DOHA: As the country's demand for knowledge increases, research and world class education in the field of engineering becomes a valuable component to enhance the economy.
Such initiatives taken by the Texas A&M University Qatar (Tamuq) were highly appreciated by senior government officials yesterday at an event held at the Education City under the patronage of H E Abdullah bin Hamad Al Attiyah, the Deputy Premier and Chief of the Emiri Diwan.
"Conducting world class relevance research and all the activities done by Tamuq are directly towards the heart of our economy. Our economy is based on industries related to oil and gas and petrochemicals," said H E Dr Mohammed bin Saleh Al Sada, Minister of Energy and Industry, speaking at 'Shukran from Texas A&M Qatar' an annual event organised by the University.
"The world-class education offered at Tamuq has produced exceptional engineers, who are currently prospering in Qatar and internationally. Supporting education in our community is a duty for each of us."
"We are the biggest beneficiary of Texas A&M," he said.
'Shukran from Texas A&M Qatar' organised by the Office of Student and Community Relations (OSCR) at the university was sponsored by Qatar Petrochemical Company (QAPCO), recognised and thanked its partners in industry, government and the local community that supported the university during the past year.
"Hand in hand, we work towards our mutual goal of educating and inspiring the youth and paving the way to a bright future for our people. I have been a part of Texas A&M University Qatar since 2003 and have watched five graduating classes enter in the world of engineering. I look forward to witnessing and being part of many such future successes with Texas A&M at Qatar," said the Deputy Premier.
Local leaders including Eng Ahmad Al Jolo, chairman of the Qatar Society of Engineers, and Dr Sheikha Al Missned, president of Qatar University also attended the event, in addition to CEOs and general managers from local corporations.
Dr Mark Weichold, Dean and CEO of Tamuq said: "Our mission is strongly tied to the local industry, government and community members whom we recognise and thank at this event. Through building closer ties to these entities, the University is better able to develop exemplary engineers, generate new knowledge and serve the needs of Qatar. The past year has seen remarkable progress towards fulfilling this mission, as evidenced by important steps such as the opening of the university's graduate studies programme."
In addition to recognising officials and institutions, the annual Aggie award presented to the company that offered the greatest support to Texas A&M Qatar througout the previous year was given to the Qatar Petrochemical Company (Qapco).
© The Peninsula 2011
