As part of its mission to stimulate intellectual debates on Islam, the College of Islamic Studies (CIS) at Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) is to host a public lecture on The Role of Awqaf in Supporting the Social, Economic and Cultural Welfare of Qatari Society.

The lecture, to be presented by Dr Sheikh Khalid bin Mohammed Al Thani, director-general of the General Department of Awqaf at the Ministry of Endowments (Awqaf) and Islamic Affairs, will introduce the concept of Waqf, or charitable endowment, and consider how it has contributed to the multidimensional development in Qatar, and its key elements to promoting national well-being. Discussions will focus on the country’s six Islamic financial institutions including: the Waqf bank for righteousness and piety; Waqf bank for the service of the Qur'an and Sunnah; Waqf bank for the service of mosques; Waqf bank for family and child welfare; Waqf bank for scientific and cultural development; and Waqf bank for health care, while examining their active presence in society.

The lecture will also discuss the mechanisms of Waqf governance in Qatar, modern-day Waqf projects, as well as investment methods and future prospects for the development of the Waqf sector as a key pillar for community advancement.

Speaking ahead of the event, Dr. Mohammed El Gammal, associate professor at CIS, said: “The lecture aims to re-emphasize the foundational importance of Waqf in Qatar, and the effectiveness of current policies that have led to the increase in the number of Waqfs and financial endowments, as well as their efforts to support the recipients of Waqf. Furthermore, the lecture explores the mandates of Qatar’s six endowment banks and their impact in the social, economic and cultural spheres. "

CIS works regularly with the Ministry of Endowments (Awqaf) and Islamic Affairs to support academic debates on the role of Waqf as a mechanism for sustained national prosperity. Last year, the college hosted the CIS-QFC Global Conference on Awqaf to explore the historical and contemporary overviews of Waqf and its socio-economic impacts; Waqf’s models and management system performance; and the applicability of Waqf to the blockchain era. 

CIS hosts public lectures and conferences to promote a deeper understanding of the various aspects of Islam among the wider community. The lecture aligns with the colleges aims to address topics with high applicability to the modern-day needs of Muslim societies. 

The Role of Awqaf in Supporting the Social, Economic and Cultural Welfare of Qatari Society public lecture will take place from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm on September 11 at the Auditorium, Minaretein (College of Islamic Studies building).

The lecture will be held in Arabic. For more information, or to register to attend, please visit hbku.edu.qa