The University of Doha for Science and Technology proudly hosted Skills Day 2026, one of the most anticipated co-curricular events of the academic year, reaffirming its commitment to experiential learning, innovation, real-world problem-solving, and collaborative learning. The event was sponsored by Qatar Petrochemical Company (QAPCO) Q.P.J.S.C., alongside Huawei and Cisco, and valued support from other sponsors.
Building on the success of previous editions, this year’s Skills Day brought together students from across the University in a dynamic showcase of applied education. The event featured 1000 students in 48 competitions, the majority of which were designed as team-based challenges, reflecting real-world professional environments where collaboration, communication, and collective problem-solving are essential.
Competitions were organized across all academic units, namely Engineering and Technology, Computing and Information Technology, Health Sciences, Business, General Education, and the Foundation Program.
Students engaged in a wide range of challenges spanning artificial intelligence and emerging technologies, cybersecurity and networking, data analytics and programming, engineering design and systems integration, healthcare simulations and clinical scenarios, as well as business case competitions, entrepreneurship challenges, and communication, critical thinking, and language skills.
These competitions were delivered in advanced labs and specialized facilities across campus, providing students with immersive, industry-aligned experiences that bridge theory and practice.
Dr. Salem Al-Naemi, President of UDST, highlighted the significance of the event, stating: “Skills Day is a true reflection of our experiential learning model. It demonstrates how our students translate knowledge into practice, working collaboratively to solve real-world challenges. These experiences are essential in preparing graduates who are equipped with both the technical expertise and the professional competencies required to thrive in a rapidly evolving global economy”.
Lyn Xiong, CEO of Huawei Qatar, said: “Our collaboration with UDST reflects a shared commitment to preparing future-ready talent through practical, industry-aligned learning. Through the Huawei ICT Academy, we equip students with globally recognized certifications, hands-on experience in AI, cloud, and connectivity, and opportunities like the Huawei ICT Competition. We value initiatives like Skills Day that strengthen the link between academia and industry, and we remain committed to empowering the next generation of digital leaders in Qatar.”
In addition to strengthening individual capabilities, Skills Day emphasized teamwork as a core pillar of success. By engaging students in collaborative competitions, UDST ensured the development of key interpersonal skills such as leadership, adaptability, and effective communication, all skills that are essential in today’s interconnected workforce. The event culminated in an awards ceremony recognizing outstanding student achievements across all competitions, celebrating excellence, innovation, and dedication.
Winners were honored with medals and certificates, reinforcing UDST’s mission to cultivate a vibrant, future-ready learning community.
Through Skills Day 2026, UDST continued to strengthen its role as a leading applied higher-education institution, empowering students with the skills, competencies, mindset, and experience needed to drive progress and contribute meaningfully to Qatar’s knowledge-based economy.
