16 Nov 2016

Qatar University (QU) and Gulf Organization for Industrial Consulting (GOIC) yesterday signed an agreement to establish strategic collaboration in diverse fields such as informatics and media, technical consulting, research, and training.

The agreement was signed by QU President Dr Hassan Al Derham and GOIC Secretary General H.E. Abdul-Aziz H Al-Ageel in the presence of QU VP for Academic Affairs Dr Mazen Hasna, QU VP for Research and Graduate Studies Dr Mariam Al-Maadeed, and QU VP for Student Affairs Dr Khalid Al-Khanji, Dr. Ali Bin Hamed Al-Mulla, GOIC Assistant Secretary General for Industrial Projects Sector, Mr. Shamlan H O Al Jeheidli, GOIC Assistant Secretary General for Industrial Information & Studies Sector, as well as QU faculty and staff and GOIC staff.

In the terms of the agreement, both institutions will provide technical, administrative and financial consulting and assessment for the implementation of small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and share technical information, sessions and statistic data in the field of economy and industry. The agreement also covers collaborative studies in the field of petrochemical, metal, pharmaceutical and food industries, technical diagnostic studies to define the various opportunities and challenges that SMEs face, and research and field surveys on industrial strategies and policies with the aim to develop the industrial sector in the GCC.

Both institutions will also cooperate in providing joint conferences, seminars, and workshops, as well as internships and training for QU students.

Commenting on the agreement, Dr Hassan Al Derham said: “The establishment of partnerships with local, regional, and international institutions is a key priority at QU. Last year, the university signed around 46 MoUs because we believe that the exchange of knowledge and experiences is an essential component to promote research and to fulfill the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030 and the national aspirations towards a knowledge-based economy. Our collaboration with GOIC will contribute to enhancing the local industry and to providing valuable data, research outcomes, and consulting services that will serve the public and private sectors in Qatar.”

H.E. Abdul-Aziz H Al-Ageel noted that GCC governments are making substantial progress in diversifying the industrial sector away from energy-based and petrochemical industries. He also noted that the innovative R&D capabilities and the highly skilled workforce in the Gulf countries are vital factors to enhancing the GCC industries.” He added: “GOIC is committed to strengthening links between GCC industries and R&D centers and universities. The organization is currently establishing a database of GCC R&D capabilities in line with the needs of industry. In this regard, we are looking forward to strengthening our collaboration with Qatar University and other GCC R&D centers and universities.”

-Ends-

Media enquiries to Hanine Taouk
+974 4403 3048
hmat@qu.edu.qa

About Qatar University (QU):
Qatar University is one of the leading institutions of academic and research excellence in the GCC region.  It provides high quality undergraduate and graduate programs that prepare competent graduates, primed to shape the future of Qatar.  The organization's strong relationship with Qatari society is reflected in its community service efforts and in its vibrant research portfolio that addresses relevant local and regional challenges, advances national goals towards a knowledge-based economy, and contributes actively to the needs and aspirations of the society.

www.qu.edu.qa

About Gulf Organization for Industrial Consulting (GOIC):
GOIC is a regional organization that brings together the United Arab Emirates, the Kingdom of Bahrain, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Sultanate of Oman, the State of Qatar, the State of Kuwait and the Republic of Yemen. It is based in Doha, Capital City of Qatar. It is an advisory knowledge-based institution aiming at developing regional industries by providing data, information, specialized researches, consultations and technical services for the public and private sectors in GCC countries. This organization is the top industrial consultations expertise hub boosting industrial development in GCC countries and Yemen. It seeks industrial integration and coordination between Member States and endeavours to shape a regional industrial policy.   

For media inquiries, kindly contact:
Abir Jaber
Business Development Specialist/ "Industrial Cooperation in the Arabian Gulf" Magazine Editor-in-Chief
Head of Mass Communication & Media Production Unit
Gulf Organization for Industrial Consulting (GOIC)
Main: +974 44858888 
Direct: +9744 4858717
Fax: +974 4413 8327
Email: aajaber@goic.org.qa
P.O. Box 5114, Doha, State of Qatar
www.goic.org.qa

© Press Release 2016