University of Calgary in Qatar holds introductory school visits in collaboration with Ministry of Education and Higher Education

The University of Calgary in Qatar (UCQ) hosted approximately 200 students in a series of introductory school visits, launched in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Higher Education. The initiative is a major step into showcasing nursing studies and educating students about the importance of scientific and technological disciplines for meeting the needs of the Qatar labour market, thus achieving the goals and objectives of the Qatar National Vision (QNV) 2030. The informative and interactive visits took place on Oct. 20 and 21 at UCQ’s campus and welcomed boys and girls from 10 different schools. 

“We are very excited to collaborate with the Ministry of Education and Higher Education on this great initiative to introduce our programs and showcase the significant role that we play in educating and preparing the future nurse leaders in Qatar,” explains Dr. Deborah White, dean and professor, University of Calgary in Qatar.

This initiative presents a great opportunity for UCQ to motivate young students and give them a clear idea of what it means to become a nurse and the instrumental role that nurses play in supporting the country’s health vision and aspirations. 

The introductory school visits included a tour of the campus and a series of workshops and presentations by White and the Student and Enrolment Services team. Participating students engaged in interactive sessions and experimental activities as they explored UCQ’s Experiential Learning Centre, Simulation Centre and laboratory. Sessions and tours were held in smaller groups and social distancing measures were implemented in line with COVID-19 precautionary procedures and protocols.

Commenting on the initiative, Director of Student and Enrolment Services Dr. Mohamoud Adam says, “It was wonderful having the students on our campus. The State of Qatar is fortunate to have such talented and gifted students in their education system and future labour market. I would like to thank the Ministry of Education and Higher Education for launching this successful initiative.”

This initiative is a major step into promoting the new college majors that will fulfill the needs of the job market in the 22nd century. The Ministry of Education and Higher Education, represented by the Academic and Career Counselling office – Department of Educational Guidance in the Education Affairs Sector, has launched the initiative in partnership with leading universities and educational institutions to showcase the wide range of science and technology programs offered in Qatar with a focus on encouraging students to choose scientific and technological tracks and disciplines.

Mr. Ahmed Nasser Al-Balam, department head at The Ministry of Education and Higher Education, expressed his gratitude to all the participating schools: “The Minister of Education and Higher Education has launched this initiative to introduce students to the various scientific and technological disciplines and professions. I would like to thank the University of Calgary in Qatar for its continued collaboration and for giving students the opportunity to learn more about nursing which is one of the most in-demand professions in Qatar.” Al-Balam added that this initiative aims to help preliminary students discover their interests and skills and encourage Qatari students to enrol in the scientific disciplines to fulfil the needs of the local market.