The College of Science and Engineering (CSE) at Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) is committed to making a sustainable impact in Qatar and beyond through a range of new programs introduced in recent years.  

Students comprising the first cohort from three new programs in computer engineering, sustainable energy, and sustainable environment graduated on May 4 armed with the knowledge and skills to tackle national challenges and make lasting contributions in their chosen fields. 

Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering student, Safiya Jan, is hoping to use her passion for math and science to contribute Qatar’s engineering landscape. 

“I was always interested in math and science as a child and I always knew that I wanted to go into a field where I would be continuously exposed to both fields, so engineering was an obvious choice for me.”

As a student at HBKU – an academic institution that underscores the importance of research and collaborative opportunities – Safiya was exposed to a number of research opportunities, which served to enhance the theoretical aspect of her studies, offering an opportunity to gain sought-after practical experience.  

“In my junior year, I was involved in the Undergraduate Research Experience program with Dr. Amine Bermak – one of the professors at CSE. We carried out research on smart wearing sensing devices utilizing embedded processing. This project was a great opportunity for me to hone my research skills and create a practical solution for a real-world problem.”

The knowledge and research experience provided through the Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering program has reaffirmed Safiya’s passion for her chosen field. The graduate plans to pursue graduate studies in Computer Engineering abroad. 

For Waqas Nawaz, who is part of the first cohort graduating from CSE’s PhD in Sustainable Energy, the wealth of opportunities afforded by HBKU’s multidisciplinary programs coupled with the backing and support of the faculty, has seen the student take part in projects that are directly contributing to Qatar’s strategic goals. 
 
“In one of my most recent projects, I co-authored a book with my supervisor, Dr. Muammer Koc from CSE’s sustainable development division. The book is highly relevant to the Qatar National Development Strategy and Qatar National Vision 2030." 
 
“The book addresses the rapidly growing interest in economic diversification through partnerships between industries, universities, government, and intermediaries with a particular focus on the knowledge ecosystem in Qatar.” 
 
Waqas was initially drawn to the program as he realized the immense impact he could have in addressing many of Qatar’s grand challenges which are pertinent to the sustainable development of the country.

“Studying at HBKU has benefitted me tremendously as there are no disciplinary boundaries. We were able to explore the fields that are closest to our strengths and interests, which is great because we have come to a point in the global society where our challenges are not physics, chemistry, and math anymore; these are climate change, clean water, and food security. The disciplines are changing, and we have to think broadly. And that's what HBKU enables its students to do.”

Like Waqas, Jaber Sadiqe Al-Khori, comprising the first cohort of CSE’s PhD in Computer Science and Engineering, found the support of faculty and the free rein to pursue research relating to his specific interests invaluable to his academic journey at HBKU. 

“My supervisor supported me throughout my PhD journey at HBKU and encouraged my interest in physical layer security for hybrid radio frequency/visible light communication.  The knowledge I gained during my graduate studies has pushed me one step closer to becoming an expert in my field, and has allowed me to explore cutting-edge solutions to computer engineering challenges in Qatar.”