to be part of the present but to lead the future. Science, research, and innovation are the keys to empowerment, enabling us to rise, build a resilient society, and confidently tackle contemporary challenges.”
For his part, President of QU Dr. Omar Al Ansari emphasized the university’s role in research, stating, “I am delighted to welcome you all to QU’s Annual Research Forum and Exhibition, a leading scientific event that embodies the university’s commitment to supporting research and innovation. This forum is not just a scientific gathering but a platform that brings together students, researchers, partners, and decision-makers to exchange knowledge and showcase pioneering research achievements.” He added, “The continuity of this event reflects the university’s vision and mission in supporting national priorities, advancing excellence in research, education, and community service, ensuring that this academic institution remains a beacon of innovation and a key partner in Qatar’s scientific and economic advancement”.
Dr. Al Ansari highlighted that the forum’s objectives align with Qatar National Vision 2030, stating, “Qatar seeks to empower society and achieve sustainable development through scientific research, implementing projects and initiatives that address challenges, positioning itself as a leader in crisis resolution, recovery, and reconstruction efforts.” In this regard, Vice President for Research and Graduate Studies at QU Prof. Aiman Erbad delivered a comprehensive presentation on research and graduate studies activities at the university, highlighting its achievements over the past years.
Prof. Erbad also discussed advanced research projects within the research and graduate studies sector, such as the inauguration of the Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Unit at the Laboratory Animal Research Center (LARC) and the Genetic Diversity of Palm Trees project at the Agricultural Research Station. He reaffirmed the university’s commitment to building an inspiring educational and research infrastructure that serves the nation and enlightens future generations.
The forum also featured the opening of the Research Exhibition and Poster Exhibition, where researchers and students showcased their various scientific and research projects in various fields.
The forum featured high-level discussion sessions addressing key topics, including “The University and the Strategy for Community Empowerment,” and “The Future of Education, Research, and Innovation in Crisis-Affected Areas”.
The forum concluded with an awards ceremony, recognizing winners of the Research Excellence Awards, QU Innovation Award, and special awards for research posters and the National Committee for the Prohibition of Weapons, honoring outstanding research contributions that developed innovative solutions to benefit society.
The Annual Research Forum and Exhibition 2025 reaffirmed its role as a strategic platform for supporting scientific research and innovation, fostering academic dialogue, and strengthening collaboration between researchers and various stakeholders, solidifying QU’s position as a leading research institution locally and internationally.