Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), a member of Qatar Foundation (QF), has welcomed incoming and returning students, staff, and faculty, to a new, hopeful academic year 2021/2022 under the overarching theme “Hayakom at HBKU”. 

More than 300 new students have started their academic adventure within the HBKU community’s six colleges. HBKU marks a return to in-person learning for the first time since the pandemic prompted a switch to online learning.

The university offers 34 programs and provides a rich and rewarding journey that enhances students’ knowledge and skill set. HBKU’s multidisciplinary programs equip them to become future leaders who can contribute to the development of their societies as well as supporting Qatar in its research and innovation ecosystem. 

HBKU Student Affairs rolled out a virtual student orientation to familiarize students with the university and its resources. A series of information sessions were held, highlighting the support available to meet students’ academic and personal goals. Academic advisors guided first-semester students through the university’s interdisciplinary academic programs.

In his message to students, HBKU President Dr. Ahmad M. Hasnah said: “Today is the start of your engagement with HBKU. Learning is a dialogue and we urge all of you to benefit from interaction with your professors, researchers, and peers. We encourage you to take your ideas and try to make a change, whether in the field of science, in your society, within your community, or family. HBKU will support your academic and personal development and provide you with the means to enhance your entrepreneurship, understanding, and capability. Throughout your HBKU journey, we urge you to look at all the challenges we face globally and as a country through the lens of innovation, and how we can contribute to solving those issues.”

HBKU is celebrating 10 years since its founding as a research-intensive university, a proud milestone for the country, QF, and HBKU faculty, staff, students, and alumni who have shaped the organization. HBKU strives to empower students and engage alumni to develop skills and competencies through diverse, multidisciplinary educational and social learning opportunities. 

Highlighting his vision for the new academic year, Dr. Michael J. Benedik, Provost, said: “What is unique at HBKU is the ability to synthesize information and utilize it to solve a problem. We have designed our programs and classroom experiences to provide our students with this skill set, which is different from what they get at most other universities. At HBKU, our expectation is that our students will leave as innovators and problem solvers. Many of them will help solve social problems, while others will leave as entrepreneurs directly impacting the economy both locally and globally.” 

In her message to the student body, Dr. Maryam Al-Mannai, Vice President for Student Affairs, said: “On behalf of the Student Affairs team, I am delighted to extend a warm welcome to our new and returning students for the upcoming academic year. You are about to embark on a journey that will lead you through thought-provoking academic challenges and a vibrant social network alongside a diverse community of students and educators. Nevertheless, the most transformative experiences await you beyond the boundaries of the classroom. We – the Student Affairs team – are here to support and guide your personal development throughout your academic journey. Your passions, interests, and pursuits will doubtlessly mature within HBKU’s culture of interactive exchange and mutual respect.”

HBKU develops interdisciplinary academic programs and national research capabilities that drive collaboration with the world’s best institutions, prepare future leaders with an entrepreneurial mindset and shape novel solutions for positive, global impact. 

For information on the academic and research programs, please visit hbku.edu.qa

Related Links:

Hamad Bin Khalifa University Alumni Reflect on Transformative Graduate Education Experiences

Q&A: Dr. Michael J. Benedik Provost, Hamad Bin Khalifa University