University of Calgary in Qatar holds first in-person convocation since start of pandemic

The University of Calgary in Qatar (UCQ) hosted its 2022 convocation ceremony on June 15, 2022 to mark the official graduation of the Class of 2022. Hosted under the patronage of Her Excellency Ms. Buthaina Al Nuaimi, the minister of education and higher education, the 2022 convocation took place at the St. Regis Doha Hotel. 

In attendance were several dignitaries and guests including: His Excellency Dr. Sheikh Khalid bin Jabr Al Thani, chairman of the Board of Trustees, University of Calgary in Qatar; Dr. Ibrahim bin Saleh Al Nuaimi, undersecretary of the Ministry of Education and Higher Education; Ms. Deborah Yedlin, chancellor of the University of Calgary; Dr. Maryam Ahmed Al-Rashid, head of academic affairs and consultant family medicine, Primary Health Care Corporation; Dr. William Ghali, vice-president (research), University of Calgary; Dr. Deborah White, dean and professor, University of Calgary in Qatar; Dr. Amy Dambrowitz, registrar, University of Calgary; Dr. Janaka Ruwanpura, vice-provost and associate vice-president research (international), University of Calgary. 

UCQ’s first in-person convocation since the start of the pandemic commemorated 133 graduates and undergraduates who received their degrees and designations in front of their families, friends, board members and partners.

Deborah Yedlin, William Ghali, Sheikh Khalid bin Jabr Al Thani, Deborah White  and the convocation guest speaker, Maryam Ahmed Al-Rashid, addressed the graduates during the event. Many of the speakers discussed the achievements and milestones students have accomplished despite the many challenges and uncertainty due to the pandemic. The speeches were followed by a heartfelt video that celebrated a key milestone in UCQ’s journey — 15 years of providing excellence in nursing education in Qatar, 15 years of UCQ.

Sheikh Khalid bin Jabr Al Thani addressed graduates for their remarkable achievements over the years: “I am pleased to be among you today to celebrate this joyous occasion, an opportunity to reflect on a long journey of outstanding achievements that have contributed to the growth and enhancement of the health-care landscape in Qatar. Today, we celebrate the many accomplishments of our graduates and the relentless efforts they have exhibited to bring positive change to our societies. Congratulations and best wishes on all your future endeavours.”

In her opening remarks, Dean White addressed graduating students: “Today is a great day of celebration, a day filled with emotion, pride, and excitement. We know that this academic journey has been a tedious one with many difficult twists and turns but through it all, you were diligent and determined, and here you are today. As you prepare to take on new stages of your career, remember, it is through your advocacy, integrity, and knowledge that you will make a difference — a difference to patients and families, to community and to health system delivery. 

"I am confident that each of you will make valuable contributions to health care in Qatar; and know that we will all be cheering you on along the way.” Dr. Deborah also conveyed her sincere gratitude to Her Highness Sheikha Moza Bint Nasser, to His Highness, the Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, and to the State of Qatar for continuously supporting UCQ and nursing education.

Maryam Ahmed Al-Rashid, the convocation guest speaker, gave an impassioned speech during the ceremony where she highlighted the achievements of graduates and said, “I'm truly pleased to be joining you in celebrating this wonderful occasion. Today’s graduation is evidence of how persistence and perseverance can pay off, as you graduate and take on new challenges. Graduating Class of 2022, you are well-equipped with one of the most important tools needed to support Qatar National Vision’s (QNV) 2030 call for a comprehensive world-class health-care system to respond to the country’s current and future health care needs. Congratulations UCQ nurses and best of luck in all your future endeavours.”

Guided by the Qatar National Vision 2030, UCQ continuously aims to educate nurses who will be part of a sustainable workforce — a workforce that contributes to the economic, social and health priorities for the State of Qatar.